Bite Back with Abbey Sharp

Protein PANIC! How the Protein Craze Got Out of Control with Liam Layton

Episode Summary

In this episode of Bite Back with Abbey Sharp, we’re breaking down the protein craze taking over grocery shelves and social media. From protein pasta and cereal to protein coffee creamers and desserts, protein has become diet culture’s most untouchable macronutrient — but is all this “extra” actually necessary? Joined by nutrition educator Liam Layton, aka The Plant Slant, we unpack protein myths, marketing hype, and why slapping “high protein” on a product doesn’t automatically make it healthy.

Episode Notes

Here’s a run down of what we discussed in today’s episode:

• Why Protein Matters: Evidence-Based Benefits for Satiety, Muscle, and Metabolism
• Are We Actually Protein Deficient? Protein Intake vs. Calorie Intake
• The Rise of Protein Everything: Why Food Companies Are Cashing In
• When Protein Crowds Out Fiber and Other Essential Nutrients
• The Protein Health Halo: Why “High Protein” Doesn’t Equal Healthy
• The Problem With “Healthifying” Junk Food Cravings
• Protein Snacks Under the Microscope: When the Calories Don’t Add Up
• Protein Products That Actually Make Sense (And When They Don’t)
• How to Get the Benefits of Protein Without Obsession or Restriction

References:

• Leidy, Heather J et al. “The effects of consuming frequent, higher protein meals on appetite and satiety during weight loss in overweight/obese men.” Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.) vol. 19,4 (2011): 818-24. doi:10.1038/oby.2010.203
   

Check in with today’s amazing guest: Liam Layton

• Tiktok: tiktok.com/@theplantslant
• Instagram: instagram.com/the_plant_slant
• Facebook: facebook.com/liam.fisherlayton
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@theplantslant2431
• Podcast: inmoderation.buzzsprout.com

Disclaimer: The content in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is never a substitute for medical advice. If you’re struggling with with your mental or physical health, please work one on one with a health care provider.

If you have heard yourself in our discussion today, and are looking for support, contact the free NEDIC helpline at 1-866-NEDIC-20 or go to eatingdisorderhope.com.