Popular Protein Myths Debunked

Every food we eat is composed of protein, carbohydrates, or fat, and these macronutrients all have essential roles in maintaining health. Protein is beneficial, but it is one of the most misunderstood macronutrients. Though most individuals understand protein is used to build new cells, there are still many myths floating around. Any time you step into a gym or start a diet, you end up hearing a lot of faulty information about protein. It is crucial to understand where protein comes from and how it works to use protein properly. If you are interested in staying healthy or getting fit, avoid falling for these common protein myths.

More Protein Means More Muscle

It is true your body requires protein to build muscle tissue. However, this does not mean you can eat more and more protein and build more muscle without any effort, as your body does not directly convert your protein intake into muscle. Instead, muscles are built through a lengthy process. You have to exercise those muscles to build them. If you are eating protein while remaining sedentary, the body will mostly just use protein for the energy needed to run your organs and keep your body functioning, and any excess will turn into fat and cause weight gain. Even if you are exercising, it is not possible to eat huge amounts of protein and get massive muscles instantly. Your ability to build more muscle will be limited by the types of exercise you do and your genetics.

Continue reading to learn about how all protein may not be equal.

All Protein Is Equal

Just about everything from meat to vegetables contains a little bit of protein. However, this does not mean all protein is equal. You are not always eating the same type of protein whenever you eat a product containing protein. When we talk about protein, we are actually talking about a collection of amino acids. There are nine different types of amino acids the human body needs to function properly. Animal-based sources of protein, like fish, poultry, pork, and beef, contain all of these essential amino acids. However, plant-based sources do not always contain all of the amino acids the body needs. It is possible for those on a vegetarian diet to get adequate protein, but they may need to take a little more time in planning their diet and combining vegetarian protein sources to get the right type of protein and the appropriate amounts.

Continue reading to learn about a myth related to the amount of protein a person should consume for health.