Picking the Right Protein

Protein Perks

Protein goes beyond building muscles….it is quite important for many other functions such as nutrient transport, hormone production, neurotransmitter synthesis, as well as weight management and hair and nail growth. Protein can also help curb cravings, preserve lean muscle while reducing body fat, and support muscle recovery from those intense workouts!

Proteins are required for both structural and functional roles throughout the body. Proteins are required to create hormones and antibodies, as well as to transport nutrients, act as structural components and function as enzymes that assist in many chemical reactions throughout the body. Protein is found in almost every part of our body, including tissues, muscles, bones, skin and hair. In fact, our weight is made up of roughly 75 percent protein! 

It is always a good idea to have some kind of safety snack ready to dig in to when you’ve had a long day at the office and all you want to do is head to the gym and crush your workout. Whether it be in your desk drawer, gym bag or commuter backpack, protein powders are a great go-to snack to keep on hand to ensure that you are sticking to your diet, while also avoiding extreme dips in blood sugar, which can leading to cravings.

-Try and chose blood type appropriate protein powders: Blood Type O’s do best on whey protein, Blood type A’s and B’s will do better on plant base proteins. If you find yourself bloated or having digestive issues post workout chances are it isn’t blood type compliant. For an added bonus, choose organic grass-fed sources.

Research shows that grass Fed products have superior nutritional benefits including higher levels of omega-3s, are richer in antioxidants including Vitamin E, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C. Grass fed beef also have higher levels of CLA an essential fatty acid that helps prevent cancer and fights fat.

-Avoid soy proteins: About 90% of soy is genetically modified, and causes a whole host of problems such as interfering with your thyroid function, disrupting endocrine functioning, increasing risk of cancer and decreasing libido.

-Know the difference: Concentrate versions of protein have a low lactose level that is well tolerated by most lactose-sensitive people. Isolates are typically lactose free for those who are very sensitive to the low-lactose levels found in whey concentrates and have a bit thinner of a consistency.