Does too much protein cloud your judgment?

July 11, 2017 Ashley 0 Comments

Still debating a high protein diet?

One that sticks the middle finger to the carbs?

Many a health professional’s already covered why loading up solely on protein’s not optimal. There’s the fatigue. (Especially during those first few days.) There’s the lack of sustainability. (Carbs are the brain’s preferred fuel source; it’s super tough to shove ‘em away indefinitely.) And, worse of all, there’s the rebound weight when you inevitably fall off the bland food band wagon. But, aside from all’ve the somatic ramifications, did you know that subbing in more protein for your usual portion of carbs can potentially even change your brain?

(Even if that protein’s *not* from obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular disease inducing red meat…)

So, what happens, exactly?

Well, scientists observed some fascinating behavior from those on high protein diets. See, normally, we have this psychological process that happens when it comes to deal-making and fairness. If we’re given a shizzy offer, most of us will reject it – even if it means we might miss out on some sort’ve reward. Example? Monkeys in cages won’t accept treats they usually would – if they see their monkey brethren getting something better from the same person. It could be seen as spite. In fact, it might seem more sane to just take the free thing ‘n not look a gift horse in its oral cavity. But really, there’s more to it. With animals, it’s likely because – once the sweeter prize is in view – the less appetizing option’s suddenly invisible. (The way your dog’ll be paw deep in his dinner bowl – until you pull the pizza out of the oven.) But, with people, that same reaction’s likely got to do more with trust. And, when it comes to interpersonal interactions, the implications have a farther reach. It can mean not wanting to do business or strike up a romantic dynamic in general with someone who’s unjust or untrustworthy. Plus, who wants to fraternize with someone cruel enough to taunt you by favoring your friend over you – right in front of your face?

So, when it came to the actual study performed on protein and decision making, something similar transpired. Someone would propose an unfair deal, like, “You get five bucks, and I get twenty.” Now, if the other person says, “No, way. You’re a d-bag. It should be even. I refuse”, then nobody gets paid. You don’t get your twenty – and I don’t get my five either. But, if the other person says, “Mmmkay. Sounds legit”, then everybody gets paid. Granted, it’s only five bucks for the dude rockin’ the raw end of the deal. But it’s still five bucks more than they walked in with. And the protein eaters took their measly five every time, while the high carbers argued the fairness facet of it.

So, does this make the protein eaters smarter? I mean, they did walk away five dollars richer, right?

Not necessarily, say experts. According to other aspects of the study, it seems like this isn’t just gentle serenity and acceptance or putting aside spite for the sake of making money. It’s more to do with a willingness to be walked all over when we’re high on high protein foods. Because protein does generate dopamine, the feel good hormone, we’re more likely to go along with even the most inane offers after eating it. (Ya know, the way you’re more amenable to spending more money on cocktails when you’ve already got a few in you and’re feeling good.)

(“Maybe if I just eat the other monkey, I’ll be protein doped enough to *want* this awful consolation prize.
Bonus: I’ll get his treat, too!”)

Within the parameters of this study, it might seem fine. But the bigger picture’s a bit more ominous. Because, when it comes to other areas of decision making in our lives, it could mean anything from significant financial loss to loss of identity. We are what we eat. And that’s why it’s so crucial to keep carbs, protein, and healthy fats (macros) even and balanced – so that we can be too.

So, properly portion out those macros!

Because the idea may be to lose our chubby guts…

…but it’s not to be gutless – or lose who we are – in the process.