High-protein everything: How SA’s weight-loss obsession is reshaping the snack aisle [Part 2]
From protein yoghurts to "protein water", South Africans are chasing grams. We unpack the GLP-1 boom, the pressure to stay thin online, and what the science says.
South African snack aisles are seeing a surge in high-protein offerings, from dairy pouches to protein-infused waters. This shift is driven by the GLP-1 boom, online pressure to stay thin, and the need for muscle retention among South Africans. The trend has made once-gym exclusive products like protein waters common in supermarkets.
Experts advise checking labels and consulting professionals before adding new items to your diet. Protein, essential for muscles, bones, skin, and tissues, can be sourced affordably through dried beans, eggs, and pilchards, all of which are VAT-exempt. For women in menopause, protein intake is particularly important, with daily recommendations ranging from 68 to 81 grams for those doing resistance exercises.
While protein-rich snacks can aid weight loss, they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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