The Mycenaean

Over the years, new diets and supplements have been on the rise but do they really do anything? 

Recently, this emphasis on protein has sparked some debate. 

Some experts argue that people in many countries already receive enough protein, without the addition of specialized foods or supplements. While others argue certain groups of people such as athletes, older adults, or those trying to lose weight could benefit from higher protein intake. 

Protein isn’t necessarily a “new craze,” but it has gained a lot of attention lately, specifically the keto diet rising in popularity.

These diets have been majorly influenced by the rising fitness culture across social media platforms, mainly on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. It’s fueled by trending fitness programs and advice, health-conscious lifestyles, the “75 Hard” challenge, and “What I Eat in a Day” videos. 

This influencer-driven content inspires followers to engage in the same diets and workouts as them.

Protein is an essential nutrient for muscle growth and an important component in a balanced diet. Some benefits of eating high-protein food include speeding up recovery after exercise/or injury, reducing muscle loss, building lean muscle, helping maintain a healthy weight, and curbing hunger.

Maddie Beaver, junior, said, “I’ve been going to the gym for the past year, and for six straight months I’ve been eating 130 grams of protein a day. That comes through my meal prep, mostly chicken.. Sometimes I’ll treat myself to a sweet treat of a Built Bar brownie flavored or a Barbell chocolate dough flavor. I’ve seen a lot of progress from my new protein-based diet both in my strength and my muscles.”

Due to the viral protein diets an explosion of new protein-packed products, ranging from bars, milkshakes, pasta, and even cereal. If you are looking to incorporate more protein into your diet, here are some of the most popular products on the market. 

Protein Powders

Protein powder is a popular diet supplement that people use mostly for pre-workout or after physical exercise. 

A lot of athletes and bodybuilders enjoy whey, casein, and plant-based powders. These powders come in a lot of fun flavors and attract younger customers. 

Popular brands: Optimum Nutrition, Ghost, Orgain, Dymatize, and Gainful

Protein Bars

Protein bars are a convenient on-the-go snack. 

They are designed to provide a boost and often help with muscle recovery or even used as a meal replacement. However, when picking out a bar, it is helpful to look out for added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives, which can take away from the nutritional content of the bar.

Protein bars can also be calorie-dense, so portions do matter.

Popular Brands: GoMacro, Clif, KIND, Built, ONE Bars, Gatorade, Quest, RxBar, and Premier Protein

Protein is only one part of your diet, it’s important to maintain a healthy balanced diet and not just focus solely on protein intake. As always, any change in diet or exercise should include a visit to a health professional for overall advice and recommendations.