Are You Still Believing These Common Protein Myths?

There’s no other way to say it: People are obsessed with protein right now. And to an extent, it makes sense; protein is super important for basic life functioning and optimal health. But as the buzz around the nutrient grows, so does the list of protein-related myths. To help you sift through the noise, we asked registered dietitians to break down (and debunk!) the most common misconceptions about protein, below.

Protein Is Only Important if You Want to Build Muscle: “Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders,” says registered dietitian Roxana Ehsani, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN. “It’s an essential macronutrient your body needs everyday to support optimal health,” she adds. Registered dietitian Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, agrees, noting that your body relies on protein for many things, including tissue repair, enzyme and hormone production, and immune system support. “It’s also a key player in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. On top of that, protein helps keep you feeling full after meals, which can be helpful for managing your weight,” shares Manaker.

Excerpted from Real Simple

Read Full Article