UPDATED AUGUST 6
Our Response to Comments and Questions from our Episode, 167 – The Protein Conundrum
Since our original release, we’ve had many comments and questions. We greatly appreciate your feedback and your comments.
When we set out to do the podcast our objective, while we knew it would create controversy, was to shed light on the concept that there truly is no exact or definitive answer when it comes to protein requirements.
Additionally, we wanted to highlight the complete obsessive nature that our industries and culture has created around protein and introduce the idea that there is clear, valid research that backs up these points.
Confirmation bias in this instance has created a polarity around this subject matter that is quite frankly seemingly impossible to penetrate. Science is and always has been an ever-evolving field of study. There are many scientific theories surrounding protein consumption. There is little if any scientific fact that provides a definitive answer to the protein question.
As we stated in our podcast, it’s possible to find studies to both prove and disprove what is considered “facts” around protein. Our intention was to open the door to a discussion around healing; and whether or not protein actually contributes to healing those who are chronically ill and suffering. It was to help shed light on the idea that perhaps we are focusing and obsessing about the wrong things when it comes to how we use food as medicine and the root cause of any illness or condition. It was about creating space for us to ponder whether or not we have it “right” as well as shedding light on another perspective.
Thus in addressing your comments here are some of our thoughts. References are listed below.
As far as the amount of protein an individual requires. There is no one size fits all approach and the equations that calculate protein needs are grossly overestimated. Protein requirements are different for those who are sedentary vs those who are active. Different for children and adults, and for seniors, especially those who have significant muscle loss. The mitigating variables are too numerous to mention, but to assume that every person needs 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight is a disastrous notion.
While a diabetic individual may see blood sugar improvements from increasing protein in the short term, this is actually a band aid approach and doesn’t get to the root of the problem which ultimately begins with the liver. It’s important to note that when increasing protein, most are also removing processed sugars from their diet as well as “cleaning up” overall.
As for bone health, protein might make up 50% of our bone structure, but it’s the amino acids that create that structure which can come from plant OR animal. Furthermore what the body needs most for strong bones are minerals, specifically silica. Amino acids are found in just about every food on the planet. As a matter of fact, spirulina, a plant algae, is about 65% Bioavailable protein and is rich in numerous antioxidants. Furthermore there is confirming data that a high protein diet can in fact deplete bone in the body due to the acidity that accompanies the breakdown and metabolism of protein.
As for the thermic effect of food (how many calories it takes to metabolize food) is applicable to all foods. Not just protein. And this number is more like 10% of the food we eat, not 30%.
Lastly, regarding the theory that humans have been consuming only protein for millions of years. There was a recent study published with this headline:
Isotopic evidence of high reliance on plant food among Later Stone Age hunter-gatherers at Taforalt, Morocco
This clearly sheds light on the fact that we are still discovering what early humans actually consumed, and that perhaps we were quick to jump the gun and assume they were as carnivorous as we once thought. It’s our intention to stay curious and never stop learning.
Protein, protein, protein. This topic is everywhere. And I literally mean everywhere. It is one of the most trending topics on social media, and people are talking about it wherever I go.
Episode 167 Description
Yet have you ever wondered where we get the recommendations that we do? Have you ever thought about whether or not what you have been told is correct? Seems like there are so many so-called experts out there, and so many studies that contradict one another, how do we even know where to start with all of it?
This is the topic of our discussion today. Dr. Sherri Greene and I try to debunk the false “truths” and help you truly understand what is behind the protein debacle.
If you are curious about how much you need, and where to get it, and who to trust, you will want to listen to this.
If you are looking to heal your body and live a healthy long life. You will especially want to hear this.
Don’t miss this one. It’s chock full of great information for you!
For a transcript, click here.
To learn more about Sherri, visit her website.
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