4 myths about protein

1. It's a low-value protein

2. Protein can damage the kidneys

3. Acidifies the body

4. Protein damages the bones

1. It's a low-value protein

Vegans and vegetarians hear about this every day. This myth goes back to 1971, when author Frances Moore Lappe in her book Diet for a small planet recently stated that plants are not a complete source of protein because they don't provide at least one of the essential amino acids. This misconception is so deeply rooted in the world of nutrition that even some scientific sources are spreading it.

2. Protein can damage the kidneys

After protein is ingested, some of the amino acids contained in it are excreted by the liver, resulting in the formation of ammonia, a substance that in large quantities is harmful to the body. To prevent health complications, ammonia is converted into urine and removed by the kidneys.

3. Acidifies the body

Acidification itself is a controversial and misunderstood topic. Normally, the pH of the human body is in the range of 7.35 to 7.45. This value mainly refers to the blood. The lower the pH, the more acidic the environment, the larger the more basic. The acidic properties of proteins, especially animal products, are due to the content of phosphorus, chlorine and sulfur atoms, which, after absorption, contribute to the formation of acid-forming hydrogen ions. However, the body's pH is a very tightly regulated system, and the body has buoyancy protective systems against hydroglycerated hydrogen iones.

4. Protein damages the bones

This myth is strongly related to the previous one. It's a myth that as a result of eating protein from animal products, we're supposed to lead to a decrease in the pH of our bodies to prevent this, and there's calcium mobilized from the bones that can neutralize the hydrogen ion acidity. Unfortunately, this leads to a reduction in calcium content in the bones and with the development of osteoporosis.