Protein Supplement Myth Revealed by Body of Work
Story Summary: Now, two more studies question a longstanding staple at the health store, protein supplements, usually sold as a powder with testosterone-fueled names like Muscle Max 500 or Mega Monster Mass. Such supplements are top sellers. But a growing body of research shows you dont need protein supplementation unless you are a professional-level athlete in intense training or perhaps gravely ill from starvation or a wasting disease, and even then the need would be a case-by-case call. You do need protein when you exercise, particularly when you try to build muscle through weightlifting or other forms of resistance training. Experts whey inA study published last month, in the journal Nutrition, surveyed more than 1,000 adults at 50 ordinary commercial gyms and found that nearly half the men were taking dietary supplements, largely protein powders, with no supervision. Similarly, a smaller study — a masters thesis by Martin Frechette from University of Montreal — probed the diets of elite athletes, part of the Canadian Sport Centre Dietary Study. A 2008 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Researchdocumented how protein supplements are common among high school athletes, who take the stuff largely on recommendation from coaches and friends under the misconception that protein equals strength. The reason is that unused protein cycles through the blood and ultimately breaks down into urea and acidic byproducts. These byproducts strain the kidneys as they filter through and likely trigger bone to release calcium. That protein alone is 400 calories, but usually other ingredients bump up the total to nearly 1,000 calories. Some bodybuilders feel they need a gram of protein per pound of body weight, depending on the intensity of the training. If you do use a supplement, then it is best during or just after a workout so that the damaged muscles can use that protein for repair….Read the Full Story
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- Protein needs governed by body weight | Freep.com | Detroit Free Press
