Since the introduction of our new NZ made NZSS range we have fielded a lot of questions about the benefits of using supplements and what impact they can have on the results we work so hard for in the gym. In light of this we’ve put together this short article outlining 10 of the most common misconceptions, we hope it’s useful for you.
“It will make me gain weight”
Protein supplements such as the NZSS Lean Whey sold at our clubs are full of nutrients your body needs for lean muscle recovery and maintenance. Of the three macronutrients, protein also has the highest satiety value, meaning you feel satisfied and full for longer.
“It will make me bulky”
Ladies, this one is directed at you. Taking a protein supplement is not going to turn you into a bodybuilder She-Hulk. Muscle is so much more difficult to build than that – especially for women because we lack the testosterone levels required to build big muscles. You don’t accidentally get that big.
“Having some fruit after a workout is just as good”
Have you ever heard the saying “abs are made in the kitchen”? There’s a lot of truth to it. Making smart choices about where your calories are coming from is what will help you see the results you’re training toward. Carbohydrates and fats are not as effective for supporting muscle recovery as protein, so increasing your protein intake may help you see results faster.
“It’s not natural”
You’d be surprised. The fitness supplement is an unregulated market, which means that in a lot of cases protein supplements are full of who-only-knows-what, but not all. The reason we chose to have NZSS Lean Whey in our clubs is because it is a product we believe in and trust. It’s entirely owned and operated in New Zealand and the ingredients are of the highest quality.
“Protein powder is only for bodybuilders”
Bodybuilders would almost definitely clock up the most frequent flyer points if protein supplements had a reward system like that, but that doesn’t mean other people aren’t allowed them. There’s enough for everybody! Anybody who exercises regularly needs to make sure they’re giving their body the right fuel to repair and improve.
“I can meet all my protein needs from food”
This one is interesting. Technically yes, you can get all the protein you need from food, but think of it this way. To get the most out of your strength training, it is recommended that you consume 1.7g of protein per kilo of body weight. For the average 80kg male, this means 136g of protein a day. If you were to get that from chicken, you’d need to eat a massive 650g of chicken breast every day, along with everything else you need for a well-balanced healthy diet. No thanks.
“It’s too expensive”
Following on from the last point, buying 650g of chicken every day is far more expensive than buying protein powder. For example, the 1kg tub sold at our clubs is only $65 and contains 40 servings. That’s $1.62 per serve, while chicken is about $18 per kilo, or $3.88 per serve.
“All protein supplements are the same”
The fitness supplement industry is an unregulated market, which means there is no authority making sure companies aren’t putting things in supplements they shouldn’t. It’s a scary thought, but don’t let it put you off. The Lean Whey protein powder sold at our clubs is a product that we believe in, and a product we trust. There’s nothing scary in the tub.
“It’s a meal replacement”
The truth to this one is in the name: protein supplement. It is in no way supposed to replace a meal. The purpose is to supplement your diet by making sure you’re getting the right nutrients. Add it in to your existing meals to boost the protein content (and deliciousness!)
“A high-protein diet is bad for my kidneys”
This misconception stems from the fact that protein requires more of the body’s resources such as energy and water to break down and absorb than other macronutrients. Needing more water means you need to drink more water and failing to do so can impact the kidneys’ ability to function. But don’t panic – you don’t need to be downing tonnes more water. Just make sure you’re getting at least 2L a day.