Ah Nuts!

It seems protein is the new buzz word these days when consumers go to the stop. Many are misled from the beginning believing that protein comes predominately from red meat. That could not be further from the truth, but who am I to try and convince you? As I relearned nutrition I realized there was more to protein than eating meat and that I could get my source of protein not only from legumes and grains but from vegetables. The leafy greens vegetables are the best place to start with spinach and kale, but we can’t leave out broccoli, cauliflower and mushrooms, just to name a few. All of these foods have a higher percentage of protein than beef, chicken of eggs (source).

Leave it to Post to jump on the profits being made from protein and change their Grape Nuts formula, “Now with 8g protein” This change unfortunately involves the use of isolated soy protein, which is something to be avoided as it can promote cancer. Then again, what doesn’t potentially promote cancer these days? Both Jeff Novick, MS, RD and Dr. John McDougall say to avoid it (read Dr. McDougall’s April 2005 Newsletter).

When Post was contacted by the changes by an individual on the McDougall Discussion Boards, their answer for the change, “because people want more protein and it keeps you full longer.” It’s not protein that keeps you feeling full, it’s the carbohydrates that provide that satiated feeling. More protein, in new packaging will equate to potentially more sales for Post. It’s “a label that says protein has what researchers call a “health halo effect” that goes beyond just the promise of protein. When people see the word, they also believe the product will make them feel more full or give them energy.”

It looks as if I am back to oatmeal for breakfast, as I will no longer support Post Grape Nuts because of the addition of the isolated soy protein. With any luck the Raley’s generic, Nutty Nuggets will remain unchanged, but for all I know it’s the same cereal repackaged for Raley’s at a cheaper price. As always read the labels, understand what you are reading before you fall for gimmicks and labels that make wild claims. Better yet, stick to real food and you have nothing to worry about.