BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Americans are now obsessed with protein, and nutritionists say there are several reasons for the surge.
Protein-packed products now fill grocery store shelves. Instead of just protein bars and shakes, now there are protein pancakes, coffee, candy, and ice cream.
“You can’t walk through a grocery store and not see the word protein on a lot of different products,” said Lizzy Davis, assistant professor in the UAB Department of Nutritional Sciences “I’ve seen it on lattes. I’ve seen it on protein pancakes.
Why protein is trending
Davis said muscle maintenance has become important for people, especially for those who hit the gym or the elderly. Protein is also credited with satiety, making us feel full and satisfied after eating.
The new dietary guidelines for Americans also contributed to the surge in protein products.
USDA guidelines previously recommended 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. The new guidelines have doubled that amount, recommending 1.2-1.6 grams.
“For me, in the old guidelines using my information, I was about 46 grams of protein per day and in the new guidelines I’m on about 92 grams of protein per day,” said Davis.
According to the UAB press releaseresearch shows that most adults have consumed close to 1.0 grams per kilogram of body weight, often exceeding the previous target.
“The food industry is closely tracking these trends to guide new product development,” Davis said in a press release. “Currently, there are many trends that emphasize protein and the demand for easy, fast food, often called ‘ready-to-eat’ options. This is in line with current consumer preferences, centered on health, convenience and lifestyle.”
Not all proteins are the same
Davis said that not all protein-rich items are created equal. While protein-packed processed foods are now available, he recommends sticking to whole foods.
“We can choose plant-based options that will be things like beans, lentils, seeds. Then there are animal-based options that will be poultry, red meat, eggs,” said Davis.
Davis said quick healthy options exist for on-the-go snacks without added ingredients.
“Things like hummus would be a good option. You can buy a little packet of hummus. Pack some carrots with you. That will give you a good source of protein and also extra fiber,” Davis said. “Peanut butter would be a good option. You can add some grain crackers. Beef or turkey shanks are good options. Besides, they have bags of tuna that you can make on the go. That’s great.”
Davis said many protein phrases have a standardized meaning. If the label says “good” source of protein, the item provides 10-19 percent of the daily protein needs. If it says “high or excellent” source, it contains 20% or more.
What happens to excess protein
Davis says more protein is not always better. He explains that excess protein is not stored. It is converted and used for energy or stored as fat if caloric needs have been met.
“If you have enough energy from food, that extra protein can be turned into glucose or stored as body fat, so eating too much protein usually just gives your body extra calories, and over time, it can lead to weight gain,” Davis said in a press release.
While the new recommendations apply to regular, healthy Americans, Davis said everyone is different and has different medical histories and needs. She recommends checking with a doctor or nutritionist for additional guidance.
Get the latest news on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.
Copyright 2026 WBRC. All rights reserved.
#Nutritionists #explain #protein #craze