7 Protein Myths – BUSTED!
We have all heard this one: Protein diets are the best to follow if you want to lose weight. How many of us know what this really entails? Let’s find out. If you are gearing up to a month-long diet consisting only proteins, you should know about the following myths!
1. Protein is best consumed right after a workout
False. To be fair though, it does keep you from feeling hungry, but more so if you have your protein intake paced out through the day. It is true that that protein intake right after a workout accelerates protein synthesis and helps to limit muscle breakdown thus helping your body recover faster with fewer aches and pain after training.
2. Protein is just for bodybuilders
Wrong. While it is true that protein promotes muscle mass, it plays an important part in your exercises because of its recovery properties. Protein works directly to repair the muscles after exercise has caused minor tears. This is true for everyone, not just bodybuilders.
3. Protein boosts the immune system
True. People who have a lower protein intake suffer from low immunity. Thus to boost your immune system, one should have enough proteins to provide the 11 amino acids that are not prepared by our body.
4. High-Protein diets affect your kidneys adversely
False. Our kidneys play the part of a filter for the byproducts of protein breakdown. If healthy, consuming more proteins should not damage your kidneys. However, if you are suffering from any kind of kidney disease, you should consult your doctor before starting on a high-protein diet.
5. Is this too much protein?
Yes. Ideally, we should only be consuming about 30-35 percent of calories from protein. Depending on only protein for your everyday nutritional intake, however, is not ideal. We are robbing our bodies of other essential nutrients like carbs, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals. This can lead to complications you do not want to deal with.
6. Avocado, Chia Seeds and Hummus Are Packed With Protein
False. We all know how much avocado, chia seeds, and hummus are hyped up as this century’s health foods! But in fact, one medium-sized avocado contains only 4-5 grams of protein. Chia seeds contribute just 3-4 grams of protein to your smoothies. And 300 grams of hummus will give you as much protein as a grilled chicken breast. So you see, these aren’t the best protein contributors to your meals.
7. Protein Bars – Good substitute?
Not a good idea. Protein bars are packed with ingredients that do more harm to your body than good. They mess up your gut, causes inflammation, artificial coloring and sweeteners.
In conclusion, food fads are real. Most of us don’t always question everything we consume, and that can lead to a lot of misinformation. It is always better to consult experts when it comes to switching our diets and making healthier choices.