Protein is an amino acid used in the body for energy. Amino acids provide nitrogen in the body, which is important for muscle growth and repair. The body needs protein as well as fats and carbohydrates to keep the immune system functioning properly, to build and maintain hormone levels, to keep PH levels balanced in the blood, and as an energy source.
There are times when a person does not get the required protein due to diet, illness or a regimen of strength training that requires a higher level of protein intake for maximum muscle growth.
There are several ways to get protein in a diet. Consuming dairy products, chicken, meat, soy and nuts will all provide protein. People trying to lose weight or gain muscle need additional protein and need to eat a lot of protein-laden foods in order to achieve maximum results.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) advises that the average person should ingest 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight. Someone engaged in intense exercise or looking to build muscle should consume twice the protein as recommended in the RDA. A diet should consist of 20 to 40 percent of calories coming from sources of protein.
There are many varieties of protein supplements on the market. Protein supplements will usually have between 20 and 30 grams of protein along with other vitamins and minerals. Powdered protein supplements are taken with milk or juice, and come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, peanut butter and fruit flavors. Protein supplements are also available in protein bars.
Bodybuilders often use protein supplements to ingest the maximum amount of protein in order to increase lean muscle mass. As a person builds muscle, the muscle tissue is in a constant state of being repaired and replaced. Consuming extra protein will maximize the muscle repair through positive nitrogen balance. Protein is also useful for weight loss, as it speeds up the metabolism for faster burning of stored fat. Protein will also make a person feel fuller after eating.