Protein Hacks for More Muscle: How to Supercharge Your Whey Protein
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| Protein Hacks for More Muscle: How to Supercharge Your Whey Protein |
Looking to give your whey protein powder some more juice. Relative to other protein sources, whey has a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) – leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAAs, particularly leucine, are important factors in tissue growth and repair. The high BCAA content in whey protein makes it one of the most potent protein drinks you can consume for health benefits. Whey protein is “superfood” that not only contains all essential 18 amino acids, but also contains naturally occurring immune boosters such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, and a cysteine. Additionally, whey protein is one of the greatest foods for maximizing the anti-aging, anti-oxidant effects of glutathione. Studies on middle-aged animals demonstrate that supplementing with the branched chain amino acids and other components in whey increase median life span by up to the equivalent of 9.6 years in human terms! Whey is a popular dietary protein supplement purported to provide antimicrobial activity, immune modulation, improved muscle strength and body composition, and to prevent cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
How to Supercharge Your Whey Protein with Cocoa
Try adding some cocoa to your whey protein shakes to enhance its anti-oxidant effects. Polyphenolic compounds found in cocoa have been found to have many health effects such increasing fullness, insulin sensitivity, and enhancing fat metabolism. In one study in test tube studies, cocoa polyphenol extract inhibited creation of new fat cells by 30%. So not only does cocoa have anti-oxidant effects but it may also reduce bodyfat as well. Researchers examined the impact of whey protein and cocoa powder on glucose metabolism and satiety. At the end of the study, researchers found that that cocoa polyphenolics alone, and in combination with whey proteins, prevent cellular fat accumulation and boost lipid metabolism. The researchers also found that whey protein isolate containing beverages significantly decreased spikes in blood glucose, and high polyphenolic cocoa significantly moderated blood glucose levels when compared to low polyphenolic cocoa. This study indicates that cocoa polyphenols may improve health by moderating glucose metabolism and increasing rates of lipid metabolism.So if your looking to enhance the actions of your whey protein, you should add some cocoa powder.
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