The protein craze has transformed supermarket aisles, offering everything from enriched yogurts and bread to shakes. This trend, driven by the food industry and social media, promotes the idea that 'the more protein, the better.' However, experts insist that intake must be personalized and should not increase at the expense of other vital nutrients for a balanced diet.
“"The trend has been clear for years: more protein than recommended is being consumed."
While traditional dietary guidelines recommend 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for a healthy adult, more recent studies place intake between 1.1 and 1.2 grams per kilo. Aina Merino, a nutritionist at Hospital del Mar, points out that certain population groups, such as the elderly or pregnant women, do require higher consumption.
The professionals warn that high and sustained intake can impact bone and cardiovascular health, especially if the protein comes mainly from animal sources rich in saturated fats. They also caution that fixation on diet can lead to eating disorders, such as orthorexia.
“"The interest is positive as long as the risks are taken into account."
To avoid imbalances, the experts emphasize promoting vegetable protein, such as legumes and nuts, or lean animal sources like white fish. The main risk of high-protein diets is the displacement of other essential foods such as vegetables, fiber, and carbohydrates, moving the population away from the Mediterranean Diet.
