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Protein

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 20.11.2021
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Protein (protein) - an important component of muscle tissue, an organic substance from the group of polypeptides, which includes chain amino acids, is one of the main dietary components. It's no secret that protein is very important for muscle growth nutrient, 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 are the functions of the protein?

  • Catalytic - increases the rate of energy metabolism and metabolism reactions in the body.
  • Transport - provides connection and transportation of substances from one body to another.
  • Protective - is carried out with the help of antibody proteins, which are produced by the body. They are responsible for the fusion of the necessary components and the neutralization of harmful substances that accumulate in the body as a consequence of various unfavorable factors.
  • Contractile - provides muscle contraction with actin and myosin.
  • Structural - is the basis of the structure of the cell, proteins participate in the construction of cell membranes and formations within cells.
  • Hormonal - is performed with the help of proteins that regulate metabolism.
  • Nutritional - it is carried out with the help of spare, or nutritious, proteins.

On how much the body is supplied with proteins, the state of health, physical activity depends, and in young children - and mental development. As a result of deficiency of protein in the body, liver pathologies can develop, the functioning of the internal secretion organs, as well as the defenses of the body, can be disrupted. 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 - a widespread, affordable and highly digestible protein, improves the body's defenses, which is necessary for increased energy metabolism. Supplements containing whey protein often contain vitamins and minerals. Whey protein is able to improve the absorption of calcium, as well as the state of the intestinal microflora. When you use this protein should take into account its properties are not only easy to digest, but also quickly removed from the body. Therefore, such a protein must be consumed more often than others to ensure the timely replenishment of protein in the body.
  • Milk protein with a small amount of fat can increase the resistance of the body, have a positive effect on the restoration and buildup of muscles, characterized by an average rate of assimilation. Some of its components are whey protein (about twenty percent) and casein (eighty percent), as well as dairy carbohydrates. Milk protein has a positive effect on weight correction, can be used to get rid of excess weight, as well as to protect the muscles from exhaustion. Well suited to people who lead an active lifestyle, as well as professionally engaged in sports.
  • Soy protein can eliminate the negative effects of overly active loads, accelerate the process of muscle growth, increases their strength properties. Soy protein is considered one of the most valuable types of protein in the diet, thanks to it you can prevent the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system, adjust body weight, strengthen the bones. Vegetable soy protein contains amino acids (for example, lysine and glutamine) by thirty-five percent more than other types of protein. Soy protein is also indicated for individual intolerance to the milk protein. It should be borne in mind that with the constant continuous use of this type of protein in men, there may be disruptions in the endocrine system.
  • Egg protein - has a fairly high bioactivity, despite the fact that it is not often found in the form of a separate product. It affects the processes of secretion of anabolic hormones, consists of sulfur-containing acids, does not contain carbohydrates.
  • Casein - allows a long time to maintain the invulnerability of muscle tissue, has anti-catabolic properties.

Balanced and active nutrition of the body, necessary for athletes, also involves the use of special additives, which are many. Particularly important role in this case is given to protein supplements, which, in turn, are divided into two types: additives with a pure protein content (promote the recovery of muscles as a result of injuries after physical exertion) and geynery (serve for muscle building, used mainly by athletes, professionals). With active sports, in order to find the right protein for you, it is better to contact a specialist who will choose the right drug and prescribe the appropriate dosage.

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