Protein

[phkrause]

Pongamia trees grow where citrus once flourished, offering renewable energy and plant-based protein

An ancient tree from India is now thriving in groves where citrus trees once flourished in Florida, and could help provide the nation with renewable energy.

https://apnews.com/article/pongamia-tree-citrus-florida-california-biofuel-protein-c9e781f0d1f7ea786b9748235c9dc320?

[phkrause]

Proteinification of everything

Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios

Americans are obsessed with protein — and food companies are taking cues. The big picture: Social media is fueling the "proteinification" of snacks, The New York Times reports. It's showing up everywhere, from popcorn to candy to sparkling water. But nutritionists warn consumers that ultra-processed sweet and salty snacks that have added protein still count as junk food, The Wall Street Journal notes. 💰 The money quote: "How about a chicken breast, people? How about an egg?" Constance Contursi, a personal trainer in Chicago, told the Journal. By the numbers: 61% of North American consumers said they upped their protein intake last year, according to a report from Cargill, a food supply company. 63% are looking for more protein in their snacks. Last year, food companies debuted 97 new products with "protein" in the name, more than double the year prior, WSJ reports, citing market research firm Mintel. 👀 The intrigue: Yes, protein is a star nutrient, but most Americans are getting more than enough of it. One nutrient most of us need more of is fiber. A 2021 USDA study found that just 4% of men and 12% of women are hitting the daily recommended amount of fiber, which is essential for gut health, aiding digestion and healthy weight management, among other perks. The magic ingredient: There's a food that's both a protein and fiber powerhouse that's been catching social media buzz with viral recipes — beans.

[Joe Knapp]

Quote

Americans are obsessed with protein — and food companies are taking cues.

Because all the research is showing how important protein is to the diet, especially senior citizens.

This is the problem with the vegetarian diet. 

We are not getting enough protein. I know many NAD Adventist senior citizens who have little or no muscle mass. Some have to use walkers or wheelchairs because of lack of muscles.

Recent research shows one of the most important indicators for long healthy life is muscle tissue. Specifically, the size of the leg muscles indicate longevity.

Yet many Adventists somehow think a vegetarian diet, is somehow healthier than a meat eating diet.

I was vegetarian for 30 years. For the last 20 years, I have been eating meat. In the last year, I have increased my meat consumption. Grass feed beef, chicken.

My leg muscles are big. Huge for a senior citizen.  I am slowly adding whey protein to my diet.

We cannot ignore the science. We cannot ignore the fact that the majority of NAD Adventists are overweight.

[phkrause]

Protein: Are You Getting Enough?

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on December 17, 2023

Written by Kim Painter

https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/protein?

[phkrause]

You probably don’t need foods with added protein, nutritionists say

The human body needs protein. Proteins carry out countless functions inside cells and they are vital for the growth, repair and maintenance of muscles, bones and skin. And with food companies rolling out high-protein versions of a huge range of foods, including milkshakes and granola bars — and even pancakes and popcorn — you might be tempted to think you need to add more to your diet.

https://apnews.com/article/high-protein-muscle-food-nutrition-e3bd1ddb197139bdf7fe67a09fcdf32e?