Going to the gym can be discouraging when you see so many other people in better shape. Guys with bulging biceps, girls with impossibly toned abs. Surely these people are on something. If by “on something,” you mean steroids, don’t be so quick to judge. There are a lot of good protein powders on the market that can enhance results in a legal, and more importantly, healthier way.
But where should you begin?
Egg Whites Protein
If it’s vitamins and minerals you’re after, you may wish to invest in egg protein powders. While these are often credited for lowering cholesterol, yolks weigh quite heavy, thus making just any egg protein powder poor for those interested in weight loss. However, egg-white powder eliminates this concern. You get all the vitamins and minerals, and you won’t have to keep a stranglehold on your diet.
Whey Out
After a hard workout, your muscles need time to recover. To help with the repair, whey protein is one of the best sources on the market. It’s like a straight shot of all the essential amino acids you need for the process, and if taken within 30 minutes of the end of a workout, it will produce the best results for future workouts. Whey protein powder is of special interest to bodybuilders intent on building mass, and for maximum results, it’s a good idea to take it before AND after your workout.
Lactose Intolerant? No Problem!
One of the drawbacks of whey protein is that it’s a milk protein. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) estimates that between 30 and 50 million Americans hold the condition of lactose intolerance, or a bodily rebellion against milk and other dairy products. If you are lactose intolerant, soy protein may be the way to go. It doesn’t taste or mix as well as whey protein, but it can enhance the nutritional value of the rest of your diet. As with whey protein, pay attention to amino acid composition when deciding on what is right for you.
It Does a Body Good
There is much to be said for going straight to the source. A cow’s milk contains protein that is divided into two disproportionate halves. For the first half, re-read the part of this article on whey protein. It comprises 20% of milk protein. The most dominant half is Casein, which comprises approximately 80%, and acts much slower, taking around two hours to reach its full potential. Once it has taken effect, Casein maintains amino acid highs for up to seven hours…a great source to use before bed!
18 Again
As your metabolism slows, and it becomes harder to maintain the rock-hard body you had in high school, it’s important you pay more attention to the foods and supplements that are entering your body. Knowing your body’s requirements is essential when finding the right substances to assist you on your journey back towards getting fit. You require protein more and more as the years pass, and Mother Nature has set aside the ingredients for everyone to reach their goals. By doing the research and determining what works best for you, you’ll be 18 again in no time. But don’t forget…you’ve got to do the work, too.
