Monday, 08 June 2009

• Where's Your Protein Source?

  
  

  
  

  
  Protein is an essential nutrient for the body, especially for the muscles. The general recommendation is an intake of around .3 grams of protein for each pound a person weighs. For athletes and bodybuilders, though, the requirement is higher because the body is working harder and demands more. The recommendation jumps from .3 to 1.25 grams for this group of people.
  
  It's not only how much protein you get though; it's also where it comes from that matters. While most of us get all the protein we need from our diets, athletes often need supplements to provide them with enough of this important nutrient. The protein used in protein supplements is nearly always from the same four sources. Each is used differently by the body and are more or less suitable for different individuals.
  
  These four sources used in most protein supplements are egg, whe, soy and casein. There are protein supplements which use only one type, but it is more common to have two of these proteins in a single supplement.
  
  Whey protein comes from milk and is the most common of these four sources used to produce protein supplements. This protein contains essential amino acids (those which we cannot produce ourselves and must take in through dietary sources) and nonessential amino acids. Except for people who are allergic to milk or have lactose intolerance (who should avoid whey protein), this is a great source of protein which is readily digested. Concentrated whey contains 30%-85% protein and is inexpensive, making it a common ingredient in protein supplements. Whey protein isolates contain around 90% protein by weight, but are far more costly. Whey protein helps improve immune function and speeds muscle recovery in addition to being a good source.
  
  Soy protein is derived from soy flour. This is the most complete vegetable protein known and like whey protein, there are isolates and concentrated forms available; isolates are higher in protein but more expensive. Easily digestible, soy protein is suitable for everyone except for the small number of people who are allergic to soy. Soy protein can be added to foods easily and is beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol.
  
  Egg protein comes from egg whites. It is fat free and very high in protein. It contains all the essential amino acids and is completely absorbed by the body. It is considered the best protein source. It should not be used by people who have egg allergies.
  
  Casein is another protein derived from milk. Casein protein is digested more slowly than whey, which makes it a protein often combined with other, more quickly digested proteins. Casein protein is ideal for adding to pre-workout meals or before bed. As with whey protein, those with milk allergies should avoid casein protein.
  
  Choosing the right protein is about choosing what your body will tolerate the best and what protein will work for your exercise habits the best. You should consider all pros and cons of each type before you make your final decision about protein supplements.
  
  Post written by Henrick Scofers and posted on health-and-fitness-buzz.blogspot.com. Henrick Scofers is considered to be an expert on muscle supplements and the effects of protein supplements. He has recently studied the effects of  RaNisa Naturals supplements, which has proven to give excellent results. To learn more about RaNisa Naturals protein supplements, follow this link.
  
  
  

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