Common nutrition myths answered by our fitness, health and wellbeing guru @DrEKirkeOstm

A magazine regular since the start, award-winning nutrition expert Dr Emma Kirke OSTM was one of the first names on our teamsheet when it came to BESTFIT TV. Each episode, she’ll be answering your nutrition questions. Like these…

Watch Dr Emma answer your questions on BESTFIT TV. Follow Emma on twitter @DrEKirkeOstm

I have heard of BCAAs, but what do they do?

BCAAs stimulate the protein synthesis before, during and after a workout. BCAA powder, by Multipower, contains the essential branched chain amino acids L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine and L-Valine in a 2:1:1 ratio.

Will all the carbs in a body-building diet give me diabetes?

Diabetes is a life-long condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. There are two main sorts of diabetes – type 1 and type 2. Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1. In the UK, around 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2. There are 3.9 million people living with diabetes in the UK, that’s more than one in 16 people in the UK (diagnosed or undiagnosed). Carbs will not cause diabetes unless they are in excess to your body’s needs, particularly in sugar form.

Why are there lots of eggs in my meal plan?

Eggs are a useful source of protein, iodine and essential vitamins, and they are almost indispensable to the cook. Hens’ eggs are the type of egg most frequently used in cooking. Duck eggs, gull eggs and quail eggs are less frequently used and are generally eaten on their own, rather than in baking. Quail eggs are small with dark-brown speckled shells. Duck eggs are larger than hens’ eggs and richer in flavour, lending a creamy depth to baked dishes.

Why should I take Casein and egg protein?

We all know that muscles adapt, grow and get stronger between training sessions. In order to maximise results you have to ensure deep restful sleep, and optimise your diet. Multipower’s Optimized Casein and Egg Protein is designed to support you through this process.

Why have I been advised to take a fish  oil supplement?

Oily fish is known for being a great combination of protein and essential fats. It is also one of the most effective natural anti-inflammatories, and it helps aid recovery when training hard. If your diet is not rich in a natural source then a supplement would be advisable. Examples include small forage fish, such as sardines, herring and anchovies, and other larger pelagic fish, including salmon, trout, tuna and mackerel. Oily fish can be contrasted with white fish, which contain oil only in the liver, and much less overall than oily fish.

Should I be taking glutamine?

L-Glutamine is a vital amino acid required by every muscle in the body, and is one of the most important building blocks in forming the proteins that maintain cellular health and tissue repair. It is also helps to support your immune system, and aids digestion!

How do I know if I am ‘eating healthily’?

Healthy eating means eating a variety of foods that give you the nutrients you need to maintain your health, which help you feel good, and which have energy. These nutrients include protein, carbohydrates, fat, water, vitamins, and minerals. Nutrition is important for everyone.

Watch all episodes on YouTube