Saturday, January 26, 2008

How whey protein can build strength and help recovery

Syntrax NectarIf you’re on the look out for a supplement that can help you in your strength training or to recover from an injury, then whey protein may be just the thing for you Whey protein is set apart from all the other sources of protein because it is a naturally complete protein. This means that it contains all the essential amino acids required in the daily diet. The body needs both essential and non-essential amino acids for it to function properly. We can make non-essential amino acids from other amino acids in our body, but we can only get essential amino acids by eating high quality protein foods.

Protein is essential for a variety of roles in the body, including the control of many of the important processes in the body related to metabolism and the building and repairing of muscles and bones. It is also necessary for the repair of body cells. You can obviously get protein from sources such as fish, eggs and meat, but since whey protein is such an excellent source of amino acids and it is easily digestible, it is widely used by athletes and body builders. The body requires higher amounts of amino acids during and following exercise, as they are taken up directly by the skeletal muscles. Many athletes also find it beneficial to have a whey protein drink immediately after exercise to help repair and rebuild lean muscle tissue.

Whey protein alone will not build strength and help recovery, however. You should also try to get lots of rest. Sleep and rest are even more necessary than usual when you are putting your body under a lot of strain or your body needs to recover from an injury. The body needs time to rest and repair itself by drawing on the nutrients that you feed it. Most cell and tissue regrowth happens during the night when you are asleep.

It may be that you are not getting enough protein in your daily diet, especially if you consume a lot of processed meals. Processed meals contain fewer vitamins and minerals than freshly prepared, home-made food. Vegetarians should particularly make sure that they are getting the right amount of protein, by eating a range of foods such as eggs, cheese, tofu, soya and pulses. By taking a whey protein supplement at times when you need it most, you can ensure that you get a healthy, high protein diet.

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