Body builders these days almost always work out with a protein shake. Even though nutritionists insist that food is enough to supply our daily protein needs, many still patronize protein supplements seeing the wondrous effects it gives when taken with a healthy diet. What exactly are the contents of a protein shake? And what unadulterated protein blends are found in them that help keep gym buffs strong, lean, fit, and bulky? Whey, casein, and soy are three of the main proteins usually contained in the protein shake.

Whey is the most commonly used protein in protein blends as it is the only protein which can be absorbed by the body in as little as 30 minutes. Whey consists of high levels of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, and also branched-chain amino acids. Body builders benefit from these amino acids during muscle recovery. When muscles are torn or worn out after exercising and weight lifting, amino acids are responsible for the repair and regeneration process. Whey also has the most amount of amino acid cysteine, which aids in glutathione biosynthesis; this is an antioxidant that protects cells from peroxides and free radicals. Glutathione also plays a role in protein generation and amino acid transport.

Meanwhile, casein or milk protein is the protein that gives glutamine and casomorphin to the muscles. Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid found in the body’s muscle.  However, massive amounts are also lost upon exercise which is why the body may call for supplements. Glutamine is also useful in treating serious illness, burns, trauma, injury, and treatment-related side effects of cancer. Its healing tendencies are also useful for muscle repair. Casomorphin is the one that provides the body with histamine. Another type of protein comprised by a protein shake which has isoflavones and phytoestrogen, is the soy protein.  Isoflavones also have antioxidant properties while phytoestrogens help control cholesterol levels and fight certain diseases like heart disorders. {The other two proteins found in the protein shake are the egg albumin, which is ideal for intake by body builders as it is lactose-free and dairy free; and the hemp seed, which constitutes complete and highly digestible proteins and essential fatty acids.}