Is that Whey too much?

A year ago, I brought home a very large tub of whey protein powder and was immediately frowned upon by my father. He nagged at me the whole night and exclaimed that I should not take such supplement drinks. He insists that protein drinks were only meant for female bodybuilders and I ought to be slim, to be more ladylike instead of trying to bulk up looking like a man. Obviously, I disregarded his nags because 1) he definitely has his misconception about whey protein 2) why should I conform to his notion of how ladies should look and not be happy with my own body?
Today, I shall try to explain what proteins are and what it does to our body and debunk his misconception about whey protein!
 
Our human body needs proteins. Proteins are essential for us as it is the building block for body tissue, bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood. Protein serves as a fuel source and is used to make enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals. Protein is especially important when you’re an active individual that does strenuous workouts, as it helps repair and build muscle, while keeping you energetic.
We get protein through our daily diet. Some examples of food high in protein are fish such as salmon and tuna, lean chicken, eggs, tofu, milk, yoghurt, nuts and seeds. If you are an average active individual, that exercises only 1 – 3 times a week, my humble opinion is that incorporating food higher in protein in your daily diet should suffice.
 
However, if you are a heavy-duty active individual, say you practice the Ashtanga primary series every day before sunrise, goes to gym to lift weights, does HIIT, run intervals 2 – 3 times a week, you would need a bit more protein in your body than the average Joe/Jane in order not to leave your muscles with a deficit of the building blocks to recover. Hence the whey protein! Whey protein shakes are fast digesting protein, delivering amino acids and gets straight to work on repairing your muscles. Imagine, having to consume the equivalent of 2 chicken breast and 2 eggs (quantity based on estimation) right after a strenuous workout when you can have the convenience of the whey protein shakes.
 
That said, I advocate that individuals should be responsible of their own food consumption and be aware of what their own body needs. Know your food nutrients; know your own lifestyle habits, do your own research and be a discerning reader. Only you will know what works for you, so take charge now and adjust your diet and nutrition accordingly.
 
– Charlie Tan (200hr Weekday TTC Sep 2015)