The Pros and Cons of Protein Powder: Is It Necessary for Your Fitness Goals?
Protein powder is a dietary supplement that is commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders to help build muscle and recover from workouts. It is made from a variety of sources, including whey, casein, soy, pea, and hemp, and it is usually taken in the form of a shake or smoothie.
There are many benefits to using protein powder, including:
Convenience: Protein powder is easy to use and can be quickly and easily added to shakes, smoothies, and other foods to boost protein intake.
Increased protein intake: Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, and many people find it difficult to consume enough protein through diet alone. Protein powder can be a convenient way to increase protein intake.
Recovery: Protein is important for muscle recovery after exercise, and supplementing with protein powder can help repair muscle tissue and reduce muscle soreness.
Satiety: Protein is known to help keep you feeling full, so consuming a protein-rich shake or smoothie can help control your appetite and promote weight loss.
However…
It is important to note that you can get enough protein from a balanced diet that includes lean meats, poultry, fish, legumes, dairy and eggs. If you are vegetarian or vegan, you can still get enough protein from plant-based sources like nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.
Along those lines, an over-reliance on protein powder can lead to an unbalanced diet, as it's important to get a variety of nutrients from different sources. It's important to check the label and be aware of the ingredients that are included in the protein powder, as some brands may include added sugars, artificial ingredients or other unnecessary ingredients.
Dr. Adam Kerr, PT, DPT, CNC.
Kerr Performance Inc.
Instagram: @Kerrperformance1