How do you know the best ratio of protein, carbs and fats for you?  Is everyone the same?  It doesn’t even make sense that one plan would work for all bodies – we are just too different.

During my 15 years running a wellness clinic, I found that knowing a person’s Metabolic Profile was the best indicator of whether they could successfully go vegetarian or go higher protein and good fats.

If you go to our website (CherylTownsley.com), you will find a link to ‘Tools / Questionnaires’ on the home page.  Once you click, you will find the Metabolic Profile Questionnaire.  You can take this self-testing questionnaire, score it and determine if you are a Profile 1, 2 or 3.  (be sure to read the scoring information if your scores are within 5 points of each other).

Profile 2 is the most common Profile.

About 65% of the population fits a Profile 2. These people are rarely successful as vegetarians as they require more protein and good fats.  They     may experience being more easily stressed, low blood sugar and may even have hypoglycemia.  They tend to have wider mood swings, especially when they go too long without eating.

Children and adults in this profile are more often considered “ADD.”

Excessive carbohydrates will cause a quick rush of energy and then a crash and often keep excess weight on the body (especially in the mid-section).  Profile 2’s respond better to more of Paleo diet (higher in protein and good fats – – doesn’t all have to be animal), good fats (fish, eggs, coconut, etc.), and complex carbs (veggies, no simple carbs and only low-glycemic fruit such as berries).

I have found that having a good protein shake 1-2 times a day really helps me, as I am a Profile 2.  After fifteen years of doing protein shakes, my favorite by far is the Vi Shake as it tastes great, is affordable and has a lot of flexibility along with great nutrition and fiber!  Protein shakes, eating every 3 hours, regular snacks, nutrient-rich meals and adequate water can make a huge difference for a Profile 2.

Profile 3 is next.

Profile 3 is more balanced in their intake of proteins, fats and carbs.  In fact, a well-balanced diet and following their blood type food suggestions will usually help them the most.  Profile 3’s are still better avoiding sugar, high-glycemic foods, but they can skip a snack and not ‘fall apart’ like their Profile 2 friends!

Profile 1 is most rare.

Profile 1’s tend to use their food more slowly.  They may also have blood sugar imbalances, but they tend to dislike protein-rich foods.  They often have an inefficient endocrine system, so getting hormones balance becomes important for them.  They may also experience fatigue, exhaustion and a sense of coldness.  This is the group that can lean more towards being vegetarian.  They do better with a much higher intake of veggies, fruit (still avoid high-glycemic/sweet fruit when blood sugar is an issue).

Check out your metabolism – – – eat according to the ratio that best matches your body!