Protein Supplements

About Protein Supplements

Protein is an essential part of a healthy well-balanced diet, containing nutrients called amino acids. Of these amino acids, there are nine that the body cannot synthesize, called the essential amino acids. Protein is naturally thermogenic compared to carbohydrates and fats, as it can elevate the metabolic rate due to increased gluconeogenesis in the liver and muscle protein synthesis. Protein supplements are concentrated products that are convenient, delicious and cost-effective, making them useful for a range of health, performance and recovery needs.

Protein Supplements may be used by anyone engaging in regular sports and exercise or for those who do not comsume enough protein in their daily diet. Vegan and vegetarian diets typically contain less quality protein sources, making plant-based protein supplements particularly beneficial in this instance. Protein supplements come in a wide range of forms, including shakes, cookies, bars and even protein-coated almonds. The protein in these products may be extracted from a variety of sources, such as legumes, dairy, egg and even meat.

Protein is made up of complex amino acids chains held together by peptide bonds. There are a range of conditionally essential and non-essential amino acids, such as glutamine and glutamic acid. Though these types of amino acids can be produced in the body, there are some instances when more can be beneficial. For instance, glutamine supplementation is useful for skin healing in cases of sunburn, and glycine is helpful for cartilage health in osteoarthritis.

Protein supplements are involved in a variety of body processes, such as the maintenance and repair of muscle tissue, the production of immunoglobulins, neurotransmitters, hormones and enzymes. Despite the popularity of high protein diets and supplements, they are more than vanity products that support muscle building. By providing readily absorbable amino acids in abundance, protein supplements promote wellness, optimal health, and sports and exercise performance and recovery.