Bodybuilders eat a lot of protein. But can too much actually be damaging?
In a recent episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show, host Mike O’Hearn invited Dr. Rand McClain, a specialist in regenerative and sports medicine, to discuss if too much protein can be hazardous to your health. Dr. Rand shared his insights and fitness advice in the age of digital information and how to navigate the overwhelming amount of information available online and provided practical tips for making informed health decisions.
Dr. Rand McClain is a doctor in regenerative & sports medicine – and his journey to becoming a leader in alternative medicine has been an unconventional one. From being an early senior account manager at Deloitte to a professional kickboxer in Argentina, his diverse experiences shaped his unconventional approach to healthcare. His patients, including A-list celebrities and world-class athletes, seek his expertise in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cell therapies.
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The Pitfalls of Online Health Advice
Mike O’Hearn began the conversation by addressing a critical issue: the proliferation of misinformation online. He asked Dr. Rand how individuals seeking guidance in health and fitness can avoid falling prey to inaccurate advice.
Dr. Rand agreed that the internet is flooded with health information, often presented by charismatic influencers who might not have the requisite expertise. These influencers can appear highly credible, which poses a significant danger. Dr. Rand emphasized that while some influencers may indeed be knowledgeable, many others are not, and their persuasive delivery can make medically impossible claims seem believable.
He warned against choosing doctors or getting medical advice based on online influencers, likening it to finding a restaurant recommendation rather than seeking professional medical guidance. Instead, Dr. Rand recommended starting with trusted general practitioners for referrals to specialists. This ensures that the advice comes from credible medical professionals with whom you already have a relationship.
Evaluating Medical Advice: A Multi-Pronged Approach
Dr. Rand acknowledged that even “official studies” and “majority medical opinion” can sometimes be misleading, particularly in rapidly evolving fields of medicine. He highlighted the influence of pharmaceutical companies in funding studies, which can skew results.
Despite the skepticism surrounding the phrase “doing my own research,” Dr. Rand recognized its potential value. He suggested a balanced approach that combines practical experience, thorough research, and a track record of positive patient outcomes. Specifically, he advised looking for:
- Doers: Individuals who have personally achieved the goals you are aiming for, demonstrating practical success.
- Researchers: Experts who compare peer-reviewed data to provide evidence-based recommendations.
- Patient Historians: Professionals with a history of positive patient feedback, indicating a successful track record.
This multi-pronged approach ensures a more comprehensive evaluation of medical advice and helps individuals make well-informed decisions.
Personalized Medicine: No One-Size-Fits-All
Dr. Rand underscored the importance of personalized medicine, noting that there is no universal solution to medical problems. He provided an intriguing example involving methamphetamine (speed). While high doses of speed typically result in heightened energy and focus, the same dosage can induce sleep in individuals with ADHD, demonstrating the need for tailored medical treatments.
Patients must be proactive in advocating for themselves, observing how they react to different treatments and communicating their experiences to their healthcare providers. This two-way street in medicine ensures that treatments are adjusted to meet individual needs.
Addressing Protein Intake Concerns
Mike O’Hearn then raised a common concern about long-term high protein intake and its potential impact on kidney health. He shared his personal worry about the effects of his high protein diet over the past 40 years.
Dr. Rand responded by clarifying that general dietary guidelines often target the average person and may not apply to those with a robust fitness and health regimen. He stressed the importance of regular bloodwork to monitor individual health markers rather than relying solely on generalized advice.
Drawing a parallel to cholesterol discussions, Dr. Rand explained that while high cholesterol is often linked to cardiovascular disease, it poses a higher risk primarily for individuals with inflamed arteries. For those in excellent physical condition with healthy dietary practices, high cholesterol alone might not be as concerning.
Practical Analogies for Better Understanding
To further illustrate his points, Dr. Rand used practical analogies. He compared gasoline to cholesterol: a useful resource in everyday life but potentially hazardous in specific situations.
Just as gasoline is essential for heating homes, cooking food, and powering cars, cholesterol plays vital roles in the body. However, like gasoline in a house fire, cholesterol can become problematic if accompanied by other risk factors, such as inflammation.
Wrap Up
The episode concluded with a reinforcement of the need for critical thinking and personalized approaches to health and fitness. Dr. Rand’s insights highlighted the importance of evaluating medical advice through a multi-pronged approach, involving trusted medical professionals, thorough research, and personal advocacy.
For those navigating the complex world of health and fitness information, Dr. Rand’s advice serves as a valuable guide. By seeking recommendations from trusted general practitioners, staying informed through credible sources, and being proactive in their health journeys, individuals can make more informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of misinformation.
You can watch this week’s episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show above. And don’t forget to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
