From protein bars and shakes to high-protein cereals and snacks, protein has become one of the biggest nutrition trends in recent years.<\/p>\n
The surge in protein-rich products has coincided with the popularity of weight-loss plans and high-protein diets, but nutrition experts say more protein isn\u2019t always better.<\/p>\n
Nutritionists say the recommended dietary allowance for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for the average adult. Individual protein needs vary based on factors such as age, body weight, activity level and overall health.<\/p>\n
Morgan Nishisaka, a sports nutrition resident at the Memorial Hermann Rockets Sports Medicine Institute, says the biggest concern isn\u2019t necessarily eating too much protein\u2014it\u2019s having an unbalanced diet.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you\u2019re eating too much protein, you can sometimes end up not getting enough carbohydrates,\u201d Nishisaka said. \u201cEspecially with athletes, we see they\u2019re doing great on their protein intake, but carbs are what\u2019s lacking.\u201d<\/p>\n
Experts say carbohydrates are an important source of energy, particularly for people who exercise regularly.<\/p>\n
Good sources of protein include chicken, turkey, fish, lean red meat, eggs, dairy products, beans, legumes and tofu.<\/p>\n
While protein shakes, powders and other fortified foods can help some people reach their daily protein goals, Nishisaka says they shouldn\u2019t replace whole-food sources.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think having extra protein supplementation, whether that be a protein shake or protein oatmeal, can be helpful to meet those goals, but people shouldn\u2019t rely on those products to get all of their protein,\u201d Nishisaka said.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re concerned you\u2019re getting too much or too little protein, experts recommend talking with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine what\u2019s right for your individual needs.<\/p>\n
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