
Why Amino Acids?
Proteins need to be metabolized into their simplest form (amino acids) order to be effectively used by the body.
There are 20 amino acids which are needed for human growth and metabolism.
Twelve amino acids (eleven in children) are termed as non-essential; this means that they can be metabolized by the body and need not to be consumed in the diet.
However, the remaining amino acids cannot be synthesized in the body and are known as essential amino acids; this means that they need to be consumed in the diet.
A deficiency of any of these amino acids will compromise the ability of tissue to grow and be repaired or to be maintained.
Comparison of Amino Acids Profiles in Common Proteins (mg Amino Acid/g protein)
Amino Acid | Human Milk | Cow Milk | Egg | Beef | Soy | Whey |
Histidine | 26 | 27 | 22 | 34 | 19 | 16 |
Isoleucine | 46 | 47 | 54 | 48 | 49 | 54 |
Leucine | 93 | 95 | 86 | 83 | 82 | 89 |
Valine | 55 | 64 | 66 | 50 | 48 | 82 |
Lysine | 66 | 78 | 70 | 89 | 64 | 88 |
Methionine | 42 | 33 | 57 | 40 | 26 | 32 |
Tyrosine | 72 | 102 | 93 | 80 | 92 | 65 |
Threonine | 4 | 44 | 47 | 46 | 38 | 65 |
Tryptophan | 17 | 14 | 17 | 12 | 17 | 22 |
TOTAL | 421 | 504 | 512 | 482 | 432 | 513 |
Blue notes highest amino acid value. Red notes lowest amino acid value.
It can be concluded from the table above that Whey Protein is a pool of amino acids with only histidine and tyrosine being in slightly lower amounts. It can thus be easily used as a pre and post work out protein supplement to repair the worn- out muscles help to improve the overall performance of the person.
Whey protein is much better than Pea protein when compared in the table and can be an ideal supplement for athletes whose protein requirements increase due to increase in physical activity.
Protein Requirements according to the type of activity/training
Type of Training | Protein Req (g/kg body weight/day) |
Sedentary | 0.8-1.0 |
Endurance Training | 1.2-1.4 |
Strength Training | 1.8 |
Strength/Power Training | 1.4-1.8 |
Resistance Training | 1.4-2.4 |
As the protein requirements increases, it is important to replenish the glycogen stores post work out. A proper combination of carbs, protein and fat is required to ensure consistent performance and expect good results.
DIET IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS - TEAM MIGHTYX
Leave a Comment