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From pasta and pancakes to drinks and snack bars, protein is having a moment. Grocery store shelves are filled with products touting added protein, but doctors say it’s important to look beyond the marketing before deciding what belongs in your cart.
“We have noticed there's been so much increase in packaging, that mentioned specifically protein,” said Dr. Jennifer Carrion, a family medicine physician.
Dr. Carrion said protein is an important part of a healthy diet, but a front-of-package protein claim does not tell the full nutrition story.
“I do think that it doesn't necessarily give us a whole picture. Especially when we think about other macros like saturated fats, added sugars, you know, fiber, salt, also that are included in the packages,” Dr. Carrion said.
Not all sources of protein are equal. Dr. Carrion recommends focusing on lean and nutrient-dense options, including chicken breast, fish and plant-based proteins such as lentils and beans, which can also help increase fiber intake.
“Our fattier, more saturated fat proteins, do increase the risk of heart disease and stroke later on in life too,” Dr. Carrion said.
A balanced diet built around whole foods is a good place to start. If you plan to increase your protein intake, Dr. Carrion said it should be part of a broader approach that includes regular physical activity.
“We want to make sure we're prioritizing fitness activity into our daily routines, because we know that that'll help optimize that protein absorption,” Dr. Carrion said.
Before making major changes to your diet, talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian about a nutrition plan that fits your health needs and goals.
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