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Pursuit of the Perfect Protein

Posted in Whole Food @ Aug 14th 2013 11:47am - By Exclusively You
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By now you’ve probably been inundated with different information about protein powders and supplements from various websites, fitness magazines and health figures. With so much speculation on the topic of protein it can often seem like an overwhelming and complicated process trying to find the perfect protein powder for you.

The bottom line is: everyone needs protein. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, increase muscle mass or tone your body, protein is essential. You will also need to increase the amount of protein you have if you are starting a new program, lifting heavier weights, recovering from an injury or becoming a vegetarian/vegan. Obviously we can obtain protein from food sources such as lean meats, eggs, fish and vegetables, but there is another alternative. Protein shakes have the purpose of giving our muscles what they need to build and recover as we sometimes don’t receive the level of protein our bodies require from ordinary meals.

There are so many different types of protein powders out there which may sound familiar to you including whey protein, brown rice protein, casein protein, egg white protein, hemp seed protein and pea protein. So what should you look for when purchasing the best one for YOUR body?

Firstly, you should understand what the source of protein is (whey, brown rice etc.) and if it is suitable for you e.g. whey is not suitable for lactose intolerant people. Then, make sure the powder contains at least 5 grams of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) and other essential amino acids. There are countless benefits amino acids have for your body such as anabolic muscle building and improving mental function and mood. Thirdly, like any other food product you would purchase, read the nutrition label! Look at the amount of calories and cholesterol the protein has and steer clear of nasty artificial sweeteners like aspartame. And lastly, make sure you enjoy the taste. There’s no point in purchasing a protein powder if you don’t like drinking it!

"When do I drink my protein shake?" It’s important to understand that the muscle building and repair process begins after your workout. So make sure you have your shake 20-60 minutes after your resistance or weight training session. Shakes are also suitable for snacks as they are refueling and filling!

Protein powder isn’t just for shakes, it can also be used in many snacks or meals like protein pancakes, energy balls, protein bars, oats and more. We have given you two simple and delicious recipes incorporating protein powder below… ENJOY!

Chocolate Protein Pancakes with Raw ‘Nutella’

Pancakes:

·         2 Egg Whites

·         1 Scoop Chocolate Protein Powder (you can use other flavors too)

·         ½ Large Banana

·         1 tbsp Organic Almond Milk

·         ½ cup Organic Oats

Blend together using a blender.

Add extra ingredients if necessary to achieve optimum consistency (not too thick, not too thin).

Cook with coconut oil on a non-stick pan.

Raw Nutella:

·         200g Raw Hazelnuts

·         ¼ cup Raw Cacao Nibs

·         1  tbsp Pure Vanilla Extract

·         ¼ cup Pure Maple Syrup

·         2 tbsp Coconut Oil (optional)

·         Pinch Sea Salt

Blend in processor.

Spread over pancakes.

Place banana slices, crushed hazelnuts and a dash of maple syrup on top of pancakes.

Simple Green Protein Smoothie

·         1 cup Water

·         2 Bananas

·         1 Scoop Protein Powder

·         1 tbsp spirulina

·         Handful spinach

·         1 tbsp coconut oil

·         1 tbsp chia seeds

Blend together in blender and enjoy! 

Comments

Jade Fisher @ Aug 14th 2013 1:44pm
yummmmmmm.. looks delicious. great article :D
Judy @ Aug 14th 2013 2:27pm
So which brands do you recommend? I still find them all confusing!

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