Macro Myths: Protein
Content by: Jamie Rinaldi RD LD
Decipher between fact and fiction when it comes to the macronutrient of protein. Read more information on protein myths and share the digital handout to spread awareness.
💡 Features: Nutrients, Kidney, vegetarian, vegan, soy, proteins
🏷 Tags: Download, Handout, Infographic, Blog, Article
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There are many myths that support and detract from high protein consumption. Here are a few of the most common.
❌ There is much confusion related to the role of protein and kidney disease. Does protein cause kidney failure?
✅ No, protein does not cause kidney failure. When renal function is already impaired, too much protein can cause further kidney damage. It is not the initial cause of renal insufficiency.
❌ Many people believe vegetarians and vegans can not consume enough protein.
✅ Vegetarians may include dairy products, eggs, and/or fish to easily get enough protein in the diet. While this may be more challenging for vegans, it is not necessary to obtain protein from animal sources. There are many good sources of protein available in nuts, seeds, soy products, beans, lentils, legumes, pulses, and whole grains.
❌ Dieters often have the misconception that if carbohydrate intake is severely limited, it's not required to monitor how much protein and fat in the diet. Is high protein the silver bullet for weight loss?
✅ Fact: All calories count! Research supports that a high protein diet can support weight loss when it replaces refined carbs and excess fat. However, it is important to remember that a person can lose or gain weight on a calorie-controlled diet, regardless of the calorie source. The key to a healthy diet is variety.
❌ Soy has long been scrutinized for its potential in causing unwanted physiological side effects in men, cancer and other chronic diseases. Do isoflavones act like estrogen and present health concerns?
✅ No. Research has shown soy can be health protective and completely safe when consumed in moderate amounts.