Protein is essential. Our bodies need it to repair and rebuild tissue, and our individual needs change depending on our size, diet and level of physical activity. But somewhere along the way, “high protein” also became shorthand for “healthy”.
In this episode of After Hours, Stephen and I look past that health halo and ask whether adding protein to everything from cereal and cheese to chocolate and snacks actually makes those foods better for us. We explore where protein comes from, the role of plant and animal sources, why active people may need more, how whey protein became such a huge industry, and why simply eating more protein will not magically build muscle without giving your body a reason to use it.
The conversation also takes us into the much bigger world of dieting: detox products, diuretics, crash diets, protein-maxing, carnivore, keto and the constant search for a shortcut to a healthier body. My view throughout the episode is that nutrition should never be reduced to declaring one nutrient “good” and another “bad”. Protein has an important place in our diet, but so do carbohydrates, fats, fibre and the many nutrients we get from a varied diet. The best approach is ultimately the one that supports your health and can realistically become part of your life. As one of my university lecturers once told me, if the way you achieve your “dream body” is something you could never sustain, then it probably isn't a dream at all.
After Hours is where science gets personal. Hosted by Dr Vincent, your friendly neighbourhood scientist and Stephen!
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