A new study presented at the Experimental Biology 2012 conference revealed that combining proteins after workouts provides more benefits. Protein is essential for muscle growth and has become a popular addition to many exercise regimens. As a coach, I am often asked about the best nutrient supplements. Although I prefer natural sources of protein from food, there are benefits to using protein blends for some athletes.

The Right Combination of Proteins

Previous studies on protein consumption after exercise have provided conflicting information. The latest research presented at the Experimental Biology 2012 conference indicates that a combination of casein, soy and whey protein may actually be the best solution for athletes. Instead of relying on one source, adding several types of proteins helps the body build muscles faster and longer.

Researchers claim that the best combination is 50 percent casein, 25 percent soy and 25 percent whey protein. The main advantage of using all three products is to release a constant amount of amino acids for the longest period of time. Since each type of protein is digested at a different rate, using three of them provides the most benefits.

Study Limitations

Unfortunately, the sample group used by the researchers is limited in this case. They admit that the study only included 19 "young adults," so the results may not be applicable to everyone. Furthermore, age is another factor that needs to be studied in more detail because the current research only focused on young adults. The study is basing its main benefits on the continuous flow of amino acid, but metabolic rates vary greatly for individuals, and they may not see the same results.

The study is credited to Dr. Blake Rasmussen at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Since the researchers used Solae SUPRO isolated soy protein, the company has been proudly displaying the results of the study on its website. Unfortunately, the summary that has been released has a limited amount of data. I will be looking forward to the full results that Dr. Blake Rasmussen plans to reveal at the annual meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine.

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New Research Encourages Combining Proteins After Workouts