Considering how proteins are now the talk of the town, you need to know there are bad proteins as well. Studies on the human proteome–the catalogue of human proteins– have revealed that the world of proteins is interesting and beautiful, with each protein shaped differently and performing different functions. We often hear that proteins are good and no wrong will come from them, but the truth is there are bad proteins out there.

Bad proteins are formed when proteins get misfolded. Misfolding occurs during the shaping process, and it can go wrong for a few reasons. When they do go wrong, they are bad for your health. These bad proteins are likely to cause diseases of various kinds. Your body’s cells then have to protect themselves from these proteins to function properly.

Consumption

The consumption of proteins has gone much higher since the 1990s, but instead of blindly following trends, people should know and understand that their consumption of protein these days is higher than US dietary guidelines and the World Health Organization standards. Evidence regarding proteins has so far remained inconclusive.  What is understood is that over consumption of protein is bad for you –as is the case with every nutrient.

Additionally, contrary to popular belief, red meat and processed meat are not good sources of proteins. More bad sources are sausages and bratwurst which are high in sodium, fat and saturated fat. Another bad source is burgers, which are again high in fats. One thing to note, however, is that you should not completely demonize fats as a certain amount of saturated fats and cholesterol is needed with protein intake. It is, therefore, recommended to do some research.

Another source of bad protein is a controversial one and that is soy. It has recently gained ground as a super food and is the main source of protein for vegetarians. Studies, however, have shown that consuming too much soy has hormone altering side effects because of the presence of Phytochemicals and Phytoestrogen.

Protein supplements

There is plenty of information out there that talks about the bad of protein supplements, and it’s something we should pay attention to. The manufacturing process of protein supplements leaves proteins ‘denatured’. This means that the body no longer recognizes them as food. Denaturing occurs when proteins are subjected to incredibly high temperatures in the manufacturing process.

Another problem with protein supplements is that manufacturers add synthetic and toxic ingredients to products, which are mentioned on the labels. Some are Aspartame, saccharin, fructose (sugar), and artificial colors. One final problem is that studies about protein drinks have revealed traces amounts of contaminants including arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. These may be traces, but the buildup can be alarming the regular use of protein powder.

Conclusion

The verdict is that there is no substitute for natural sources of protein, and the importance of a balanced diet cannot be emphasized enough. This means that getting the right amount of everything out there is certainly a good idea.

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