Don't Be Fooled - NW Personal Training

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Protein is having a moment. Walk through any grocery store and you’ll see protein chips, protein donuts, protein cookies, protein cereal, protein ice cream, protein candy, and even protein Pop-Tarts. Food manufacturers know that consumers are becoming more aware of the importance of protein, and they are capitalizing on that trend with aggressive marketing.

But don’t be fooled.

Just because a Product is High in Protein Doesn’t automatically make it Healthy.

Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and preserve muscle, supports metabolism, promotes satiety, and contributes to healthy aging. For most people, especially active adults and those over 50, increasing protein intake can be beneficial. However, adding protein to a highly processed food does not magically transform it into a health food.

A high-protein donut is still a donut.

High-protein Doritos are still highly processed chips.

A high-protein pop tart is still a highly processed pastry.

Many of these products contain long ingredient lists, artificial flavors, preservatives, added sweeteners, refined oils, and ingredients you would never find in your own kitchen. While they may provide extra protein, they often fall short when it comes to overall nutritional quality.

Instead of focusing solely on the protein number listed on the package, look at the entire food. Ask yourself: What is this food actually made from? The healthiest approach is to get the majority of your protein from real, minimally processed foods.

Excellent Protein Sources:

Eggs
Fish
Chicken
Turkey
Lean beef
Greek Yogurt
Cottage Cheese
Tofu
Edamame
Beans
Lentils
Other whole-food protein sources.

These foods provide not only protein but also vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and other nutrients your body needs.

Supplements to a Healthy Diet

Protein Shakes
Protein Bars

Protein bars and protein shakes aren’t bad. In fact, they can be incredibly convenient when you’re traveling, rushing between appointments, or need a quick post-workout option. The key is to view them as supplements to a healthy diet, not replacements for real food.

A simple guideline is to build most meals around whole-food protein sources and reserve packaged protein products for occasional convenience.

Remember, health is about more than a single nutrient. Don’t let clever marketing distract you from the bigger picture. A protein label on the front of a package doesn’t automatically make it nutritious.

Focus on real food most of the time. Read ingredient lists. Choose foods that look as close to their natural form as possible. When you do that, you’ll naturally get the protein you need while providing your body with the nourishment it truly deserves.

Yours in health & fitness,
Sherri McMillan

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