{"id":247187,"date":"2025-07-08T05:30:09","date_gmt":"2025-07-08T05:30:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/247187\/"},"modified":"2025-07-08T05:30:09","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T05:30:09","slug":"5-things-dietitians-want-you-to-look-for-when-shopping-for-high-protein-products","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/247187\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Things Dietitians Want You to Look For When Shopping For High-Protein Products"},"content":{"rendered":"

It seems everything is labeled \u201chigh-protein\u201d<\/strong> these days. Snack aisles are packed with an overwhelming selection of protein-rich shakes, bars, pastas, and even ice cream, making it hard to determine which high-protein products are actually good for you.\n<\/p>\n

Keep reading to learn what dietitians think you should look<\/strong> for when shopping for protein-packed snacks. Plus, how much protein<\/a> you really need.\n<\/p>\n

The most important thing to watch out for is products masquerading as healthy<\/strong>. Many packaged foods are ultra-processed<\/a> and may contain a long list of additives, added sugars, or sodium<\/a> you\u2019ll want to avoid.\n<\/p>\n

Additives <\/p>\n

Many processed products contain food additives to increase shelf life, enhance flavor, or add color. However, additives have no nutritional value<\/strong> and have been linked to an increased risk of mental health disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)<\/a>, heart disease, and cancer.\n<\/p>\n

It\u2019s best to skip protein products with unnecessary additives (such as food colors and sodium benzoate preservatives) and opt for products made with purer ingredients<\/strong>.\n<\/p>\n

Protein Types <\/p>\n

The type of protein is important<\/strong> when choosing a high-protein product. Does the product contain an animal protein (such as whey<\/a>) or a plant-based protein<\/a> (such as soy or pea protein)?\n<\/p>\n

Both options can be part of a healthy diet<\/strong>, but you\u2019ll want to consider what type you prefer in terms of taste, where and how they are sourced, and whether you have any dietary preferences or restrictions.\n<\/p>\n

For example, plant proteins are a good protein alternative to animal sources if you are vegetarian, vegan<\/a>, or prefer to get more of your protein from more sustainable sources.\n<\/p>\n

Fiber <\/p>\n

Fiber is another key nutrient for weight loss that also helps you feel fuller longer<\/strong>. Fiber is essential for digestive health and also reduces your risk of heart disease<\/a>, high blood pressure, obesity, type 2 diabetes<\/a>, and certain types of cancers.\n<\/p>\n

Products containing 3 grams or more<\/strong> of fiber per serving are considered good sources of fiber<\/strong>, whereas foods containing 5 grams or more<\/strong> of fiber per serving are considered excellent sources of fiber<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners <\/p>\n

It\u2019s best to avoid added sugars and artificial sweeteners<\/a><\/strong> in protein products. These provide empty calories and no nutrient value. Added sugars can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay<\/a>, obesity, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.\n<\/p>\n

Some artificial sweeteners, such as erythritol<\/a>, have been linked to a mildly higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and death. More studies are needed on the long-term effects of artificial sweeteners, but it\u2019s best to nix them and opt for a natural sweetener<\/strong>, such as monk fruit<\/a> or stevia, instead.\n<\/p>\n

Sodium <\/p>\n

Keep an eye out for excess sodium<\/strong> in packaged high-protein products such as pasta and cereal.\n<\/p>\n

The World Health Organization advises that adults limit their daily sodium intake to below 2 grams <\/strong>(the equivalent of 5 g of salt), but many Americans exceed this amount.\n<\/p>\n

Excess sodium has been linked to high blood pressure<\/a> and increased risk of heart disease.\n<\/p>\n

Eating a high-protein diet can help manage weight, boost satiety (the feeling of fullness), and help support muscle health. However, there are some downsides of high dietary protein<\/strong> to consider.\n<\/p>\n

To avoid nutrient crowd-out, keep your plate balanced<\/strong> by including fiber-rich carbohydrates<\/a> and healthy fats<\/a> in every meal, along with adequate amounts of protein.\n<\/p>\n

Another drawback is that long-term consumption of high dietary protein may lead to kidney damage and chronic kidney disease (CKD<\/a>).\n<\/p>\n

More studies are needed, but the risk of developing CKD is greater for those with an existing risk of CKD and not for otherwise healthy individuals.\n<\/p>\n

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of protein is 46 grams per day for adult women and 56 grams per day for adult men.<\/strong> Protein requirements vary for certain groups of people.\n<\/p>\n

Groups that benefit from more protein:<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n