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原文标题:Decades of Hype Turned Protein Into a Superfood
链接:https://web.shanbay.com/reading/web-news/articles/qkrvg 难度:四级 ![]() ![]() |
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Do you ever blend up a protein smoothie for breakfast, or grab a protein bar following an afternoon workout?If so, you are likely among the millions of people in search of more protein-rich diets. Many of us living in the most economically developed countries are buying into a myth of protein deficiency created and perpetuated by food companies and a wide array of self-identified health experts.Global retail sales of protein supplement products – usually containing a combination of whey, casein or plant-based proteins such as peas, soy or brown rice – reached a staggering US$18.9 billion in 2020, with the U.S. making up around half of the market. Weight-loss surgeon Garth Davis writes in his book "Proteinaholic" that "'eat more protein' may be the worst advice 'experts' give to the public."Davis contends that most physicians in the U.S. have never actually examined a patient with protein deficiency because simply by eating an adequate number of daily calories we are also most likely getting enough protein. In fact, Americans currently consume almost two times the National Academy of Medicine's recommended daily intake of protein: 56 grams for men and 46 grams for women – the equivalent of two eggs, a half-cup of nuts and 3 ounces of meat – although optimal protein intake may vary depending on age and activity level. For example, if you're a dedicated athlete you might need to consume higher quantities of protein.Generally, though, a 140-pound person should not exceed 120 grams of protein per day, particularly because a high protein diet can strain kidney and liver function and increase risks of developing heart disease and cancer. Walter Willett, chairman of the department of nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, describes high protein intake as "one of the fundamental processes that increase the risk of cancer."Beyond these concerns, processed supplements and protein bars are often packed with calories and may contain more sugar than a candy bar. However, "the protein supplement market is booming among the young and healthy," those who arguably need it least.The retail sales of protein products in the United States were at $9 billion in 2020, up from about $6.6 billion in 2015. Fats and carbohydrates have, along with sugar, taken turns being vilified since the identification of macronutrients (fats, proteins and carbs) over a century ago.As food writer Bee Wilson points out, protein has managed to remain the "last macronutrient left standing." Most people living in high-income nations are consuming enough protein.When we replace meals with a protein bar or shake, we also risk missing out on the rich sources of antioxidants, vitamins and many other benefits of real food. ![]() ![]() |