Category Archives: shakes Drinks

What’s the Best Protein Powder?

October 25, 2011

I have recently been getting a lot of emails from people asking what the best protein powder is. If you’re curious about what protein powder is the best choice to help you meet your fitness goals, hopefully this article helps.

Let’s take a look at the different types of protein powders. There’s a lot of variety on the market, so it’s easy too get confused.

Whey protein is the most common form of protein powder out there. It’s extremely inexpensive – you can some incredible deals. it is derived from milk – when milk is being processed into cheese, whey protein is collected and separated.

You can find two main types of whey protein powders – whey protein concentrates (the most common and least expensive) and whey protein isolates. Concentrated powders are about 75% protein in weight.

Whey protein isolates on the other hand are typically at least 90% pure protein. they also contain the lowest amount of fat and carbohydrates. These are of a higher quality and are better absorbed by your body. however, the pricetag is more expensive than concentrated protein powder.

Micellar casein protein is a slow absorbing protein. it has received a lot of positive press after studies have shown that it can help keep amino acid levels in the body elevated for up to 7 hours. this can help to prevent muscle breakdown and speed up recovery levels.

Finally, soy protein is intended for people that are lactose intolerant. it is derived from soya beans and therefore does not contain any milk products.

So what’s the best protein powder? Well, unless money isn’t an issue, you’re best to stick to whey protein concentrates. because there are so many supplement companies that make this type of powder, the prices have dropped dramatically in recent years. It’s a great way to provide your body with the muscle building protein it needs and won’t hurt your wallet.

Isolate whey protein is a better quality, but it’s typically at least twice as expensive. If you’re extremely serious about packing on the muscle and money isn’t an issue, go ahead and give it a shot.

Personally, I use both concentrate and isolate proteins. I will take the concentrate in the morning and at night, and use the isolate right after my workout. this reduces the amount of money I spend on my protein but ensures I get the highest quality protein right when my muscles need it the most.

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Isopure – Purest Among Meal Replacements

October 22, 2011

Isopure can be considered to consist of 100% protein providing the most effective protein supply to the body. for the best possible muscle protein recovery, isopure consists of no possible alternatives to provide an equivalent amount of energy and stamina. a bottle of liquid protein isopure hardly consists any fat and usually contains carbohydrate and protein ratios to balance and initiate the balance of protein synthesis in the body. this is probably the best solution for the ones who require mass. Nature’s best Isopure is thus, the first product available in the market to provide 50 grams of Pure Ion Exchange to the body.

The instant powder availability enables easy storage and transportation from one place to another. Isopure is simply rich in glutamine and amino acids thus making it the most popular among the athletes and the sports persons.

Variety of isopure is listed below:

a)Zero Carb: contains no sugar and are available in 3 lb, 7.5 lb and 8.8 lb packs. the flavors in which the zero carb isopure is available are vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.

b)Low Carb: contains no sugar and 3 grams of carbohydrates and is available in the usual 3 lb, 7.5 lb and the 8.8 lb pack. the general impurities which are present in the most of the whey proteins are absent in the low carb in order to provide the great taste. the pack is free from lactose and is highly enriched in glutamine. the flavors in which the low carb is mostly available are the alpine punch, apple melon, strawberry, mango peach and vanilla.

c)Glass Isopure: Two types are usually found – one is low carb and the other is zero carb which are readily available in 20 oz. liquid packs in icy orange and alpine punch flavors.

Isopure are the most effective and pure form of protein suppliers to the body. the benefits of intake of isopure are plenty. Isopure consists of amino acids which results in the concentration enhancements and intensifies the mental alertness. it has astonishing ability to elevate moods and is capable to suppress the hormones responsible for the appetite. Regulation of the hormones dealing with the appetite eventually results in the weight balance of the body. Isopure is a perfect replacement for the meals as it is capable of providing the optimum nutrition required by the body. Athletes or people involved in the world of sports require more protein supply as compared to the ordinary human beings; for them isopure can be the ideal solution.

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Make Delicious Shakes and Smoothies Using Protein Supplements

September 8, 2011

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to add more protein to your diet, you should consider trying protein supplements. they are made from a number of different types of protein for people with different needs, and they can be used in many recipes or in great tasting shakes and smoothies.

The average adult needs at least between 55 and 65 grams of protein per day, and even more if they are on special, high-protein diets. there are all kinds of foods that have lots of protein, but many people don’t want to have to eat a lot, especially if they are dieting or they just simply don’t have enough time to sit down to a healthy meal. Protein shakes and smoothies make terrific meal replacements, and they are quite simple to make.

