Whey protein is the most popular supplement for weight gain, which many gym-lovers and bodybuilders often use after the workout session. While having many benefits, the safety of using protein regularly is quite debatable. The thing is that not everyone needs extra protein in their diet. What’s more, many people simply don’t calculate their nutritional needs before using this powder.
Firstly, let’s make it clear WHO needs an additional portion of protein shake. Protein itself is a healthy macronutrient that builds up our body and helps us feel full for a longer period of time. Protein supplementation helps to repair damaged muscles and recover quicker after the workout.
But let’s be honest here, most gym-goers intake it to grow their muscles faster. Yeh, it helps yet what is the right amount of its daily intake? For women, it’s 46 g per day when for men, it’s around 55 g. If during the day you eat a lot of vegetables and fruit that literally can’t contain enough protein, then consuming its extra dose is ok. But the thing is that most people intake enough protein from simple food which in combination with protein powder may lead to side effects.
In 2013, one research showed that excessive intake of protein supplements leads to kidney and liver damage while ruining calcium balance in your body. Hence, it causes acne flare-ups and inflammation. Actually, you fuel your body with external hormones and bioactive peptides which can’t go unnoticed with time.
What’s more, protein powder is considered to have an unbalanced nutrient composition when compared with natural products like chicken breast or eggs. Therefore, you may suffer from damaged gut microbiota. Some people who consume protein powder have problems such as stomach cramps, bloating, and gas. Plus, don’t mention the fact that you may be allergic to the protein or intolerant to lactose. Yet it’s super easy to fill your bottle with protein shake rather than spend time in the kitchen cooking one more meal, don’t accidentally change your health on an easy way to gain weight.