Posted on 25th Oct 2011 @ 1:27 PM

Protein

Energy Level: 4 calories (Kcal) per gram

Proteins, or Amino Acids, are the building blocks of life. Protein is required by the body for the growth, maintenance and repair of all cells. It is a major component of all muscles, tissues and organs and is vital for practically every process that occurs within the body such as metabolism, digestion and the transportation of nutrients and oxygen in the blood.  Protein is also necessary for the production of antibodies, which fight against infection and illness, and is the main nutrient that keeps our hair shiny and healthy, our nails strong, our skin fresh and glowing and our bones strong and healthy. In fact, were it not for proteins your body would have no way to grow or repair. Heroes with regenerative capabilities (which is something we all have to a degree) show increased levels of protein synthesis, allowing for speedy recovery. Your recovery rate is largely dependant upon your genealogy, though consuming the correct proteins can go along way to helping. Bottom line, the faster you recover the quicker you can progress. For more information on Protein vist us a www.buy-sports-supplements.com.

When we train, or stimulate overload, we create a need for our bodies to use Proteins to repair damaged Cells. Because of this, anybody with insufficient Protein will struggle to gain the muscle mass they are aiming to achieve. It makes sense that, since muscles are made of protein, eating more dietary protein will help you build more muscle. However, science tells us that isn't always the case.

At a molecular level proteins break down into 'Amino Acids'; t is these compounds which form the muscles on your body. There are 20 different Amino Acids, 13 of which are 'non-essential' (meaning your body can synthesise them from alternate sources) and 7 'essential' (these cannot be created and must be consumed in your diet) amino acids. It is essential that you aim to consume as many 'whole proteins' as possible to ensure maintained levels of all needed Amino Acids. A varied diet will help this process. You may also consider the use of Sports Supplements (advised below).

Recent studies show that the average strength athlete would need to consume between 1-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight to maintain a healthy level. Whilst many strength trainers may advise you consume even more than this to help increase muscle gain, research indicates that excess proteins consumed may be converted to Body-Fat. In essence, Protein is needed to build muscle, though the quantities needed is certainly debatable, and tends to vary with body-type.