You're not alone if you’ve been snacking on jerky sticks, protein bars, or scooping collagen into your morning coffee. Snacking trends are shifting—and protein is having a major moment.

With many Americans rethinking their eating habits (especially in the age of weight loss drugs like Ozempic), the focus has turned from sugary snacks to more functional foods that support health goals. High-protein options are leading the charge, and it’s not just for bodybuilders anymore. Let’s break down what you should know before you jump on the protein train—and how to make it work best for your body.

Why Protein Is Taking Center Stage

We’ve always known protein is important—it helps build muscle, keeps us full, and supports everything from immune function to hormone production. But recent shifts in the food economy, like those reported by the Wall Street Journal, show that many traditional snack foods are being passed over for items with more staying power, like meat snacks, cheese crisps, and protein shakes. It's all part of a bigger movement toward eating with intention.

Weight loss drugs that suppress appetite have played a surprising role in this shift. As the New York Times notes, people taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic are no longer snacking out of boredom—and when they do eat, they want their meals to matter. That means fewer chips, more chicken.

Can You Have Too Much Protein?

The short answer: yes. Just because protein is good doesn’t mean more is always better.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, most people only need 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. That’s about 54 grams per day for someone who weighs 150 pounds. Athletes and active folks may need more, but the trend of overloading protein—especially in processed forms—can backfire. Healthline warns that excessive protein intake may stress the kidneys, lead to nutrient imbalances, and cause digestive issues (think bloating, constipation, or worse).

How to Make the Most of Your Protein

Protein-dense foods are only helpful if your body can actually break them down and absorb the nutrients. That’s where Digestive Enzymes come in. These powerful supplements help your body efficiently digest proteins, carbs, and fats—so you get more bang for your bite.

If you’re upping your intake of meat, dairy, legumes, or protein powders, consider taking a digestive enzyme with meals. Not only can this reduce bloating and discomfort, but it also ensures you’re not wasting the nutrients you’re working hard to include in your diet.

Don’t Forget Fiber, Carbs, and Fat

Protein is great—but balance is better.

One common mistake people make when increasing protein is forgetting other essential nutrients. Carbs and fats are not the enemy—they’re fuel. And fiber? It’s a gut health superhero. Cutting out too many carbs can make you feel sluggish, mess with your digestion, and leave you missing out on vitamins in fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

Despite the hype, the ultra-low-carb, high-protein keto lifestyle isn’t ideal for everyone. In fact, it can backfire if it leads to nutrient deficiencies or unsustainable habits. Instead of extreme diets, focus on balance: include protein in every meal, pair it with fiber-rich foods, and don’t fear a healthy dose of fat.

The Bottom Line

Protein can absolutely help you feel fuller, build lean muscle, and support your health goals—but it works best as part of a well-rounded diet. Whether you’re embracing meat snacks, protein shakes, or simply eating more whole foods, remember: digestion matters, moderation is key, and no single macronutrient is a magic bullet.

So go ahead—grab that protein bar. Just make sure you’re also getting in your greens, staying hydrated, and maybe popping a Digestive Enzyme with your next high-protein meal. Your gut (and your muscles) will thank you.

We've got answers if you have questions regarding our family of digestive health supplements. Contact us seven days a week at support@zenwise.com or (800) 940-2972, M-F, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.