There's a lot of confusion out there about protein and weight gain. Some people think that protein will make you gain weight, while others believe that it's the key to losing weight. So, what's the truth? Let's take a look at the science behind protein and weight gain to find out.
The Science of Protein and Weight Gain
First, let's dispel the myth that protein makes you fat. It's true that protein contains calories, but it's also true that your body needs those calories to function properly. In fact, without enough protein, your body can't build or repair muscle tissue, which is essential for both weight loss and weight maintenance.
So, if the protein isn't the culprit when it comes to weight gain, what is? The answer is simple: overeating. When you eat more calories than your body needs, whether those calories come from protein, carbohydrates, or fat, you will gain weight.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
Now that we've established that protein isn't going to make you gain weight, you might be wondering how much protein you need to eat in order to lose weight or maintain your current weight. The answer depends on a number of factors, including your age, activity level, and muscle mass.
The general rule of thumb is that you should consume 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight every day. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should be eating 54 grams of protein each day. However, if you're highly active or trying to build muscle mass, you may need more protein than that.
Protein isn't the enemy when it comes to weight gain—overeating is. As long as you're eating the right amount of calories for your activity level and goals, you don't have anything to worry about.
If you're having trouble consuming enough protein in your daily diet, consider adding a protein powder to your diet to be sure you are getting enough protein everyday. Click the link below to check out our top picks of the best protein powders out there.
So go ahead and enjoy a healthy dose of protein each day!
