The exact reason why diets like Atkins (high protein) promote weight loss is not well understood. But there are many anecdotal stories to support the idea that eating plenty of meat can result in losing weight.

Previous research has suggested there is link between significant protein consumption and reduced hunger pains. Indeed, Gilles Mithieux of Lyon University in France, head researcher of a new study, states that, “It is well known that protein feeding decreases hunger sensation and subsequent food intake in animals and humans.”

Researchers from the French research body INSERM, made the surprising discovery that diets high in protein spark glucose production in the small intestine. The study involving rats, demonstrated that significant protein consumption increased gene activity that leads to greater glucose production in the animals’ intestines.

The extra glucose was detected by the liver glucose-sensor which, in turn, triggered parts of the brain that reduced hunger pains and hence food intake. The underlying reasons why protein triggers glucose production still remains unknown, but researchers suspect that eating meat activates a chemical inside intestinal cells which prompts specific genes to produce glucose.

This research supports the idea that adding quality protein to your diet may help you lose weight.

Read more about the study here.