Why Do we Need Protein?

Protein is important for the building and maintenance of healthy muscles and promoting energy and is an essential part of our daily dietary intake. Many people do not get enough protein in their diets, and this is where supplements can come into play. they give you all the benefits of protein-rich foods, without all of the fat and calories.

People who exercise a lot, especially weightlifters and athletes, need protein in order to promote muscle recovery following workouts. Many people on special liquid or high-protein diets use protein supplements, and people who are heavy eaters of junk food can benefit from having additional protein in their diets.

Types of Protein Shakes

There are a number of different protein supplements available, each of which has ingredients that may or may not be good for some people. for instance, people who are lactose intolerant should opt for soy protein instead of whey, which is a milk derivative.

Whey Protein – Whey, as mentioned above, is a derivative of milk, a biproduct of the cheese-making process. It is a protein that is quickly and easily digested, making it a great option for body builders and other athletes who are looking for muscle recovery following workouts or to build muscles.

Soy Protein – Soy protein is a wonderful option for vegetarians and people who are intolerant to milk and milk products, such as cheese and yogurt. Soy protein comes directly from soybeans, so it is vegetable-based. It isn’t the greatest tasting protein, but you can get plenty of soy supplement products that are flavored and taste really great.

Egg Protein – This is highly recognized as a protein for body builders. In fact, before there were nutritional supplements, it was not uncommon to see weight lifters drinking raw eggs for a protein boost. now, there are a number of egg protein powders available that taste great in shakes.

Rice Protein – This protein comes from brown rice and is considered to be a complete protein. Rice protein contains all of the essential amino acids, as well as nonessential amino acids, and since it is hypoallergenic, it is great for everyone.

What is the Best Protein Shake for you?

When choosing the best protein supplement for you, there are a number of factors to consider. for example, if you are lactose intolerant, you need to make sure that you don’t get a supplement that is made from whey or casein. if you have allergies, you may want to stick with soy or rice protein supplements. Decide what you need the protein supplement for (workouts or weight loss, for example), and look for products that are made for your purposes. Make sure that you read labels of each product that you are interested in. each product is labeled specifically for its use, and you will find all of the ingredients on the labels as well.

Protein Shakes for Women

Since protein supplements are a terrific dietary aid when it comes to losing weight, many women enjoy protein smoothies, shakes and bars each day. In order to burn fat, the body must make the switch from burning carbohydrates, and this can be done by adding more protein to the diet. also, additional protein will help in muscle recovery following exercise routines.

Women’s bodies have the ability to store many nutrients, but protein is not one of them. Therefore, additional proteins are necessary, and protein supplements are a great way to get the protein needed. also, drinking protein shakes, especially those made with fast-digesting whey, is a wonderful thing for women following workouts.

A Delicious Breakfast Replacement Shake for Women

- 1 small container of plain yogurt

- 1 C fresh fruit and berries (try a mix of bananas and strawberries for a really tasty shake)

- 2 scoops of protein powder

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Blend all ingredients together in blender, and pour into a glass. This is a great on-the-go meal replacement, and you can put it in a travel mug. (If you are going to do this, remember not to make it too thick.add more milk and less yogurt or ice).

Weight Loss Protein Shakes and Smoothies

Many people who are on liquid or reduced-calorie diets can benefit from weight loss protein supplement shakes. you don’t have to go out and buy any special ingredients. if you already are eating healthy, you should have just about everything you need on hand to make delicious weight loss shakes and smoothies. also, if you are a person who is busy and always on the go, these shakes and smoothies are the ideal take-along meal.

Tasty, Low-Cal Weight Loss Protein Shake

- 2 scoops of soy protein powder

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

Blend all ingredients in a blender, and enjoy

Awesome Weight Loss Protein Smoothie

- 1 C unsweetened apple juice

- 1/2 C frozen strawberries

- 2 scoops of soy protein powder

- Blend all ingredients in blender. for a less slushy drink, add less ice.

Kids Can Benefit from Protein Supplements Too

Ideally, kids are healthy, active and constantly on the go, meaning that they are always in need of lots of vitamins and nutrients to help them grow. one of the dietary essentials for healthy muscles is protein, and oftentimes, kids just aren’t getting enough of it. there are a number of reasons for this, from not having time for breakfast before catching the school bus to eating an unhealthy lunch to being extremely active. here is a great-tasting recipe for a protein supplement-enriched smoothie, and a delicious shake that your kids will love:

Fruit Protein Smoothie

- 1/2 C mixed berries (raspberries and strawberries taste great together, and frozen berries add to the slushiness)

- 1 scoop of berry or fruit-flavored protein powder

- Blend ingredients in a blender, pour into a fun glass, add a straw and garnish with a slice of orange and a few berries. Add more ice for a really fun slushie.

