Is protein making you fat? Health experts say the real issue isnt how much you eat

Many Americans are hooked on protein these days, with some 60% of people “actively trying” to increase their intake of protein, according to the Hartman Group, a consumer research firm based in Bellevue, Washington. From protein shakes and bars to protein pizzas and carnivore diets, Americans seemingly cannot get enough of the macronutrient. Yet is this too much of a good thing? And could today’s obsession with protein-packed food result in added pounds? Fitness experts and nutritionists weighed in on the issue.Protein, Garry Lineham of California told Fox News Digital, is “the golden child of muscle growth, strength and performance.” Lineham is co-founder of Human Garage, a wellness company based in the Golden State. “The carnivore movement has exploded, claiming that plants are unnecessary, while vegans argue the exact opposite, pointing to longevity studies and plant-based champions like Wade Lightheart — who just won Mr.North America on a completely plant-based diet,” he said. Rather than focus on either a carnivore diet or a vegan diet, most people can benefit from a diet that includes both plants and meats, said Lineham.“The real secret? Flexibility — the ability to shift, adapt and evolve your diet as your body changes,” he said. Protein, Lineham said, “isn’t the enemy.

Neither is fat.Neither are carbs.

The enemy is rigid thinking.”People should instead experiment with their diets — shifting to eating more or less protein — and observe how their body reacts, Lineham said.“Want to know what works for you? Stop debating and start testing.Your body already has the answer,” he said.Stephen Sheehan, a Florida-based nutritionist at the website BarBend, told Fox News Digital that eating too much protein can be dangerous. Too much protein “can put extra strain on the kidneys, lead to digestive issues and, if not balanced with other nutrients, push out important carbs and fats,” he said. Plus, if a person i...