Protein - Whey & Vegan Sources

Protein For Muscles

Whether you live a mostly sedentary lifestyle or are the athletic type, exercising most days of the week, protein is an essential nutrient that is responsible for a vast array of functions within the body and is found within all of the body’s cells. From a physiological perspective, protein is made up of amino acids that are attached to one another in long chains. In turn, there are 20 different kinds of amino acids, and the sequence in which these long amino acid chains are arranged determines the role of each particular protein. There are over 10,000 types of protein located in the various organs, muscles, and tissues (bones, skin, and hair) of the body.

As the second most abundant substance in our body (after water), protein is considered the building block of life. Getting an adequate amount of dietary protein is critical to maintaining muscle mass, as well as for energy production and carrying oxygen throughout the body. Protein is also intimately involved in the production of antibodies that fight off infections and illnesses and help keep cells healthy. When we do not meet our minimum protein requirements for any reason, the body has no choice but to catabolize protein from existing muscle and eventually from our organs to cover any deficit. This results in tissue breakdown and muscle loss. Long-term protein deficit can also lead to far more complex chronic conditions.

Benefits of Protein

• Helps Reduce Appetite & Supports Weight Loss
• Improves Body Composition
• Minimizes Age-Related Muscle Loss (Sarcopenia)
• Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar Metabolism
• Supports Muscle Building

How Does Protein Build Muscle?

Protein powder and other protein supplements are extremely popular among a wide range of consumer groups, including athletes and gym-goers, as well as those that live a fast-paced lifestyle that does not always allow for regular home-cooked meals. Protein powder supplements are also ideal for vegetarians and vegans that may not be getting adequate complete protein daily, as well as for anyone post-injury, post-surgery, or in convalescence, who's looking to speed up muscle protein synthesis and support tissue healing. A quality protein powder supplement is also an effective tool for those looking to shed some weight, reduce fat, enhance body composition, as well as control appetite and keep sugar cravings at bay.

Protein Supplements To Build Muscles

Protein supplements can come from a variety of different sources including whey, eggs, casein, rice, pea, soy, hemp, spirulina, and many more. They are widely available in powder blends, bars, and ready-to-drink shakes. Protein supplements can also be found in capsule form, though far less commonly. According to the Canadian Dietary Reference Intake guidelines, sedentary adult women require 46g of protein daily, while sedentary adult men require 56 g to maintain the body’s tissues and avoid deficiency. Look for a protein supplement that provides at least 20g of complete protein per serving (but read labels carefully, some formulas can contain up to 80g per serving).

Final Thoughts

When selecting your protein powder supplement, look for a formula that is organic, and non-GMO to avoid being exposed to potential allergens. You should also ideally select a blend that is sugar-free and naturally flavoured, that does not contain a long list of excipients, additives, and preservatives. Finally, if you're using protein to support your bodybuilding or workout efforts, you may want to look for a protein powder that has an added portion of BCAA’s (branched-chain amino acids) to further support muscle building and prevent catabolism, as well as other exercise performance support nutrients to maximize benefits.