- 1/2 C skim milk (for a special occasional treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream)

- 1 scoop of vanilla-flavored protein powder

- Blend ingredients in a blender, pour into a mug and add a straw. Add some banana slices and a couple of berries to the top for garnish.

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Basic Bodybuilding Diet

September 4, 2011

If you want to build muscle whilst losing stomach fat, then you should check out the diet below..

This is a basic bodybuilding diet to use as a template. this is designed for a 185-lb. bodybuilder with maybe 12%-15% body fat. as written this diet is only 3000 calories a day. Most BB’s will probably want to ramp this up to 4000+ calories a day, to really make mass gains. the extra calories should come mainly from clean carbs (oatmeal, rice, yams, potatoes, etc.) A hard gainer with very low body fat should also add an extra 100 grams a day of healthy fats like olive oil, flax seed oil, and natural style peanut butter. however you adjust this, you should strive to have 25% of your daily carbs first thing in the morning, and 25% immediately after working out.

All weights/measures are the amount before cooking:

No food prior to morning cardio. Coffee with some skim milk and/or diet sweetener is okay, but definitely no sugar.

Meal #1 (immediately after cardio, on days you do any.) (9:00 to 10:00 a.m., for example)

1C. oatmeal (dry measure, pre-cooking) 3 whole eggs 3 egg whites 4 oz. (pre-cooked weight) Skinless chicken breast 1 slice rye or whole wheat toast 1 tbsp. peanut butter (oily natural kind like Laura Scudder’s)

(Feel free to add veggies like broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, etc., to eggs)

Meal #2 (1:00 to 2:00 p.m., maybe.)

8 oz. Skinless chicken breast OR: 1 can tuna (in water) OR: 8 oz. Lean ground beef 1 large baked yam (10-12 oz.) OR: 1/2 C. rice (dry measure, pre-cooking) Green veggies or salad if wanted, but no dressing except non-caloric, non-carb stuff like vinegar, soy sauce, lemon juice, mustard. 1 slice rye or whole wheat toast 1 tbsp. peanut butter

Meal #3 (4:30 – 5:30 p.m.; i.e., one hour before training) 1 Meal Replacement Drink like ISOPURE, Myoplex, Met-Rx, Twinlab MRP, etc.

Weight training: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (for example)

Meal #4 (immediately following training) (8:00 – 9:00 p.m., let’s say)

1 can tuna (in water) OR: 6 oz. Skinless chicken breast OR: 8 oz. Lean ground beef or lean steak 1/2 C. rice OR: 1 large baked yam Green veggies or salad

Meal #5 (optional) 1 Meal Replacement Drink

TOTAL CALORIES: 3000 (approx.) PROTEIN: 300 grams (approx.) CARBS: 330 grams (approx.) FAT: 50 – 75 grams (approx.)

Additional Diet Rules

IMPORTANT: Drink 1-2 gallons of water a day. Try not to go any longer than 2.5 – 3 hours between eating. 3 is the absolute limit, 2 – 2.5 is better. Don’t skip any meals. If you’re too busy or too stuffed to eat, at least have a Meal Replacement Drink. (Except for breakfast, which should be the recommended food.)

Lean ground beef means ground sirloin or whatever, 7% fat content. Best to cook it separately and drain off the juice.

Add vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, celery, onions, cauliflower, carrots or whatever to any meal. as much as you want. (Use tomatoes sparingly, because they’re loaded with fructose, which is a simple sugar.) A couple tablespoons of olive oil per day is also allowable, and actually helps build mass and lose fat. but use the extra virgin cold-pressed kind only.

Definitely allow yourself a cheat day once a week. I.e., one day where you maybe don’t worry about getting all those meals in, and where you can pig out on anything you want for one meal.

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What Are the Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment If Anti-TNF Drugs Don’t Work?

August 13, 2011

The combination of methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors have been the gold standard for inducing remission in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. but this combination doesn’t always work? this article provides information on alternatives.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory form of arthritis and affects more than 2 million Americans.

It is a chronic, progressive, autoimmune disease that causes both joint damage as well as harm to internal organs.

