Do You Really Need Protein Supplements To Gain Weight?



There is a lot of hype surrounding the usage of protein supplements. Many are advocating that you need protein supplements to gain weight. The truth is, that more protein doesn't equal more muscle mass. The body utilizes protein in three ways. It first uses any extra calories for energy for the cells. Secondly it uses protein to build muscles, especially if you're weight training. Lastly it stores any excess as fat.

Protein Supplements

The more protein you use, the more fat you will be storing. You're body is like a fat building machine. That is why it is highly recommended for hard gainers to use protein.

Caution: Too much of anything is not good, so don't go over board when it comes to protein usage. Don't think that drinking protein supplements is all you need, healthy eating is vital to gaining safe weight and not just fat.

Which source of protein is better?

There are two types of protein on the market that is well known today, soy protein and whey protein. Whey Protein is by far the best protein, because it has the highest BV (Biological Value). This means that the amount of protein that is absorbed by the body is much greater.

Protein comes in a powder form and you can mix protein shakes and drink those drinks as an additional meal. Many protein drinks don't have a nice taste and that is why many people choose the flavored proteins. Strawberry and chocolate are the favorites.

You can get the same amount of protein from meat, fish, beans, dairy, whole grains, eggs, nuts or poultry. Just add more of the above if you need more protein, but variety is important.

Meat Protein

How Much Protein Do You Need?

As we age so does our protein needs:
  • Infants 6 months - needs 10 gram per day
  • Infants 6 months to 1 year - needs 1.6 grams per Kg per day
  • Teenage Boys - Needs about 52 grams per day
  • Teenage Girls - needs about 46 grams per day
  • Adult men - needs about 56 grams per day
  • Adult women - needs about 46 grams per day

Protein plays an important role in our lives, it is important for healthy bones, building muscles and keeping our cells healthy.

The most important use of a protein weight gain supplement for people with a high metabolism would be to gain weight without adding too much fat or cholesterol.

Protein Sources:


A helpful article that covers our protein intake in more detail visit About.com

Another great source of information that shows the benefits of protein usage is WebMD.com

Protein Supplements Video:


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