7 Biggest Protein Myths Busted

It is high time to put these age-old rumours to rest.

MYTH 1: PROTEIN IS PROTEIN- All protein is the same

No, there are so many types of protein at the molecular level (whey, casein, isolate, etc.) For instance: Quick-release proteins like Whey Protein hit the muscles at a faster rate and are therefore quintessential for post/ intra-workout. Sustained-release proteins like Casein have a slower rate of absorption, hence recommended for intake at night.

MYTH 2: A LOT OF PROTEIN IS HARD ON THE KIDNEY

Unless you are on a dialysis or devouring a full tub of protein powder each day, your kidneys will be fine. But, you need to drink a lot of water when you are digesting a lot of protein. You should drink a lot of water anyway. If your metabolism is weak, you should go for a plant-based protein, which is mild and soft on the digestive system as it doesn’t comprise of any dairy element. A few protein powders also come with digestive enzymes to further promote digestion.

MYTH 3: PROTEIN IS DANGEROUS FOR KIDS

No, kids need protein. Once the children are out of their infancy stage, they grow rapidly and develop new muscle tissues. So, they actually need more protein at this time as their metabolism rate is igniting faster than it ever will.

MYTH 4: WEIGHT-LOSS GUARANTEE WITH PROTEIN

If you are not an active protein user, your body can break-down excess protein into molecular substrates that’ll end up going through glycolysis just like carbs. And if you’re not using it, it will end up at the same place. So you will get gains, but in your gut.

MYTH 5: COOKED PROTEIN IS A WASTE

Seriously; you can’t drive the protein out of your protein powder by cooking it. If you really want to be creative, bake a few protein cupcakes, muffins or cookies with your protein powder, they’ll have as much protein punch as your protein shake.

MYTH 6: PROTEIN IS ONLY FOUND IN MEAT

Legumes, whole grains, tofu, and vegetables, etc. are excellent sources of protein and they don’t have health risks like those involved with meat and other animal products. Lentils and Split peas for example are rich in protein (16g protein/1 cup) and are cholesterol-free.

MYTH 7: ONLY BODYBUILDERS OR ATHLETES NEED PROTEIN

According to a study, athletes undeniably do require extra protein to speed-up the muscle recovery process, enhance strength, meet their increased calorie requirements, etc. Since they work up their muscles during exercise, there is tearing down of muscle tissues. Protein helps the body to repair and rebuild damaged tissues. They’re the building-blocks of body tissue and also serve as a fuel source. So, by consuming varied, whole-food diet, you will not have trouble meeting your daily protein requirements. Not consuming protein at all or consuming less protein results in loss of muscles or tissues.