MuscleTech® is a global brand in sports nutrition, catering to the fitness and bodybuilding Industry. For those who strive to be the best they can be, MuscleTech® offers an innovative line of performance supplements to meet the needs of everyone— from fitness enthusiasts to elite athletes who are training to improve their strength, endurance, and power—and maintain their competitive edge. For 25 years, our groundbreaking Nitro-Tech® formula has taken on all challengers - and is still recognized as one of the most powerful proteins ever developed. Nitro-Tech® is our best-in-class, scientifically engineered whey protein formula, enhanced with the most studied form of creatine for more lean muscle, more strength, and better performance. This is the original for a reason - and proof that we relentlessly push the limits of science and research every day. Looking to take it to the next level? No matter what you do, Nitro-Tech® will help you get there.
Protein is one of three macronutrients used by the body for energy. These macronutrients include protein, carbs, and fats. Proteins form an integral and vital part of functioning of cells, tissues and organs in our bodies.
Protein is a series of amino acids linked together like a chain. The links that hold these amino acids together are known as peptide links. Amino acids are the primary source for nitrogen in the body. Having a positive nitrogen balance is essential for proper muscle growth and repair. Comprising of long chains of amino acids, proteins are large and complex molecules having a wide range of critical and essential functions in living organisms.
Some of key roles played by proteins in our bodies include providing structural support to cells and tissues, regulating chemical reactions such as digestion, metabolism, reproduction, etc., acting as transport molecules in the body and serving as antibodies, supporting our immune system to fight off infections. Proteins can therefore be termed as highly versatile molecules, serving diverse and critical functions in living organisms.
Protein Powders are made from protein rich foods and act as dietary supplements for either increasing protein intake for muscle growth & exercise recovery or meeting protein requirements incase not enough protein is being consumed through food.
Protein supplements generally contain more than 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving and sometimes are also fortified with vitamins and minerals. Protein supplements come in various flavours, from fruit flavored protein powders to cookie and cream flavored Protein Powders. Protein supplements generally can be mixed with water, milk, added to smoothies, shakes, etc., for consumption. Different types of Protein Powders include whey protein, casein Protein, soy protein, pea protein, rice protein, etc.
Whey proteins account for 20% of the protein in milk. Whey protein is a by-product in the production of cheese. Whey protein is one of the most popular protein supplementation protein source. It has a very high biological value rating, and is rich in the muscle-building amino acids BCAA (leucine, isoleucine, and valine). Whey protein is a fast-digesting protein source, and isn’t filling.
Casein proteins account for 80% of the protein in milk. Casein protein is a slow digesting protein that is isolated from milk, providing a steady and sustained release of amino acids into your system over 4-5 hours. It is 92% protein, and has a very “thick” taste. Because of this, it is a very popular protein in weight gainers. Best taken at night, your body gets what it needs to continue the muscle repair necessary for building muscle mass. You can also take it in the morning to keep you feeling full for hours.
Pea protein is one of the best plant-based types of protein powder, with an average pea protein supplement containing 60-75% protein. Pea protein is a 100% gluten-free protein. As with wheat protein, pea protein is lactose-free and does not contain any cholesterol. It is very easy to digest and is rich in amino acids. This vegan protein powder was once considered lower-quality than animal-based protein powders like whey because it doesn’t have the same levels of EAAs.
Soy protein is high quality, but not as efficient as milk or casein protein, It is a fast-digesting protein source that has an average amino acid profile. Because of this, it is not the most desirable protein source for those looking to build muscle. A typical soy protein isolate supplement contains close to 90% protein.
Some other types of protein powder you may find on the shelves include brown rice protein, and hemp protein powder. There is far less research around these, but it’s evolving.
These proteins also commonly appear in protein blends, which mix various types of protein powders to try to achieve an amino acid profile close to that of a complete protein.
Egg albumin is the egg white. It is popular in bodybuilding circles because of a higher essential-to-non-essential amino acid ratio, and because egg whites contain less cholesterol than egg yolks. Eggs are often considered the king of natural food proteins because of their high essential amino acid levels. Egg protein is the best alternative for those that are lactose intolerant.
With such a wide variety of protein powders available in the market, choosing the right protein for yourself can often be a challenge. It is therefore important to understand your health needs & preferences and accordingly identify the right protein powder that meets your requirements. For example, a vegetarian or a vegan may prefer only a plant-based protein powder whereas as a non-vegetarian may be open to a wide variety of other protein powders as well. Further, specific characteristics of each protein powder may also form an important criterion for choosing the right protein, for example, whey protein powders have a fast absorption rate and hence can be apt for consumption post workout while casein protein powders, which are slow to digest, are best used before going to bed. Understanding your body requirements, whether you are an athlete, weight trainer, bodybuilder or simply looking to increase your muscle mass as well as your dietary preferences can be a good criteria for choosing the right protein for yourself.
There are a variety of ways to consume protein powders by either mixing them in liquids, meals or even bakery goods if you would like. Protein powders can be mixed with water, milk, coconut water, smoothies, shakes, fruit juices, etc. Other ways to use protein powders can be by mixing them with your meals such as oatmeal, yogurt, soups or even bakery items like muffins, cookies or brownies. Depending on your taste preferences, the right flavour of protein powders can be used to complement your diets.
Yes, Protein powders are safe to consume provided they are complemented with a balanced diet including fruits and vegetables, diary products, whole foods, fish, meat, etc. It is also important to ensure that you choose reputable brands and purchase good quality protein powders & make sure that the ingredient list does not contain anything that you may be allergic to. Incase you have any pre-existing health conditions, it is essential that you consult a doctor before starting protein supplements.
The sticker used to verify your product is found on these MuscleTech™ staples. Look for this sticker to confirm you’re buying the real deal!
