ProteinProtein: Information  Protein, along with carbohydrate and fat, is one of the three macronutrients required by humans. A protein consists of a specific combination of amino acids. Some proteins are as small as 2 or 3 amino acids (dipeptide, tripeptide) while others contain thousands. The body makes hundreds of different proteins, each suited for a special purpose. A substantial amount of protein is used for growth and maintenance of body structure like muscle, skin, bone, joints, hair, and nails. Proteins are used to produce the enzymes that make metabolism possible, along with digestion, fluid balance and pH regulation. Protein is a component of vital antibodies and immune factors. Key hormones like insulin and HGH are also made of protein.
When protein is digested, stomach enzymes break it down into free amino acids which get absorbed in the small intestine. The body assembles the proteins it needs 'from scratch' using available dietary amino acids or breaking down muscle tissue when diet doesn't provide enough.
Since only amino acids that are absorbed by the body, not a whole protein food itself, one important factor that makes a protein source better than another is how quickly and easily the body can break the protein down to free amino acids, then utilize them to build new structure. This is essentially the quality known as the Biological Value or BV of a protein. Protein supplements utilize protein sources with high BVs like whey and casein protein, and egg white protein. The Protein/Amino Acid Connection Proteins are digested by breaking them down into individual amino acids which occur in varying proportions depending on the protein source. In all, humans need a balance of 20 specific amino acids. 9 are known as essentialamino acids; they are essential in the sense that, like vitamins, the body cannot manufacture them and therefore they must come from the diet. The other non-essential amino acids can be produced when the diet provides insufficient amounts. Some amino acids like arginine and glutamine have been termed conditionally essential, meaning supplemental amounts are needed only in certain conditions.
Protein SupplementsProtein supplement powders and bars derive their protein from several sources. Whey protein, derived from milk, is very popular and the most-efficiently absorbed protein. Egg white protein, is a another high-quality protein source that's virtually cholesterol-free. Soy protein is the most popular of the vegetarian protein types, and also provides isoflavones which have antioxidant and hormone balancing properties. Rice proteins are an excellent option for vegetarians who want to avoid soy. Protein: How Much is Needed?Recommendations for protein consumption vary among experts but are frequently adjusted based upon individual circumstances and goals. A general recommendation for healthy non-athletes is to consume about 0.4 grams of protein per pound of ideal body weight, while athletes and bodybuilders may need from 0.8 up to 1.5 g of protein per pound of actual body weight. Using Protein Supplements Protein supplements are widely available in many forms and varieties: whey protein, egg protein, soy protein, and rice protein; bars and shakes; “low carb”, meal replacement proteins (MRP), ready-to-drink, weight gainers. Side-effects and Cautions:Do not use protein supplements as your sole source of protein or nutrition. Protein is already part of a balanced, healthy diet. Consult your physician or a nutritionists if you have questions about your specific protein requirements.
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Protein - Product List
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