In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, the need to consume adequate protein has surged. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, apart from maintaining overall health and energy levels.
According to experts, it is important to include protein-rich foods in your diet—vital to meeting your body's requirements in a fast-paced environment. And so, despite increased knowledge and awareness, protein myths continue to circulate. It is important to know the correct information and dispel some myths to keep you informed about your diet.
“Protein supplements are usually considered a body-building nutrient; rather, protein intake needs to be prioritized as it is an essential component of our muscles, bones, hair, joints, hormones, and enzymes,” Edwina Raj, Head of Services, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, told Times Now.
It supports our immune health and most importantly, protein is necessary for healing and recovery from illness. “Adequate protein helps to prevent muscle loss, which plays an integral part in our body's metabolism and weight management. Including protein sources in your every meal matters to control your hunger pangs,” she added.
Experts say protein supplements that have been medically tested should be included as advised by a qualified Dietit as there are a plethora of protein supplements with different compositions and prescribed only for short duration based on health conditions and lab parameters.

Myths associated with protein

The most common and persistent myth around protein powders is that all supplements available are infused with steroids to result in artificial muscle building.
“There are many who continue to believe that there could be multiple side effects of consuming the supplements on a healthy person. But the fact is, one merely needs to make the right choice while buying the protein powder,” said Suhel Vats, Founder and Director of BigMuscles Nutrition.
Seth said many other myths surround protein, like the popular belief that protein is meant only for those who want to build their bodies. “The truth is that rather than only the muscular hunks, these protein supplements support even those who work out solely for fitness or those banking on workouts for recovery from injuries,” he added.
Another popular myth that goes around says that protein is beneficial only for men. Though men and women have different body types and needs, the importance of protein for an individual, regardless of gender, remains the same. However, women also need adequate protein to support muscle growth, repair, and overall health. Both men and women should include protein-rich foods such as lean meat, eggs, dairy products, and legumes in their diets to fulfil their nutritional requirements.