Why Is The Public Obsessed with Protein?

The public is obsessed with protein. Has it gone too far? I keep seeing more and more protein products pop up. They're adding protein to drinks, cereals, cookies and now even popcorn. But is it too much? Are we being overpromised?

Here's what eating more protein WON'T do:

1. Magically help you lose weight

2. Instantly add muscle to your physique

3. Suddenly cure your blood sugar issue

4. Automatically give you more energy or well-being

Here's what eating more protein might do (especially if you're not eating enough to begin with):

1. Help you feel a little more full which may or may not result in a calorie deficit for subtle weight loss overtime

2. Preserve lean muscle mass and potentially prevent muscle burning

3. Bolster blood sugar stability by adding more foods to your diet that don't cause glucose spikes

4. Contribute to proper nutritional balance and consumption to help you feel better overall with time

The average person needs around 15-25% of total calories from protein or roughly 0.8-1.5g of protein per 1 kg of body weight. Example: a 150 pound female can aim for around 70-75 grams per day. Optimal protein intake could be a little higher, especially if you're active, older or vegan. But your body doesn't store excess protein so if you over consume it, it's getting converted to energy (or fat) or you're peeing it out. 

Further, the best sources of protein come from consuming a variety of whole, fresh plant foods like beans, nuts, whole grains, tofu, etc, and animal foods such as wild fish, eggs, lean poultry/beef and dairy. 

Bottom line: Protein is not a magic cure for all health and weight problems. But if you're not eating enough, it could be a problem in itself.