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Powdered Protein
Heavily advertised protein supplements, powders and food bars
represent a large portion of sales at gyms and health food stores. Touted as a convenient way to maintain proper nutrition, these products have virtually become a staple in the American diet. The question is, do they really help the body replenish its protein stores and maintain muscle?
The answer to this question appears to be yes. Studies show that adults consuming supplements as the main source of protein are able to meet protein needs. However, long-term effects of protein isolates as a dietary staple are not known.1 The best advice is to use protein supplements as additions to a healthy diet.
Unless a consumer has food allergies, any type of protein supplement seems to work as well as another. In a study of eight students at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, soy was as effective as egg (highest protein quality) at maintaining protein balance.2 Furthermore, soy, egg, and whey all seem to be equally effective in meeting an adult's protein needs. Some data suggest that for dairy protein, whey may be better tolerated than casein. This is extrapolated from infant studies, and not confirmed in adult models.3
If your customers' protein intake is less than optimal, a powdered supplement may be a convenient way to remedy this. Just be sure they buy the most natural product available, and remember that protein from food sources is the most cost-effective and healthy means of building and maintaining muscle.
— A.C.
References
1. Food and Agricultural Organization/World Health Organization/United Nations University (FAO/WHO/UNU). Report of Expert Work Group on Energy and Protein Requirements. WHO Technical Report Series No. 724. Albany (NY): WHO Publication Center; 1985.
2. Young VR, et al. Evaluation of the protein quality of an isolated soy protein in young men: relative nitrogen requirements and effect of methionine supplementation. Am J Clin Nutr 1984; 39:16-24.
3. Juvonen P, et al. Development of immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin E antibodies to cow's milk proteins and ovalbumin after a temporary neonatal exposure to hydrolyzed and whole cow's milk proteins. Pediatrics Allergy Immunol 1999;10(3):191-8.
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