The DL on Protein

If you're trying to get "big," my guess is you're probably consuming a lot of protein in the hopes that you'll gain more muscle mass.

Hmm, you may want to think again!

I previously posted about carbohydrates being the body's preferred form of energy, which is why it's not necessary to consume an excessive amount of protein. When you exercise regularly, your body's recommended intakes increase in all areas (carbs, protein, fat) in order to provide sufficient energy to preform your workout.

Most people still think high protein diet = increased muscle mass.

Not exactly!

There are actually dangers of high protein diets, and here are some of them:

• increases body water loss (your body's way of trying to remove the nitrogen waste from breaking down the protein)
• the above leads to an increased risk of dehydration
• which leads to increased mineral losses
• high protein diets can be high in saturated and total fat (which could contribute to obesity, some cancers, osteoporosis, and heart disease if you're not careful)

Some take single amino acid supplements, which may seem beneficial, however this could impair absorption of other amino acids. Plus, there is actually more amino acids available in food than the supplements. And, don't forget about the cost of these supplements!

So, high protein diets really aren't necessary because the requirement for athletes and highly active people is only a tad bit higher than sedentary people; it's still within the normal range.

Again, here are some good sources of food protein:

lean beef and pork

egg whites

low fat dairy products

turkey

fish

legumes (beans)

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