The awareness regarding fitness is growing around the globe; people are choosing a better lifestyle for themselves with a good nutritional diet, regular workout sessions, yoga, meditation, etc. This growing awareness also brings many questions like what is good for one’s health and what is not? Many brands are emerging with a wide variety of products such as vitamin supplements, protein powder, etc. These products provide specific nutrients absent from one’s regular diet and give beneficial results. Protein powder is a popular product among fitness enthusiasts, and many brands manufacture them. The following are some of the benefits that protein has on the body.
It helps in the management of weight.
One of the main benefits of protein is that it makes the person feel full. After consuming a protein-rich diet or protein supplements, a person takes small portions of other food items, leading to weight loss. Many survey reports also claim that consumption of whey protein also leads to overall mass reduction and weight loss. Besides this, it also helps regulate blood pressure and the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases.
It helps in muscle growth.
Protein is also a vital micronutrient supplement that helps all bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts whose aim is to gain muscle growth and build good strength. However, before starting protein intake for a specific goal, it is crucial to understand the body’s requirements before beginning a protein-rich diet. Each body has different nutritional needs, and research always helps.
It helps in post-exercise recovery.
When a person is involved in excessive workout or strength training, the body experiences certain damages. In such a case, protein intake can help repair those damages. It not only helps in reducing muscle damage but also improves muscular performance. However, it is suggested that people who are either vegetarians or vegans can substitute a protein-rich diet with plant-based supplements and protein powders as there are limited protein-rich dietary options for vegetarians and vegans.
There are many benefits of protein consumption, but it also has certain disadvantages. For example, in case of excessive protein consumption can cause severe damage to one’s liver and increase the quantity of uric acid in the body. Hence it is better to consult a nutrition advisor or healthcare professional before starting protein consumption.
Other than knowing the benefits of protein intake. It is also essential to thoughtfully understand the types of protein supplements to choose the best supplement as per their body requirements.
Types of Protein supplements
- Whey protein is a type of water-based milk protein rich in amino acids and completes the body’s protein requirements. Hence, it is the most popular protein supplement available in the market.
- Casein is a glutamine-rich protein supplement best suited for post-exercise muscle recovery. However, its digestion speed is comparatively slow.
- Soy is considered the best substitute for whey and casein for vegans because it is not of a dairy origin.
- Pea-based protein supplement is rich in amino acids and completes the body’s protein requirements. It is famous among vegans who are also fitness enthusiasts.
- Hemp is an emerging protein supplement that is very rich in fatty acids. It is a good substitute for people allergic to dairy or soy.
The benefits mentioned above and various types of protein supplements can be helpful for all fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious people who aim to achieve a specific fitness goal or want to lead a healthy lifestyle.