While biologic drugs, first introduced about 17 years a go have been a boon for RA sufferers, not every one responds. Some people have no amelioration of their symptoms (primary non response) and others lose their response over time (secondary non response.) And others develop side effects or frequent infections that limit the usefulness of biologic therapy.

Fortunately, there are alternatives.

The first is tocilizumab (Actmera). this is a medicine that blocks the effects of interleukin 6, a protein that plays a pivotal role in the progression of RA. this drug is a good option for those patients who fail TBF therapy. unlike the many TNF inhibitors, Actemra can only be given intravenously as of this writing. but a subcutaneous form is in the works.

Another option is abatacept (Orencia.) this blocks the activation of T cells which are cells that also play an important role in chronic inflammation. Orencia is also given intravenously. but like Actemra, a subcutaneous form is available.

Another second line biologic is rituximab (Rituxan). this is a drug that depletes B cells, another pivotal player in the RA process.

As one might imagine, tinkering with the immune system has its downsides and the number of potential side effects associated with biologics is prodigious. However, in experienced hands, in other words, in the hands of an arthritis expert, the likelihood of a significant problem can usually either be avoided or at least recognized. nonetheless, these drugs do carry potential risks that should be explained to the patient and risk versus benefit needs to be discussed.

Some people have advocated combining biologics with different modes of action to see if better control can be achieved. unfortunately, it appears this strategy doesn’t work. One study used a combination of a TNF inhibitor along with Orencia. no improvement in symptoms and signs of disease were seen. what was noticed was an increased incidence of side effects.

Newer drugs that target different proteins and cells are constantly being evaluated. Inhibitors of a chemical messenger called tyrosine kinase have been evaluated. One such drug, a JAK kinase inhibitor, appears promising. The drug, tofacitinib, has looked promising in clinical trials. The advantage of this group of medicines is that they are oral.

Other companies are also exploring this pathway and developing competing products.

The ultimate goal, of course, is remission

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Whey Protein Powder – What Are the Benefits?

July 5, 2011

We all have read the nutrition labels and know how important macronutrients are to our life. after all, without carbohydrates, protein, and fats we wouldn’t be able to have energy. however, there is one macronutrient that serves a greater purpose than to be used as fuel, and that is protein.

Proteins are different because they are composed of chains of nitrogen. this is further divided into little units called amino acids – and these are the basic building blocks of muscle. Amino acids also serve as an essential source of dietary nitrogen, which is an essential element for your body.

These amino acids are the building blocks of lean muscle. this is where whey protein enters the picture. Whey supplies all of the essential amino acids and digests very quickly – usually within 30 minutes. Whey protein is also very inexpensive and, especially chocolate whey, can taste great.

One of the best times to take whey protein is right after you workout. the reason for this is that your muscles are depleted of their glycogen reserves and your muscle tissues are broken down. after you workout, you are highly sensitive to insulin – which shuttles muscles to your muscles rather than fat.

When insulin is released, triggered by a simple carbohydrate drink or meal, you should then drink whey protein. Whey protein will get to your muscles very quickly and immediately begin to repair the damage. this means that you can recover faster, and get results more quickly.

Whey protein is also very safe for you. there is no evidence that says that whey protein has any harmful side effects. With moderation, it is very safe. In fact, it can boost your immune system and increase muscularity. Whey protein is also natural and is found in everyday food such as milk.

When is it most important to consume protein and how much should you consume? well that is entirely up to you, but the best times to make use of whey protein is post workout and right after you wake up. Your body is most sensitive and will greatly benefit from its speedy absorption.

For the rest of the day, just stick to your healthy foods. make sure and eat plenty of nuts, dairy, lean meats, vegetables and fruit. all of these serve a purpose that whey protein will not do, and without proper diet you will never see results. Remember that diet and training is greater than supplements.

Whey protein is any bodybuilder’s, or person who wants to make a positive change in their appearance, best friend. its benefits are astounding and you should always value the health of your body. Build confidence through an impressive physique and a better life through feeling great about you.

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What is the shelf life for Whey Protein powder?

June 29, 2011

I have a large container of GNC's 100% Whey Protein powder, the Strawberry Banana stuff. the expiration date is looming, and I was wondering how long I may continue using it before the effectiveness wears off. I'm really beginning to work out more, whether it's in the gym or swimming laps, so I want to take advantage of what I have for as long as I can. if it's a best bet to buy a fresh jar, I'd be willing to do so.

