Protein complements, which come with extra sugars and additives, may damage the kidneys and bones and are not essential for healthy individuals, said specialists, even as the ICMR-NIN’s new nutritional guidelines also recommend against them. The Indian Council of Medical Research and National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), the previous week, confirmed 17 dietary procedures to avert nutrient shortages, as well as advice on the rising danger of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses in India.
The new procedures, which comprise evidence-based food and lifestyle-related references, called out against the necessity for protein supplements. It distinguished that a healthy and correct diet is sufficient to fulfill the protein necessities of all individuals. As per the new procedures, the necessary protein is 0.83g/kg/day, and the assessed average consumption is 0.66 g/kg/day.
With improved knowledge and evidence about micronutrients and their standing in a balanced diet, individuals have resorted to protein powder, and protein enhancements, among other non-natural nutritional enhancements, Dr. N Vijayshree, Head and Chief Dietician of MGM Healthcare informed IANS. These protein powders are typically made with eggs, milk, whey, or plant bases such as soy, peas, or rice, occasionally with a mix of these sources.
These additions, with high sugars and additives, overthrow the purpose of having a stable diet, instigating severe or more harm to our kidneys and bone health, the doctor added. Vani Krishna, Chief Nutritionist, at Manipal Hospital Varthur, told IANS that protein consumption can be attained by adding legumes, pulses, nuts, seeds, eggs, poultry, fish, etc. with a stable diet for all age groups.
A person’s protein consumption has to be measured and checked by a skilled clinical nutritionist before administering any kind of protein powders/supplements. For gaining good quality protein, a mixture of cereals with pulses in the ratio of 3:1 will benefit to meet the amino acids desired in the body, Vani said. Dr. Vijayshree also recommended physical activity to use the protein consumed and evade muscle loss, as well as a satisfactory amount of carbs and fats for the effective utilization of the consumed protein.
A stable diet must meet the 20 vital amino acids required for bodily functions. To attain some of these amino acids, which cannot be synthesized in our body, it is important to consume assorted food groups like carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Protein supplements are not suggested for normal, healthy people. Critically ill, hospitalized patients may necessitate protein supplements, which should be suggested and observed by clinical professionals, Dr. Vijayshree said.
