SHOULD GYMERS USE PROTEIN SUPPLEMENTS? DON’T RUSH THE DECISION WITHOUT CAREFUL CONSIDERATION

🥛 Protein powder has long been a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts, especially gymer, aiming to optimize muscle growth. Many believe that the more protein they consume, the faster their muscles will grow—leading to excessive use without properly evaluating their actual bodily needs. But is protein powder truly essential, or is it just a trend? 

📋 The following customer story at CarePlus illustrates the importance of understanding nutrition before turning to dietary supplements. Insights from MSc. Dr. Nguyen Phuong Anh - Nutrition Specialist at CarePlus International Clinics – offer a scientific perspective on the matter. 

1️⃣ A young gymer’s concern about using protein powder for muscle gain 

🏋️ A 14-year-old male client visited CarePlus for a nutrition consultation. An avid sports enthusiast, he spends 2 to 3 hours a day cycling and working out at the gym. He and his mother were concerned: “Should I take whey protein to build muscle?” 

To provide an accurate answer, the doctor performed a thorough nutritional assessment, with the following findings: 

✅Body composition analysis via InBody revealed excellent muscle development and a normal body fat percentage. 

✅ Daily diet was found to provide sufficient to even excessive amounts of protein. 

✅ Blood tests assessing nutrient metabolism and organ function were within normal ranges. 

👉 Conclusion: There was no need to add protein powder—whether whey or any other type—to his diet. 

2️⃣ Is protein powder really necessary for gymer? 

Protein powders (whey, casein, plant-based, etc.) are a convenient option for those who are physically active. However, if your diet already provides enough protein, additional supplementation won't build more muscle and may even cause: 

⛔ Weight gain and excess fat due to surplus calorie intake. 
⛔ Increased strain on the liver and kidneys when consumed over a long period. 

🔔 Important truth to know 
While gymer require more protein than sedentary individuals, most healthy people can meet their protein needs through natural food sources—no powder required. 

3️⃣ Advice from a Nutrition specialist 

⚡ Engaging in gym workouts or sports is a great habit that promotes long-term health and wellness. However, to safeguard your health, taking protein supplements should be a well-considered decision rather than following the hype. 

✅ Before using protein powder, evaluate your daily diet to determine whether your body truly needs additional protein. 
✅ Consult a nutrition expert to avoid unnecessary spending and minimize health risks. 

A balanced and scientifically designed diet is the key to effective training and sustainable health. 

👉 If you're seeking in-depth nutritional advice, don’t hesitate to contact CarePlus to schedule an appointment with our experienced and dedicated team of Nutrition Doctors. 

🍀 The Nutrition Consultation Package at CarePlus includes comprehensive evaluations to accurately assess your health status. Through anthropometric measurements, dietary intake analysis, and clinical assessments, our doctors will provide personalized nutritional advice and physical activity plans tailored to each individual. 

📞 For appointment booking, please call our free hotline at 1800 6116 today! 

CAREPLUS INTERNATIONAL CLINICS  

Associate of Singapore Medical Group