Protein Powder & Amino Acids

For optimal health, you need a daily infusion of protein, a component of all your cells that functions to build and repair tissue, manufacture hormones and enzymes, support your immune system and maintain your blood supply. Foods such as milk products, fish, meat, tofu and legumes provide dietary protein. You may also fulfill all or part of your daily protein requirements with a protein powder product rich in amino acids. Seek the advice of a dietitian before adding any nutritional supplement to your diet.

Background

A protein molecule consists of a chain of linked amino acids that are folded into a globular structure. Your body breaks down consumed protein into individual amino acids, which serve as the pool of building blocks that your body uses to create new, needed proteins. Your body can synthesize some amino acids, but others must come from your diet. Protein powder, commonly made from whey, casein or soy proteins, is rich in the amino acids that your body requires daily.

Uses

The amino acids in protein powder may help you to pack on muscle mass. As a strength or power athlete, you may need to consume up to 2 g of protein daily for every kilogram of your body weight, states Bill Campbell in the September 2007 issue of "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition." When you are on a calorie-restricted diet, you might consume protein powder to provide the daily requirement of amino acids without the fat calories that may be present in food sources of protein.

Advantages

Protein powder from high-quality protein sources, such as milk or soy, supplies your diet with all essential amino acids. Protein powders are convenient and easy to use; simply mix with a beverage to create an amino acid-rich shake. Add protein powder to cereals or baked goods to boost their protein content. Protein powders transport easily for consumption at the gym, at the office or when you are traveling.

Disadvantages

Although protein powders supply abundant amino acids, they may lack essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, that are found in food sources of protein. Relying on protein powders to supply your amino acid needs may result in suboptimal nutrition in the long term. Protein powders can be expensive. Some people do not enjoy the taste of protein powders or become bored with the available flavor varieties.