Your Body Needs Protein

Protein is required by the body for the growth, maintenance, and repair of all cells.  Protein is a major component of all muscles, tissues and organs and is for particularly every process that occurs within the body such as metabolism, digestion and the transportation of nutrients and oxygen in the blood.

Expert nutritionists recommend that on average a person needs approximately .8 grams of protein per pound of body weight.  This means a 180 pound male should be consuming around 140 grams of protein.  On the other hand nutritionists recommend an athlete should consume between 1.2 to 1.4 grams of protein per pound of body weight.  Which means that same 180 pound male if lifting heavy and exercising should be consuming around 216 grams of protein.  This is where the addition of protein bars is especially necessary for anyone’s diet who is trying to add muscle.  

Too Much Protein

Protein intake is very important because too much protein can cause many serious side effects.

Some of those side effects are intestinal irritation, increased liver enzymes, risk of heart disease, and kidney problems.  Consumption of protein is critical to a successful diet.  Make sure you have a balanced diet including lots of fiber.

Too Little Protein

 On the other hand, too little protein has side effects as well.  Fatigue, loss of muscle, weak bones, and frequent infection are some of the serious side effects of too little protein. 

Don’t forget your Protein

As you can see there is a lot to think about when considering your protein intake.  Nutrition is a serious business and staying on top of it will bring you great rewards.  Make sure you exercise regularly and build a solid diet around quality types of protein.

Most Popular Types of Protein

There are many types of protein out there and it can be confusing when you don’t know how they work or how they differ from one another.  I will break down the most popular types of proteins and the uses for each to try and clear it up.

• The first types of protein I will cover is Whey protein.  Whey protein is derived from cows milk, considered a high quality complete protein, and is quickly digested.  This protein is a great start for beginners and is fairly inexpensive.  Whey protein can be used as a snack or before and after your workout.  Whey protein is not recommended to be consumed at night.

• The next protein that I will cover is Casein protein.  Casein protein takes approximately 5 -7 hours to break down in your body causing a steady flow of amino acids into your bloodstream.  Because of the lengthy break down time Casein protein is perfect for a meal replacement or at bedtime.  Casein protein provides your muscles with hours of repair and maintenance.

Fast Digesting Types of Protein

• Other types of protein is Whey Isolates.  Whey Isolates is filtered to remove the lactose, and is one of the purest, quickest absorbing proteins available.  Although a bit expensive Whey Isolates is perfect for low carb diets due to its low or non existent sugar content.  Fast absorbing for speedy muscle recovery.

• Finally there is Soy protein.  This type of protein is not recommended for bodybuilding, but is a good source of vegetarian protein.  Soy Protein helps support healthy cholesterol and speeds up the metabolism which aids in fat loss.  Great for a snack, or can be used pre and post workout.

What are your favorite Types of Protein

As you can see there are many types of protein out there ,and they all help in different ways.  Everyone is different and you are going to have to find what works for you, your body, and your fitness goals.  Try one out and let me know how the protein you chose works for you.  I hope this helped and I am always available for questions on any types of protein.