Protein powder is the most widely used workout supplement, with millions of people worldwide consuming it. Do you, however, believe, it is as useful and beneficial as it is advertised? Do you need it to bulk up or build muscle?
In my opinion. The answer is NO. Whey protein is not required to achieve your fitness goals.
When I was younger, I did consume protein powder sometimes when I worked out. But it never felt like it was working for me. Not only me but other people who experienced the same illusion. Many people recommended it as a supplement that promised to help you gain muscle and achieve your fitness goals.
But, over time, I realized that protein powder might only be useful after a workout because it was so easy to make and drink (not to mention a faster way to feed the muscles). My opinion of the idea and perspective gradually changed after I realized we didn’t need to use it. For some, it was a meal replacement, a daily drink, or a favorite supplement to help them achieve their fitness goals.
I also met many successful athletes and bodybuilders who did not use protein powder. In fact, I met some who never used protein powder at all and only ate natural, nutritious whole foods.
I realized this was just an illusion created by what other people think you should or are doing while working out. It was obvious that this product was a waste of money and time. It was just a business.
Let me tell you something: this is for the vast majority of people who have been using protein powders for years if not decades. Assume you never used protein powder and saved your money. Simply calculate the amount of money you would have saved in your bank account. And how many pounds of muscle do you believe it assisted you in gaining? Most likely not much.
You might say that you wish you hadn’t used it and could have saved that much money. But that’s not the main problem. The main issue is that this supplement is a manufactured product. Why consume processed food when natural food is available? It’s just a myth that protein powder is a magical supplement that will make you bulk up or lose fat. Do you know how to build a great body?
You can improve your physical appearance by working out efficiently and consistently, as well as eating enough and wisely. Sleep, recover, repeat, and be patient. Okay, I understand that protein powder can be used as a boost to accelerate muscle gain, you may say. But perhaps for a few people. Everyone is different.
But, in the end, I don’t believe the hype and recommend that you avoid it. However, it is still your choice.
In my philosophy, I prefer natural things, including natural foods. Always go for natural in life, because if you don’t, you’ll pay for it later because circumstances may arise. Not to mention that protein powder is deficient in other vitamins and minerals. And, aside from some additives, who knows what else is in that box? Even the most expensive or natural ones are not worth it.
See, people will go for anything that will give them what they want. And protein powder is on top of the list when it comes to people’s fitness dreams. It was the best thing to market for people who were desperate for better and more attractive bodies. People always believed in the illusion and underestimated the power of real food.
The following are some of the reasons why you should avoid using protein powder.
It’s extra work for your liver and kidneys
Digestive Problems
Hidden Ingredients
Whey protein can trigger acne
Potential Exposure to Heavy Metals
Processed food. Always choose natural over-processed food.
Lack of nutrients
Unneeded expense, the money you spent adds up, and you could’ve saved that money for something more useful. Not worth the money
People build muscles long before there was even the term ‘Protein shake’
A lot of people say they experience digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and/or loose stools from consuming whey protein shakes (my smart stomach philosophy, I did experience digestive symptoms)
Whey protein powders have an unbalanced nutrient composition and poor micronutrient profile when compared to meat, fish, and eggs
You don’t need a post-workout protein shake
Post-workout protein shakes won’t magically boost your muscle gains.
Matt M. Eccles is the founder of Vitality and Happiness Blog. He is a philosopher, psychology enthusiast, wellness and digestion expert, author, and world traveler who is passionate about helping others reach and experience optimum health, true happiness, and increased vitality. The purpose of this website is to motivate and inspire people to handle life’s challenges. Uplift and encourage you to succeed in life and be happy and healthy, increase life quality, and become the best version of yourself.