4 min read One popular study found that people who ate a lot of ultra-processed foods (like hot dogs) had more fat infiltrating their thigh muscles. However, experts say there are issues with the research protocol. Essential amino acids, especially leucine, are a key for muscle growth. Protein experts say our bodies don’t care if that leucine comes from a whey supplement or from foods like steak or hot dog. For most healthy individuals, muscle gains plateau at 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. HOT DOGS ARE as American as it gets. They’re the ultimate comfort food, a quick weeknight meal, and a grilling staple every 4th of July. Plus, hot dogs are technically a source of protein, so they should help with building muscle right? Well…it’s complicated. On social media you’ll hear two schools of thought. You have the wellness influencers raving about the importance of protein , waving ultra-processed , high-protein bars, shakes, and snack foods before the camera.…