Question: Are there any studies that you know of that “prove” protein is indeed the dietary ingredient used primarily for muscle building? I have read articles where dieticians argue that the emphasis on protein in the body building industry is only a theory.

Answer: There are dozens of published studies on protein needs and protein metabolism in bodybuilders and other hard training athletes. The leading researcher in the field is Dr. Peter Lemon.

First of all, we know from nitrogen balance studies that protein foods are indeed the raw building material for muscle tissue and other body proteins. 60-70% of the body’s protein is found in muscle tissue. In order for muscle growth to occur, you must consume more protein than you utilize. All macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates and fats) contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, but only protein contains nitrogen. Because muscle tissue contains most of the body’s protein and protein contains nitrogen, we can study protein usage in the body by measuring the amount of nitrogen consumed versus the amount excreted (in feces, urine and sweat). If the intake of nitrogen is greater than the amount excreted, then we know that protein is being retained and new muscle is synthesized. If you excrete more nitrogen than you consume, you are in negative nitrogen balance, indicating that protein is being broken down and muscle is being lost.
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Posted on April 1st, 2008 by Lori Braun
Filed under: Health | 1 Comment »

If you’re one of the many people out there who have incessant cravings for chocolate or peanut butter - or the combination of the two, a great protein powder to invest in is PVL’s Whey Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor.

As one of the top rating protein powders as far as taste is concerned, it’s a hot item on many’s supplement list.

Try mixing it into your oatmeal in the morning, with your cottage cheese as a late-night snack, or simply shake it up with some water or milk for the perfect post-workout treat.

Posted on January 29th, 2008 by Shannon Clark
Filed under: Health | No Comments »

You don’t have to resort to THIS to get your protein!

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative for some of the high-sugar granola bars out there, this recipe is a perfect choice. Packed with whole grain oats, raisins, a good dose of protein, and a small amount of olive oil to get your healthy fats in, it’s a great snack for when you hit that low during the mid-afternoon.

Ingredients:
2 cups rolled oats
8 scoops vanilla protein powder
1 cup raisins
1 and 1/3 cups unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup skim milk
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp maple extract
1/3 cup artificial sweetener

First blend one cup of the rolled oats until fine. Next, add the remaining oats along with the raisins, protein powder, sweetener, cinnamon, and salt. Once combined, add in the applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, and oil.
Next, cut out 8 squares of aluminum foil and spoon equal amounts of the mixture onto each square, pressing to form into a bar shape. From there, roll the edges of the foil inwards slightly and place them in a pre-heated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.

Posted on October 14th, 2006 by Shannon Clark
Filed under: Weight Loss | No Comments »