Protein serves a number of important functions in humans, helping the body build and maintain muscles and organ health; composed of amino acids, they’re also one of the cornerstone products that athletes turn to when looking to enhance muscle building and fat burning. However, in a recent online piece, Grace Wu, a staffer with The Epoch Times, an independent print/online news outlet, questioned the value of protein supplements for athletes.
Wu noted sales of protein supplements have boomed as products have been marketed as an essential nutrient for muscle development and fat loss. The commercial protein products, often dairy or soy based, are available in a number of forms, whether bars, powders or shakes. In her piece, Wu acknowledged protein deficiency can hinder effective muscle repair, which can be caused by demanding workout routines; however, she stated most athletes likely are already consuming enough protein in the diet.
Instead, taking mega-doses of protein supplements could place additional stress on the kidneys, as the body works to break down excess protein into the amino acid building blocks, and further into byproducts such as urea, she stated. What about taking individual amino acid supplements, which bypass the breakdown process, or could individually support muscle gain? “Since our bodies are very efficient at breaking down and absorbing protein, there is no advantage in consuming amino acids directly,” she stated. “In actuality, the so-called optimized levels of select amino acids advertised by various supplements may provide no benefit, and even add potential harm.”
Wu wrapped up by questioning the safety and quality of most supplements, turning to the oft-cited (and incorrect) phrase “little regulation” of the supplement industry. Instead, she suggested athletes practice good nutrition by consuming whole foods with carbs and protein after a strenuous workout, or making a protein-rich shake out of ingredients like milk, yogurt, peanut butter and banana.