Experts weigh in on the protein craze and how much our bodies need

From coffee to cereal, protein is taking center stage on store shelves and social media. It seems the macronutrient is showing up in more and more products as we're being told to hit our "protein goals."

But what is behind this new craze?

Dr. Beth Motley practices family and lifestyle medicine at Prisma Health. She says protein is one of three macronutrients, alongside carbohydrates and fat. However, she says protein plays an especially important role in our health as the building block of our muscles.

Even though protein is important, she says making sure you're eating a balanced diet is key.

"[When dieting] people are looking for one thing to focus on because it’s easier to focus on one thing," she said, "because that gives them a clearer path as to where they are going.”

Motley say