I was wondering if anyone could answer this for me: My trainer told me to check with my Dr about extra protein since I'm training with him 3X a week now ( on top of my regular cardio at the gym). Do I need extra protein? My Dr (or nurses, staff etc) do not answer questions over the phone. I was just there last week for a fill, and honestly don't want to have to pay yet another expensive copay to go ask him this question. Any input would be GREATLY appreciated!! Thanks everyone!

I've managed to train hard with running and bootcamp for four years, lose 100lb, have very little lose skin and have plenty of nicely toned muscle without Protein supplements. I have never drunk shakes or eaten a high protein diet - on the contrary, unless I get in my good carbs, I lack the energy to train like I do.

I personally think this focus on protein is nothing more than a fad that will come and go. Every trainer and every gym has a product to push, but unless you're trying to be a competitive bodybuilder or gain pounds of muscle they're just not necessary.

The general population did perfectly well before all these shakes came onto the market, after all.