Popular Protein Myths Debunked

Every food we eat is composed of protein, carbohydrates, or fat, and these macronutrients all have essential roles in maintaining health. Protein is beneficial, but it is one of the most misunderstood macronutrients. Though most individuals understand protein is used to build new cells, there are still many myths floating around. Any time you step into a gym or start a diet, you end up hearing a lot of faulty information about protein. It is crucial to understand where protein comes from and how it works to use protein properly. If you are interested in staying healthy or getting fit, avoid falling for these common protein myths.

More Protein Means More Muscle

It is true your body requires protein to build muscle tissue. However, this does not mean you can eat more and more protein and build more muscle without any effort, as your body does not directly convert your protein intake into muscle. Instead, muscles are built through a lengthy process. You have to exercise those muscles to build them. If you are eating protein while remaining sedentary, the body will mostly just use protein for the energy needed to run your organs and keep your body functioning, and any excess will turn into fat and cause weight gain. Even if you are exercising, it is not possible to eat huge amounts of protein and get massive muscles instantly. Your ability to build more muscle will be limited by the types of exercise you do and your genetics.

Continue reading to learn about how all protein may not be equal.