Many athletes today are adding a variety of supplements to their diet in order to improve their athletic performance. One such supplement is a protein supplement. There are several different proteins to choose from, but the most popular ones are whey, rice, and soy. Taking a protein supplement can help with the growth and repair of muscle tissue, making it very valuable for athletes. Whey, rice, and soy protein supplements differ slightly in what they offer and what other benefits they have.

Whey Protein

Whey protein supplements are the most commonly used. Whey is derived from casein, which is a protein found in cow's milk. Many bodybuilders use whey protein supplements because of their need to develop more muscle mass. Whey is absorbed into the body quickly, which makes it a good choice for athletes looking to gain muscle mass. Casein is also available as a protein supplement, but it is absorbed slower in the system than whey is, making it a good before bed supplement. The slow release keeps the protein levels elevated longer - about 7 hours - than whey protein (3-4 hours), so the body keeps working as it's asleep. Whey protein can also help boost immune system, making it even more appealing to athletes.

Soy Protein

Soy protein is derived from soybeans, which are rich in protein. Soy protein is a good substitute for whey for lactose intolerant people. It is also a good substitute for vegetarians who may not be getting much protein in their diet. Soy protein does have an added benefit of lowering cholesterol and preventing heart-related diseases. It also has a higher effect on antioxidant status in the body, which whey and rice protein do not have.

Rice Protein

Rice protein is derived from rice and is another good alternative for lactose intolerant people. Rice protein is easier to digest for some people than soy, so some experimenting may be required to figure out which one works best for you. Rice is also safe for people with food allergies, where soy and whey may not be, depending on sensitivity to these derivatives.

Concentrate vs. Isolate

There are two main forms that protein comes in: the concentrate form and the isolate form. The concentrate form is about 80% pure protein, while the isolate form is about 90% pure protein. The concentrate form of whey contains more fat and lactose than the isolate form. Depending on your protein needs, there are reasons for choosing the concentrate over the isolate and visa versa.

Protein supplements are a smart and healthy way to build muscle mass, or even to just contribute to a diet. Whey, rice, and soy protein supplements all come with added health benefits, which make them very beneficial to your body. Price, taste, and several other factors can affect your preference, so many people have to try out several before they find one they like. The goal of the additional protein should also be taken into consideration. If you are a vegetarian who is looking for a diet supplement, there is a specific protein for you. If you are an athlete looking to build up some muscle mass, there are particular protein supplements for doing just that. Either way, taking a protein supplement is a great way to keep your body operating well and staying healthy!