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Title: Protein Confusion Could someone please clarify the effects of consuming extra protein (protein shakes, protein diets, etc.)? I have been told by bodybuilders that extra protein helps build their muscles. And, by the looks of the, it would appear that they are correct. But, I have also been told by others that extra protein is stored as fat, and that it doesn't help to build muscles. I have been told that the only other way protein is used (besides fat) is for fuel for your body when you run out of carbohydrate and fat storage. And, I have been told that the only people who may need extra protein is long distance runners, who need it when they run out of their carbohydrate & fat storage during a run. Can I get a verdict??!! Is extra protein for or against you? Name: Ami Date: May. 30th, 2001 Title: Re: Protein Confusion There have been alot of studies on the amount of protein needed in one's diet. The FDA recommends 0.8g of protein per kg of weight, for the average american. But when we exercise, either by weight lifting or cardio, the amount of protein required to maintain normal bodily functions, ie protein sythesis, increases. If you do not get enough protein to meet these needs, your body will breakdown existing muscle tissue to get what it needs. The need for each person is different, but many studies suggest 1.6 g per kg of weight (which is abit lower than 1g per pound which alot of people follow). Some people's need were higher than 1.6g/kg and some were lower. There are products to test your nitrogen balance, which tells you if you need more protein or less (but I doubt these are necessary unless your are a professional bodybuilder). Any excess protein not required by your body will be used for dietary energy. It will be converted to glucose and if this is not burned, this will turn into gat. Name: Kurt Date: May. 30th, 2001 Title: Re: Protein Confusion Oops hit the Enter Key gat=fat. If you are trying to gain muscle I would suggest 1g per pound or higher. If you are concentrating on losing weight, I would follow 1.6kg/kg of weight suggested by a few studies. So, yes, extra protein is good for you if you are exercising, but the exact amount is hard to determine. Hope this helps. Name: Kurt Date: May. 30th, 2001 Title: Re: Thanks! Thanks so much for your time taken to explain this to me! I really appreciate it. I exercise regularly and am very happy as far as my size goes, but barely have the look of muscle tone. I was being told by some to increase my protein intake, and then by others that it would only turn in to fat! I doubt that I get enough protein, it is mostly incomplete proteins because I just don't crave red meat, etc. My body is probably breaking down muscle tissue as we speak! Your explanation was very thorough and will help me out a lot. Thanks! Have a great day/weekend!! Name: Ami Date: Jun. 1st, 2001 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | |