…in some respects: protein powder is big business and it’s in the interest of everyone who manufactures the stuff for EVERYBODY to think they need the 1g/pound of bw recommended to iron freaks. And of course, to consume it in the form of powder and supplements rather than whole foods.

If you have a good sense of what your individual needs are—and it sound like you do—stick within those parameters. Personally, I have had good luck with protein supplementation—I’ve found that a scoop or two in a shake once or twice a day has helped me build and maintain muscle. It also works as a healthy snack—I’ll down a shake when I’m feeling the need for something filling but don’t want to overdo the bad carbs. Many clients have also benefitted.

I’ll add, though, that I also have whole food sources of (usually animal) protein with every meal, and that I use—and recommend—using protein powder as exactly what it’s supposed to be: a supplement to an already healthy diet.

I appreciate your take and disconcern for that ‘GNC guy’ and how pushy they might be when it comes to buying their supplements. I’m not a doctor by any means, but you have to really look at this ‘protein’ intake animal from all angles.

The recommended daily intake for protein is .75 per kg of bodyweight according to Webmd right? Okay, any ‘recommended’ daily intake for any nutrition never accurately represents someone who lives an active lifestyle. There are different levels of fitness and training that each individual puts their body through. You say you train just to keep in shape…some train harder, some train less. Like you said, everyone has different fitness goals. The harder you train, the more your body uses nutrients and therefore needs them replaced. When you train your muscles, you are actually tearing your muscle fibers…with the aid of rest and proper nutrition, you heal and grow like intended. Adequate protein and the right amino acids aid your muscles in that recovery process.

I wouldn’t bash the fact that protein is being sold in stores…more attention is being paid to the value of a well balanced diet. It’s important that the public understand that we were taught wrong in health class back in the 3rd grade…remember 3 balanced meals a day is the right way? It’s wrong…you should probably eat 4-6 smaller(portion controlled) meals throughout the day…avoid overeating with 3 large meals and unhealthy snacks in between. This doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in snacks…just in moderation. Never starve yourself and remain consistent with your nutritional plan…