Rapid Fat Loss Diets

Monday, August 3, 2009

Casein Protein, How Much is Too Much?

By P. Kaplan

Supplement manufacturers have done a wonderful job of confusing the fitness wanting public. For the last five years the bodybuilding community has gobbled up whey protein.

Eventually a research studies showed that due to its quick stomach emptying properties most of the protein consumed via whey protein is metabolized (burned up by liver enzymes). The whey manufacturers first responded by increasing the number of grams per serving. More protein would have to be consumed, thus more protein is sold.

Soy found its popularity primarily among vegetarians. The Soy companies watched as whey protein sales skyrocketed, thus, in order to grab their own position, they capitalized within a "health" marketplace, primarily targeting women. Many of the referenced studies are valid, but are not representative of "the whole picture."

One study looked at two groups of healthy middle aged men that were given isocaloric meals with one group eating soy protein, while the other consumed animal protein. They wanted to find out if there is a decreased propensity of gallstones when animal products are replaced by soy proteins. Very often gallstone accumulation is tied to cholesterol crystallization, so they then examined the participants cholesterol levels.

Findings from that study demonstrated that cholesterol crystallization was decreased in the soy group. This finding led to the idea that soy can aid in preventing gallstones. The study failed to show some important things. There was no control over vegetable and fruit consumption. Soy is part of the group of vegetables that are high in isoflavones.

There are many benefits associated with the consumption of isoflavones, including a lowering of cholesterol levels. Contrarily, research has shown that the ingestion of meat is associated with an elevated cholesterol levels. This is not to say that people who eat soy will be healthier and have a better cholesterol profile than those who consume meat and vegetables. This just goes to show you that extrapolations drawn from research is often taken out of context and overemphasized.

Scientific studies indicate that there are cancer defeating benefits of a meal plan rich in vegetables like soy. Most people would not assume that people who ingest soy instead of milk, egg-whites, and lean protein will demonstrate improved health, if a exercise ingredient is included, the study would be invalidated.

Most of the research information promoted specific to soy is publicized by organizations with a vested interest in Soy Protein sales, such as The United Soybean Board. This does not mean that soy is not a good source of protein, but rather that the health benefits, as is commonplace, have been taken out of context and overblown to sell products.

From a metabolic benefit standpoint, it appears based on the most recent and applicable studies, that you are best off getting your supplemental protein from a mix of whey and casein. Watch as the newest protein supplements to hit the market feature this mix. Unless you are vegetarian, I'd suggest you're best off including as wide a variety of foods as possible in your complete dietary regimen. If this includes a daily soy protein supplement I believe you'll do quite well. - 17273

About the Author:

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]

<< Home