Despite the sporting coloration of the term “protein” that has recently appeared, full-fledged protein products are needed not only by athletes. Protein cocktails and drugs are used today in many heavy industries, for medical purposes during the recovery period of patients, while feeding children. But, nevertheless, athletes are the main consumers of protein preparations.
And it is for them that the sports food industry offers a huge selection of various types of protein preparations.
What is the difference between concentrate and isolate
Modern sports protein preparations are, as a rule, concentrates or isolates of natural protein products. Distinguishing these two concepts from each other is not difficult. Here’s what they are:
1. Protein concentrate Is a protein product, devoid of most of the liquid.
2. Protein isolate Is a concentrate from which excess fats, cholesterol and carbohydrates have been removed. Essentially, an isolate is almost pure protein.
Most of the isolates used in sports supplements have a protein concentration of about 92 percent. This is a lot, and such drugs can only be used in diluted form. Of course, due to the greater complexity of the technology for obtaining protein isolate, it is more expensive than concentrated protein.
Protein types
Despite the huge variety of proteins, only a few types are most often used in sports products, most often obtained from milk or plant products. The following types are the leaders in popularity here:
1. Whey.
Extracted from whey, most often by boiling it. In this case, the protein itself curls up and forms flakes, which can be easily collected and processed. Whey protein is easy to digest – it is broken down in the body within two hours. As a result, it is optimal for consumption immediately after exercise.
2. Casein.
Made from milk. It takes significantly longer to be absorbed than whey, which is why professionals believe it is right to take it before bed.
3. Soy.
Contrary to popular belief, the composition of soy protein is no worse than animal proteins. Only it often leads to various stomach upsets – flatulence and diarrhea, and it smells worse. Therefore, soy protein is most often recommended for women in order to enrich the diet and hormonal stabilization.
4. Egg.
By its properties, it resembles casein. It is also absorbed for a long time, but at the same time it contains a full set of essential amino acids.
There is also another type of protein – protein products based on colostrum – a product that feeds newborn calves. The chemical composition of colostrum-based protein contains a large amount of proteins, fats, and many carbohydrates, but sports products made from colostrum are much more expensive than even relatively expensive traditional types.
How to take protein
The amount of protein required for consumption varies greatly depending on the age, gender, sport and the desired athletic performance of the athlete. However, the average daily intake of protein for maintaining muscle mass is approximately 2-3 grams per pound of body weight.
By simple calculations, you can calculate how much protein a training athlete needs per day. A cocktail containing 40% protein, the average man weighing 80 kilograms in conditions of regular high loads should drink at least 360 grams – one good large mug.
But it is better to coordinate these quantities with special tables and recommendations for the protein products themselves. In this case, the benefits of the protein will be maximized, and the negative properties will not appear at all.
Where to Buy Protein?
The most convenient way to buy protein is from online stores, where there is often a very large selection of both manufacturers and flavors. And it is often cheaper there than in gyms or brick-and-mortar stores, especially given the discounts offered to regular customers.
A large selection as well as weekly protein promotions are offered at the iHerb Online Store. Great prices and free worldwide shipping on orders over $ 40. There is also a bonus for those who have not ordered anything there yet – a 10% discount with a promotional code JLP325.
