Whey Protein and Why It's a Must For the Fitness Minded

The key building block within the human body that unlocks muscular development and repair is protein. The mere fact that protein makes up about 75% of the solids in the body, makes it an essential ingredient that must be maintained in order to stay healthy. It is often the highest priority for elite athletes because of its physical benefits. Yet, the average exerciser on most occasions, neglects proteins wonderful advantages.

The molecules of protein are made up of amino acid chains and are quite intricate. It is a chemical structure containing nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and often sulphur. For sustaineed human life protein in absolutely essential. Many consider that protein is a vital ingredient only for the top athlete or those wanting to build their muscle form and structure. Wrong. Protein is a must for all. It plays the highly important role of muscle and tissue repair and development and a major player in every persons overall health.

Muscle growth and toning occurs when tiny tears occur within the muscle tissues as we exercise. As these tears repair, muscle development takes place. The key ingredient in the building blocks of muscle recovery and repair is protein. We get this protein from a variety of foods. The down side is that the fasterv the protein arrives at the muscle after exercise the quicker and more effective this process becomes. The best way to ensure your muscles are taken care of is by delivering protein to them via a whey protein shake. Protein shakes get to the required area within 30-40 minutes as opposed to food which can take many, many hours. My advice is to definitely supplement with protein but always head for a food authority accrediated and dairy licenced brand.

When is the best time to consume protein shakes is a question I'm commonly asked. Personally I feel there are three optimum times. The first being immediately after exercise so as protein can get straight to the muscles to do its recovery and growth job. Foods high in protein are also necessary here but will take way longer to arrive at the muscles to start repair. It is also alot easier for one to down a drink rather than food after an intense workout. Breakfast is another top time for proetin shakes to be consumed as the body will need replenishing after a nights sleep. Before bed at night is also an excellent time as it will keep your metabolism functioning at a high level. Almost losing weight while you sleep!

There are many types of protein, yet Whey Protein is by far the most popular choice of those seeking muscle growth, a toned body and overall improvement in health. However, many do opt for the alternate Soy Protein in slimming products as Soy has lean muscle mass benefits. We strongly advise that you continue to consume healthy natural foods high in protein in partnership with your protein supplement.

You will probably receive varying advice in regard to the amount of protein required in your diet depending on the intensity of your workouts, your body size and what shape you are aiming for. Despite this, protein is an extremely intelligent additive to todays diet given our haphazard eating patterns that have to fit in with the rat race of life. But as general guide 10grams per 4.5kg/10pounds of body weight is good. So if your weight sits at 100kg then 220grams of protein is recommended. 90kg then 220gm, 80kg then 175gm, 70kg then 155grams of protein.

It is widely considered that you cannot take too much protein. However, if you do take excessive amounts it can lower the amount of magnesium and calcium in the body and I would suggest you supplement your diet with added calcium and magnesium. However, if you stick to the guide of protein to body weight it will keep you in the recommended intake.

Protein is also considered a key by many when it comes to weight loss, slimming and fine body toning. The beneficial nature of a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is supported by much of the most recent evidence. Stanford University conducted a large randomized study and noted that females following such a diet had a decrease in body weight and overall experienced more favorable metabolic effects at 1 year than in other diets. The study tracked 311 pre-menopausal women, that were also non-diabetic, age 25-50.

Natural high protein foods are: meat, fish, eggs, milk, legumes and beans. Because intense muscular workouts use high amounts of protein as energy it is important that the body has lots of protein to use for muscle development, growth, recovery and repair. Protein supplements such as Glutamine and Whey Protein provides high quality protein that can be easily taken when your body requires it most.

Article Source: http://www.bodyformind.com/db

Colin Johnson has been an elite sports trainer, drug lecturer and father of five all in one lifetime. He highly recommends whey protein shakes for muscle recovery, shaping and development. Colin can be contacted at admin@protein4health.com to answer all your questions relating to supplements.

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