![]() ![]() There’s no doubt that protein is an essential part of the diet. But how many of us really need any extra? For example, protein from peas, potatoes, rice and soybeans can all be extracted and powdered, sometimes with added flavourings to make them taste good. The powder might come from an animal source such as eggs or milk, or from plants. There's a range of strengths available, with the highest doses aimed at bodybuilders. And there are hundreds of new food products in supermarkets – from cereal bars to ice cream and chocolate – which signal their protein-containing credentials in bold letters. People eating a vegan diet sometimes use the supplements to up their protein intake if they feel they're not getting enough. Some people use a protein drink as a snack between meals or even use it instead of a meal if they've not got time to eat. With their popularity reaching way beyond bodybuilders and professional athletes, now seems like a good time to look at the evidence around protein powders. In the changing room at the gym, however, there are plenty who sing their praises, explaining that they simply add a scoop of powder to milk or to a smoothie, work out and then build extra muscle. When I go into my local health food store, there’s one corner that's always been a bit of a mystery to me – the shelves packed with dozens of white plastic tubs filled with powdered protein supplements. ![]()
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