Although Whey Protein is so popular, there's still a long list of myths surrounding whey and protein shakes in general. In this blog we will deep dive into the most popular myths while breaking down why they are false.
What is Whey Protein?
Before we look at some of the myths, it is important to understand exactly what Whey Protein is. Whey Protein is a food supplement that is derived from Milk. If you open a yoghurt and see the liquid that sits on top, this is Whey. Whey is separated and mixed with other ingredients and flavours to create a bag or tub of Whey Protein.
Now we know where Whey comes from, let's dive into the most common myths surrounding protein shakes.
Common Myths About Protein
Whey Protein makes you bulky
It's a common thought, especially with women, that drinking protein shakes will make you bulky. Drinking a protein shake is the equivalent of eating any other protein source, just in a more convenient way. Like with any food, the only way to become bulky is by eating a surplus amount of calories. Protein can actually help you maintain a lean and conditioned physique.
Protein is only needed after the gym
When starting out in the gym, most of us have been in the situation where you finish a workout then rush to get a protein shake to build muscle. This is what is known as the myth as the anabolic window. Although having protein post workout is important, there isn't a small window after training where you need to get a protein hit to maximise your gains.
Set yourself a daily protein target and focus on hitting your protein everyday. Spreading your protein out across the day has been found to have small benefits but with a busy lifestyle, hitting your target should be the main goal.
Protein is damaging for kidneys
Its a common myth that is a high protein diet is damaging for your kidneys. Unless you are someone who already has kidney issues and your doctor has given you guidance to reduce your protein intake, a high protein diet will not be damaging for your kidneys.
Protein makes you gain weight
Calories are made up from protein, carbohydrates and fats. Eating protein won't make you gain weight, eating a surplus amount of calories over a long period of time will be the reason for weight gain. Protein can actually help with fat loss as it is the macronutrient with the highest thermic effect. This basically means your body burns more calories through the digestion of protein.
Protein powder is only for bodybuilders
Whey Protein is a food supplement that can be used by anyone, not just bodybuilders. For anyone who does exercise, protein is going to be a beneficial macronutrient. Protein can help you recover from exercise, build muscle, control appetite and more.
