Protein

Protein (protein) is an important component of muscle tissue, an organic substance from the group of polypeptides, which includes amino acids connected in a chain, is one of the main dietary components. It is no secret that protein is a very important nutrient for muscle growth, which performs many important functions, in addition to the formation of muscle tissue, takes an active part in vital processes in the body. The most important sources of protein are dairy, fish, meat and grain products.

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What functions does protein perform?

• Catalytic - increases the speed of energy exchange reactions and metabolism in the body.
• Transport - ensures the connection and transportation of substances from one organ to another.
• Protective - is carried out with the help of protein antibodies, which are produced by the body. They are responsible for the fusion of necessary components and the neutralization of harmful substances that accumulate in the body as a result of various unfavorable factors.
• Contractile - ensures muscle contraction with the help of actin and myosin.
• Structural – forms the basis of the cell structure; proteins take part in the construction of cell membranes and formations inside cells.
• Hormonal - performed with the help of proteins that regulate metabolism.
• Nutritional - is carried out with the help of reserve, or nutritional, proteins.

The state of health, physical activity, and in young children, mental development depend on how much protein the body is supplied with. As a result of protein deficiency, liver pathologies may develop in the body, the functioning of the endocrine organs may be disrupted, as well as the body's defenses. Optimal protein content in consumed foods improves the regulatory function of the cerebral cortex, increases the tone of the central nervous system.

Types of protein

• Whey protein is a widely distributed, accessible and highly digestible protein that improves the body's defenses, which is necessary with increased energy metabolism. Supplements containing whey protein often contain vitamins and minerals. Whey protein can improve calcium absorption, as well as the state of intestinal microflora. When using this protein, you should take into account its properties of not only being easily digestible, but also being excreted from the body quite quickly. Therefore, such protein should be consumed more often than others to ensure timely replenishment of protein in the body.
• Milk protein with a small amount of fat content can increase the body's resistance, have a positive effect on muscle recovery and growth, and is characterized by an average absorption rate. Some of its components are whey protein (about twenty percent) and casein (eighty percent), as well as milk carbohydrates. Milk protein has a positive effect on weight correction, can be used to get rid of excess weight, and to protect muscles from exhaustion. It is well suited for people who lead an active lifestyle and are professional athletes.
• Soy protein helps eliminate the negative effects of overly active loads, accelerates muscle growth, and increases their strength properties. Soy protein is considered one of the most valuable types of protein in a diet, thanks to it you can prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases, adjust body weight, and strengthen bones. Vegetable soy protein contains amino acids (for example, lysine and glutamine) thirty-five percent more than other types of protein. Soy protein is also indicated for individual intolerance to milk protein. It should be taken into account that with constant continuous use of this type of protein in men, disorders in the endocrine system may occur.
• Egg protein – has a fairly high bioactivity, despite the fact that it is rarely found as a separate product. It affects the secretion of anabolic hormones, consists of sulfur-containing acids, does not contain carbohydrates.
• Casein - allows you to maintain the invulnerability of muscle tissue for a long time, has anti-catabolic properties.

Balanced and active nutrition of the body, necessary for athletes, also involves the use of special supplements, of which there are a great many. A particularly important role in this case is given to protein supplements, which, in turn, are divided into two types: supplements with pure protein content (promote muscle recovery as a result of damage after physical exertion) and gainers (serve to build muscle, used mainly by professional athletes). If you are actively involved in sports, in order to choose the right protein for you, it is better to consult a specialist who will select the right drug and prescribe the appropriate dosage.