Many people have probably seen those huge jars of powder in the pharmacy section and questioned what they were. Those are protein supplements, once marketed almost exclusively to hardcore athletes and bodybuilders. These days, with the importance of protein a more mainstream concern, protein supplements come in many forms, available to anyone who has an interest in health.
Protein supplements are not part of a fad diet, at least not when used correctly. If they are part of a healthy diet, protein supplements can be extremely helpful in aiding you to reach your health goals, whatever they may be. Liquid protein supplements can even be used to replace meals for those on liquid diets. Those who enjoy solid food can have other supplements such as protein bars, which come in many flavors, even chocolate.
Protein Basics
Protein is a basic part of your body’s construction. In the case of muscles, it is the primary construction material used to build, maintain and even repair muscle tissue. Protein also creates hemoglobin and antibodies to deliver the oxygen you inhale to the rest of your body. Without protein, your muscles would never work or grow properly. The outer surface of skin, your nails and your hair are all protein. Protein builds strength by building muscles, which is why it is so popular among bodybuilders and athletes. A protein bar or protein shake is a great thing to have on hand during or after a workout.
There are 20 amino acids that make up the various forms of protein. Of these, 14 can be produced by the human body, but the others must be obtained through food sources or through protein supplements, such as the liquid protein, protein powder, and liquid protein shots all available through Protica at www.protica.com.
Many delicious foods, such as lean red meat and chicken, contain protein without being loaded with unhealthy components. Anyone who loves cheese will be pleased to know it is packed with protein – about 8 grams in 30 grams of cheddar or mozzarella. Just a half-cup of milk contains nine grams of protein.
People Who Need Protein Supplements
It’s been said before, but it bears repeating: protein supplements are not just for athletes anymore. If you’re trying to lose weight, protein supplements can help with that. If you would just like to be healthier and get into shape, protein supplements can help with that, too.
On average, the adult male needs about 63 grams of protein every day to keep his bones and muscles healthy. A weightlifter might need nearly three times that amount. Some people who are trying very hard to lose weight may try a liquid protein diet, while those who love junk food may need a bit of a protein boost, because their diets do not supply enough. There are few people who will not find some benefit from getting a bit more protein, and supplements are a perfect way to go about getting it.
There are some who will claim that protein supplements are dangerous, but they are no more dangerous than anything else if used in moderation. Having protein bars or shakes on a daily basis are fine, so long as there is other food. Everyone needs to have a balanced diet with all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
What Protein Supplements Are Made Of
Protein supplements come in many forms including liquids, powders or bars. All of them are made from differing food sources which are high in protein, some of which are better for certain individuals than others.
Whey: This is a popular type of protein supplement that is easy to find. It is made from dairy, as a byproduct of cheese production. It is quickly and easily assimilated by the body, which means it can be taken after a workout for immediate muscle repair and recovery. Powder supplements are a favorite of athletes for this very reason. Many find whey powder quite a bit easier to mix than some other protein powders – they prefer the taste as well. Because whey is derived from dairy, it should be avoided by anyone who is lactose intolerant.
Casein: Casein is not digested nearly as quickly as whey, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, because this means it lasts longer. It does not mix as easily as whey, either, though it does come in a number of flavored shakes. It is also more expensive than whey and should be avoided by those who are lactose intolerant.
Milk Protein: Both whey and caseins can be considered milk proteins, but there are other kinds as well, both the long-acting and short-acting kinds. Again, of course, this is not for anyone with lactose intolerance. Milk proteins are often higher in calories, fat and cholesterol than the others.
Egg Protein: This is protein derived from egg whites, also called egg albumin. It is made into a powder form and used as a component of many different supplements. Egg protein takes one to three hours to work after being taken. It works well for those who have difficulty with dairy, but should be avoided by anyone with egg or chicken allergies.
Soy: Do you have egg or chicken allergies? Are you lactose intolerant? If you are either of those, or just a vegan, soy is a good protein supplement for you. It has absolutely no cholesterol or saturated fats. It is also the only vegetable source of protein to contain all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Rice Protein: This is also something good for vegans and those allergic to eggs or chicken, or those who are lactose-intolerant. It has no gluten, is low in carbohydrates, low in fat, and low in calories, making it a wonderful choice for dieters. Rice protein is great for shakes and smoothies, and can even be sprinkled on food or added to various recipes.
The Various Forms of Protein Supplements
There is more to protein supplements than the basic liquids or powders. Here are some other options:
– Protein Powder: These can be mixed with beverages or sprinkled on food.
– Liquid Protein: This can also be mixed, but often come in flavors so they can be drunk without any mixing.
– Protein Shots: These are little vials of ready-to-drink protein, which can also serve as energy drinks in some cases.
– Protein Bars: Bars are a great snack for people on the go.
– Protein Capsules: These work for people who don’t even have time for a protein bar or a protein shot.
– Protein Shakes and Smoothies: Just mix with skim milk or juice, add fruits, berries and some ice for a protein-packed treat.
These are not only high in protein, but provide a number of other important vitamins and minerals as well.
Protica Research (Protica, Inc.) specializes in the development of Capsulized Foods. Protica manufactures Profect, IsoMetric, Pediagro, Fruitasia and over 100 other brands, including Medicare-approved, whey protein supplements for dialysis patients. You can learn more at Protica Research – Copyright