We’ve all heard that summer bodies are made in winter, so whilst you’re trying to escape the colder weather, be sure
not to fall out of your exercise routine.

Alongside exercise, nutrition plays a pivotal role in achieving your goals. Protein is an important nutrient for weight loss, maintaining a healthy weight as well as muscle growth and recovery. The source of protein you choose can also offer different benefits so here’s a quick guide on the most popular protein sources you will find on Dis-Chem shelves.

READ MORE | What’s So Smart About Futurelife®’s Smartprotein3d™ Formulation?

WHEY PROTEIN

Whey protein is a high-quality protein made from milk (±20% of the protein) and has a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), particularly leucine.

It is well-known for its quick absorption rate and adding lean body mass. It is often recommended immediately after exercise as part of a post-workout regimen and is commonly used in many protein supplements.

CASEIN PROTEIN

Casein is a protein source that is derived from dairy (±80% of the protein). It is known as a slower-digesting protein, which is why it is usually suggested before bed. It plays a major role during growth and development and is high in the amino acid glutamine.

SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE

Sourced from soybeans, the protein is ‘isolated’ from the rest of the soybean components, making it 90% protein.

Contrary to popular belief, it is equal in quality to animal protein, contains no cholesterol, and is almost fat free.

Soy is also high in the amino acids glutamine and arginine, offers antioxidant activity and has an intermediate digestion rate.

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COMBINING PROTEN SOURCES

Consuming whey, casein and soy protein sources can help maintain a positive protein balance over a course of time.

Studies have shown that it extends the process in which protein is produced to repair muscle damage caused by intense exercise (muscle protein synthesis) longer compared to having the proteins in isolation due to:

  • Different digestion rates
  • Prolonged delivery of amino acids
  • Repairs muscle consistently over a longer period
  • Balanced amino acid profile: arginine (soy) glutamine (casein and soy) and BCAAs (whey)
  • Ideal protein combination for muscle protein synthesis and recovery

HOW MUCH PROTEIN IS ENOUGH

The amount of protein you require per day depends on numerous factors such as activity level, age, muscle mass, and overall health and nutritional goals.

Protein intake of about 30% of your total calories has been shown to assist with weight management. Alternatively, aim for 1-1.2 g/kg of protein per day.

The more physically active you are, the higher your protein requirements. According to the International Society of Sports Nutrition, protein intake of 1.4g- 2g/kg/day is recommended for active individuals to assist with muscle synthesis and repair.

YOUR PROTEIN SHOPPING GUIDE

So, now that you know what protein sources you’re looking for and amounts you require, here’s a guide on our favourite products that are both affordable and tick the protein boxes.

Protein Combinations

FUTURELIFE® makes combining protein sources easy with SmartProtein3D™, a scientific blend of 3 protein sources: whey, casein and soy for all the benefits of these proteins in one product! SmartProtein3D™ is beneficially added to the following products:

Protein Intake Timings

FUTURELIFE® HIGH PROTEIN Smart food™ is an ideal post-exercise recovery option. Carry a sachet or pre-portioned amount, simply add water to this in a shaker, and enjoy instantly. You can also have it as a meal with milk or water. If you’re a smoothie fan, you can make a delicious smoothie with the FUTURELIFE® HIGH PROTEIN Smart food™ and a few simple ingredients like a banana, milk and peanut butter.

FUTURELIFE® High Protein Bar, High Protein LITE Bar and HIGH PROTEIN Shake can be used as a pre-exercise snack or high protein snack during the day to assist in meeting your daily protein requirements. Alternatively, they are also ideal options to keep in your training bag to enjoy as a post-workout snack followed by a protein rich meal within the next hour.

Now that you know which protein sources to choose as part of a healthy, balanced diet combined with exercise, spring into action and don’t let anything get in your way of achieving your goals!

All products are available in single portion sizes for portion control and on-the-go convenience. Visit www.futurelife.com for more information.

Written by Sonal Ratan