Idk I have the same kind except vanilla and its been well over a yr since i have had it but i think its still good

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The Best Protein Supplements

June 27, 2011

The Best Protein supplements are a great way to add protein to your diet easily and effectively.Protein comes in many forms but the most common and the most effective is powder as is it very easy to introduce to your diet. the only problems are that there are so many available on line and on the high street and with many containing high levels of sugar which is no good as sugar raises the insulin response so increasing fat stores within the body. So here is a few simple check points to consider when deciding on which brand to buy.

1. How much protein is their per serving

2. Is the protein supplement full of sugar check the ingredients anything below 2.0 grams per 100 grams is a good low level amount

3. What other nutrients does the protein supplement contain

But to be absolutely sure on what you are consuming I would go for pure whey protein as this is the purest form of protein. you can buy tubs with only whey protein and then you can have the convenience of adding other supplements to the mixture if you wish such as pure Creatine in my opinion it is the best way to customize you diet.

The best protein supplement bars are a great way to supplement your body building diet as you can take them any were with you. which allows you to fulfill diet requirements each day. they contain large amounts of protein and most need water to be digested properly but there are so many available which one are the best? we don’t want to be consuming excess sugar and fat as some manufacturers produce some with high levels of basic fillers and sugars. below is a simple check list to follow when choosing your protein supplement bar.

1. the price for the best protein supplement bars should never be low as developing these bars aren’t cheap and making them tasty is a lot of hard work so go for the more expensive ranges.

2. another method is to simply look at the ingredients and look for the quantity of protein most protein supplement bars state the amount on the front packaging. Check for fats and sugar contents and go for the lowest amount as sugar raises insulin levels which converts sugar to fat within the body.

3. As for flavors a general rule is the most basic of flavors such as chocolate are the best although I have seen a few different flavors such as peanut butter and apple pie and these are very tasty. ‘although the flavors say chocolate, they don’t contain any’.

4. For the best protein supplement bars you can buy them in bulk as you will save a lot of money. I have also found some big companies, that release new protein bars with huge discounts. keep a look out and just buy the whole box.

There are also protein supplement bars that claim to replace whole meals and they need to be drunk with a lot of water. I find they don’t satisfy and only messes up the stomach, because it feels like you have missed a meal. great if your busy, but if you eat regularly then you may get into a bit of trouble.

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Protein Supplement Question?

June 20, 2011

I know that there are:

Whey Protein
Casein Protein
Egg Protein
Soy Protein

My question is what others are there?I;m not talking about bars,what I'm reffering to is protein suplements in powder form.

Thanks in Advance

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How to Use Whey Protein Supplements

June 14, 2011

Whey protein supplements are safe and used casually by people for an additional method of antioxidant intake to bodybuilders with a conscious effort of weight gain. Whey is best know for its ability to assist in building muscle mass. Increased muscle mass also produces weight gain as muscle out weighs fat. Body builders work extremely hard at turning that additional weight gain into a ripped body.

The weight gained from whey protein supplements should be managed through a ridged workout schedule combined with a formatted protein diet. by following a regulated workout routine, the increased muscle mass can produce awesome results. you must stick with the exercise and workout routine to prevent the possible heavy weight gain from ending up in places you rather it not be. Stay driven and the whey protein drinks and bars will pay off.

Because whey protein supplements can produce negative effects when not properly managed through a good diet and exercise program, it is advised to seek advice on your whey protein diet. Bodybuilding trainers and diet professionals can provide answers to whether or not a protein diet is right for you. Remember, most name brand manufacturers have websites. they normally reply to any email question concerning their products.

NOTE: It is advised to consult a health care practitioner before starting any diet.

To see the possible results of whey protein supplements, you should visit a local gym. Talk to the manager and find a few regulars that maintain a thorough workout program. without getting to personal, you can ask about their consumption of whey protein supplements. you will surely find that many combine whey protein with a ridged workout schedule to cultivate weight gain and turn it into ripped muscle mass. remaining devoted to the program is generally the answer to how they get positive results.

Devotedness to the routine as well as to the supplements remains at the top of the success factor list. Anaerobic workouts are used for sculpting the abs, pectorals, triceps and deltoids. Remember, you will not get the body of the hulk by consuming whey protein and talking about circuit training. you must stay devoted to the workout program as well as the protein diet.

It should not be an issue finding the right workout program and protein diet for you. Determine what you goal is and your available time. Set a schedule and stick to it. Devotion is the name of the game. Continue working out no matter what supplement you decide on.

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