There are always various myths that surround nutrients and diets, some that have been quickly laid to rest and some that have been a little harder to shake. There are countless studies that are done each with different theories and different models of research. There are countless ways to perform a research study and countless ways to interpret the research findings. You can even skew numbers to fall your way if you so desire, so it is always very important to keep that in mind. Why would research be done to get a particular result? There are many reasons:
– To suit the purpose of the backers of the study
– To purposely create distrust or misinformation for an existing product
– To create confusion in the market
Studies that are backed by certain companies should be considered suspect especially if they are blatantly for their product or decidedly against competitors. For instance, a cereal company might show research that shows that the egg, the perfect source of protein is a dangerous food item and that you should only start your day off with their product.
Myths about different foods or nutrients can be difficult to dispel fully because of all of these conflicting research studies. They are done for safety of course, and the majority of research studies are valid, legitimate, and fairly performed and reported on. Just be aware that there are those that are done purely for marketing purposes.
There are research studies that are misquoted or have large portions omitted to suit the purpose of one group or another. It is to the best interest of everyone that these studies be read carefully- but not to base dietary or health decisions on them only. Anyone with any type of health concern should seek the advice of their doctor, especially when it comes to eating healthfully.
Protein has been the basis for a number of health myths. The original Atkins diet, the one that touted major amounts of protein and fat insisted on low carbohydrates, regardless of their source was thought to be the miracle of its time, a diet that was high in flavor and low in deprivation. However, it was quickly discovered that not only did the Atkins diet allow you to lose weight initially, it quickly led to higher cholesterol levels and carbohydrate cravings that were almost impossible to ignore. After all, what good was a bacon cheeseburger if you could not have the bun? A better diet came along (several actually) that increased protein, lowered the fat and put complex carbohydrates back in the diet where they belonged.
There are a number of other protein myths that will not die- despite a number of well researched studies that provide facts and figures to the contrary. These myths include:
Protein Causes or Worsens Osteoporosis
In this myth, the protein is the culprit in calcium loss – the more protein that is included in the diet, the more calcium is excreted through the urine. The original theory stated that the protein raises the acidity of the blood (acidemia). In response, the body will use minerals (including calcium) from its bone stores to buffer the blood and to bring the acidity back down. The problem: acidemia can be caused by increased lactic acid (metabolic acidemia) which is caused by intense or prolonged exercise. It is the buildup of lactic acid in the body that leads to soreness after a workout. The average person will not have this build up of lactic acid in their body on a typical day and so would not run a high risk of acidemia.
Protein plays a vital role in maintaining the pH balance of the blood in and of itself (Source: Nelson, 2009). Protein is also important in keeping the fluid balance. The old research said that increased protein caused faster calcium loss, but newer studies say that this is not the case. Higher protein diets are obviously not appropriate for everyone. The people who would benefit most from a high protein diet are the athletes who tend to have denser bones than the average person or the sedentary person.
There are a number of factors in place that cause osteoporosis, including overall diet, a lack of exercise, family history, and hormonal performance, (it is not just protein levels).
Myth: Protein Does Not Have Any Health Benefits
Protein has a number of very valid health benefits includes:
– Animal protein may increase bone density
– Soy protein may lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure (Source: Natural News)
– Whey protein may increase blood flow and vascular health (Source: The Whey may inhibit Protein Institute)
– Vegetarian proteins may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (Source: Brookshyer RD, CSR)
– Milk proteins may lower salt induced hypertension (Source: Daniels)
– Protein could protect the nerves and may help maintain nerve health (Source: Yorkshire Post 2010)
– Soy protein may help to prevent hepatic steatosis or fatty liver especially in diabetics (Source: Nutra.Ingredients.com 2005)
– Whey protein may increase glutathione which the growth of some types of cancer (Source: Dr. Badger)
Myth: Athletes Do Not Need Increased Protein
Studies have suggested that only the largest and most elite athletes need more than a gram of protein per kilogram of their body weight. However, other athletes might be missing out on beneficial protein as well as nutrition by sticking to this low amount of protein. New studies have shown that 1.76 grams of protein is the minimum amount of protein that is needed for athletes even at slightly lower amount of activity, however, this amount may be too high for those who are considered to be casual or occasional exercisers (Source Rivera).
Myth: Protein Supplements Have No Basis in a Healthy Diet
Protein supplements get a bad rap because of a number of the protein myths that will not die. However, there are a number of supplements that are not only beneficial but can work very well as an overall part of the healthy diet. Protein powders, which can be used in a number of ways, are one option while liquid protein supplement shots, like Profect from Protica is another. There are a number of benefits to Profect including:
– Convenience (each serving is pre-mixed and ready to consume)
– Portability: it is packaged in small, plastic vials that can go anywhere
– High quality protein: there are 25 grams of protein in 2.9 fluid ounce vial, 50 grams of protein in 3.4 fluid ounce vial and 200 grams of protein in a 10 fluid ounce bottle (Source: Protica).
– Low calories
– Additional nutrition including vitamin C and B complex
– Unique and delicious flavors: Fresh Citrus Berry, Cool Melon Splash, Blue Raspberry Swirl, Grapefruit Mango, Orange Pineapple, Ruby Melon Twist, Fuzzy Peach Nectar and Passion Fruit
Protica Research (Protica, Inc.) specializes in the development of Capsulized Foods. Protica manufactures Profect, IsoMetric, Pediagro, Fruitasia and over 100 other brands, including Medicare-approved, whey protein supplements for immunodeficiency patients. You can learn more at Protica Research – Copyright