Protein is essential for muscle growth; however, it is important to understand that not all proteins are alike, despite having the same basic composition. So, what exactly do you need in terms of bodybuilding supplements?
Protein is required, but not just any protein. Nine of the 20 amino acids found in protein are not produced by our bodies. This means we’ll have to get them from food or supplements. Essential amino acids are amino acids that humans cannot synthesis from metabolic intermediates. Because the human body lacks the metabolic mechanisms to produce certain amino acids, they must be obtained through food to maintain excellent health and normal functioning.
Amino acids are categorized as either essential or non-essential in nutrition. These classifications arose from early human nutrition research that revealed that some amino acids are vital to the growth or nitrogen balance even when other amino acids are present in sufficient amounts. Of the 20 amino acids common to all life forms, the nine amino acids humans cannot synthesize are phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, and histidine. The non-essential can be excluded from a diet because the human body can synthesize them using only the essential amino acids.
In terms of nutrition, a single complete protein can provide all nine essential amino acids. By definition, a complete protein has all of the essential amino acids. Except for soy, complete proteins are usually derived from animal-based sources. Incomplete proteins, which are frequently found in plant-based foods, also contain essential amino acids. The expression “limiting amino acid” refers to the essential amino acid found in the smallest amount in a food protein when compared to a reference food protein such as egg whites.
Bodybuilding supplements that include the protein we need are evaluated considerably more rigorously. The Food and Agricultural Organization developed a method for determining protein quality. High-quality proteins are ones that closely or exactly match what we need as humans, while low-quality proteins are those that are deficient. Generally, low-fat dairy products, fish, lean meats, egg whites, and soy products have long been known to be the best sources of protein. But, likely, you won’t have the time to prepare and eat these foods daily in the quantities required, which is where bodybuilding supplements come in.
Protein powders, bars, gels, and meal replacement drinks are all recommended by experts as ways to complement your diet. These supplements are quite convenient, and they make it simple to evaluate if you’re receiving enough protein in your diet. However, these supplements should not be used to substitute food, as this is unhealthy and dangerous.
Hormones, supplements, nutrients all have a role in muscle growth. These compounds are necessary for a variety of biological mechanisms, including energy production, muscle building, recovery, mood enhancement, and strength and endurance improvement. Both fats and carbs are stored in the body for later use. Carbohydrates are stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen, which is then broken down and used as fuel as needed. Amino acids, on the other hand, are not stored in the body. Every day, the amino acids you eat flow throughout your body. Many are used to build muscle and tissues, some are burned directly as fuel, while all of the extra amino acids you consume are expelled in your urine. When you don’t get enough essential amino acids, your body will cease making proteins. If this situation persists, your body will begin to break down to feed your vital organs.