FITNESS ENTHUSIASTS ARE GOING OVERBOARD WITH PROTEIN

Extra protein doesn't build muscle; the exercise does.

- DR P.S. VENKATESH RAO

Elephants, rhino, and buffalo are among many powerful, muscular animals on a “low protein” diet.Aggressive marketing and social media hype are leading to protein extremism, with protein being added to snacks, cereals, coffee, and ice cream. While protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, enzymes, and muscles, more is not always better, and excess intake poses health risks, especially if it replaces other essential food groups or if you have underlying health conditions. Elephants, rhino, and buffalo are among many powerful, muscular animals on a “low protein” plant-based diet of grasses, leaves, bark, and other vegetation. Their diets are high in fibre and carbohydrates and low in fat. Every animal eats only what it can digest raw, as that is what its gut is designed for. Similarly, our natural diet is what we can digest raw. Just like you do not put diesel or aviation fuel into your petrol car, do not let protein evangelists and junk food promoters, and influencers, brainwash you to consume their favoured “foods and supplements” and ruin your health. Extra protein doesn't build muscle; the exercise does. Protein needs vary greatly; some need high protein to prevent muscle wasting, while others need restriction to protect their liver or kidneys. The average sedentary adult requires 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram body weight, while even active individuals only need about 1.1-1.7 g/kg. The perception of a “low protein” diet is often an overestimation of human protein needs, except for the malnourished or those on certain extreme diets. Animals are wiser than us, as they know that if they eat anything other than their natural diet, they will fall sick and get eaten up by a carnivore. Like all animals, we should follow our natural diet to stay healthy and avoid unscientific dietary fads. Pair protein from sprouts, legumes, nuts, and seeds with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for a fibre-rich and nutrient-rich, varied, balanced diet.