PROTEINS THAT PACK A PUNCH
Do you know what you are putting in your body?
Plant vs. Animal Protein
Protein is an essential macronutrient that the human body needs along with fat, carbohydrates, and water. The difference between plant and animal protein might lead most of us to wonder, “which type works well with my body?” The body breaks down protein into amino acids and uses them to rebuild tissues, but the main difference between plant and animal protein is its amino acid composition.
Plant-based protein is missing one or more of the nine essential amino acids whereas animal protein is composed of all nine. Depending on the type of plant- based protein you buy, some have what others lack. This means that if you consume a variety of proteins whether in the meals you eat throughout the day, or through different plant-based proteins, you should get what you need.
Protein Balance and Muscle Synthesis
Stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels is done by balancing protein intake throughout the day, each time you eat, which stimulates muscle synthesis. 20-30 grams of protein are needed around three or four times each day for repair and growth.
If your body is not getting enough protein, it may be hard to maintain and build muscle. As we age, muscle tissue breaks down faster and less muscle mass means a slower metabolism. Eating more protein does not cause muscle growth, but exercise, along with 20-30 grams of protein every few hours, will improve muscle synthesis.
Finding the Right Protein for You
Choosing the right protein is unique to your own body and having recommendations available to you is helpful, so here are some of HCI’s favorite protein powders from the AIM (Athletes in Motion) trainers!
BRYAN LEWIS | GARDEN OF LIFE
Garden of Life is an Organic, Non-GMO Verified, plant-based protein powder with added probiotics and enzymes to promote digestion. Garden of Life is a “complete” protein powder which means it provides all the amino acids.
JESSIE BETHKE | GOLD STANDARD
Gold Standard is considered the world’s best-selling whey protein powder. Benefits include post-workout support and recovery with 5.5 grams of natural BCAAs per serving.
CURTIS FELLENZ | UPPER ECHELON
Upper Echelon (whey protein isolate) has a complete amino acid profile and is particularly high in L-Leucine, which is crucial for building muscle. Research has shown that whey protein isolate is one of the best options for post-workout recovery because it is the purest form of whey protein, and it digests quickly. As a bonus, use code FELLENZ for 20% off the protein powder!