Are you debating on what is the best protein supplement for you? Whether it is egg protein, whey protein, casein protein or soy protein, you might like to learn more on which of these products are best for your needs:

Biological Value (BV)

This value is a calibration of the quantity of nitrogen absorbed by the body when protein is consumed in an empty stomach. It indicates how digestible and available the protein is for use by the body. For example, a whole egg has a 100% nitrogen absorption rating.

Net Protein Utilization (NPU)

This is the amount of amino acids converted to protein by the body compared to the amount of amino acids from protein that was consumed. A percentage value of 100 means that the body uses 100% of the protein provided. For instance, whey isolate has 100% NPU value versus tofu at 64%.

The Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER for short)

Protein efficiency ratio measures the gain in body weight divided by the weight of the protein consumed in infant laboratory rats. The FDA uses the PER to determine the recommended daily allowance of protein on food labels. Do note, however, that rats handle protein differently than humans, causing calculation errors.

The Amino Acid Score (AAS for short)

The amino acid score is a measure of the quantity of individual amino acids in a protein, relative to the need for the amino acid. This type of measure does not evaluate whether or not the protein is digestible. Values of 1 or more are proteins that carry amino acids that are required by humans. Example: Whole milk Methionine + cystine (84), threonine (94), lysine (97)

The Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS for short)

PDCAAS pattern is based on the protein requirements of preschool-age children (rather than lab rats) combined with the AAS score, thereby, correcting the shortcomings of the PER and AAS methods. A protein with a high score of 100% PDCAAS, means that the food provides about 100% of protein synthesis for the human body, such as whole egg (1.00).

The Essential and Non-Essential Amino Acids

Essential amino acids are needed by the human body but cannot be made by the body; hence, these amino acids have to be added through diet.

Glutamine - non-essential

Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that is found in massive amounts in the muscles of the body. Because it easily passes through the blood-brain barrier, it is also known as a brain fuel. Glutamine can be converted to glucose and used for energy rather than blood sugar. Glutamine also increases growth hormone levels thereby increasing muscle cell volume as well.

Arginine - a non-essential amino acid

A non-essential amino acid that thwarts both physical and mental fatigue, arginine stimulates the pituitary glands to secrete human growth hormone. It has the ability to produce nitric oxide, hence, increasing blood flow and delivering more nutrients to the muscles for muscle development. Arginne has been found to improve immune system responses to bacteria. Studies indicate arginine supplements show promising results in increasing lipid metabolism.

When absorbed into the human body through diet, the twenty-one standard amino acids are either oxidized to urea and carbon dioxide as a source of energy or used to synthesize proteins and other biomolecules. About ten of these are essential, and therefore, must be included in the diet.

In some situations, such as puberty or early development, pregnancy or lactation, injury or simply building muscle, a diet that contains adequate amounts of amino acids (especially the essential ones) is particularly important. If you are considering protein supplements for muscle building, choose one that scores high in several of the standards mentioned above. It is also important to consume lean meats, low-fat dairy products and plants rich in proteins for a complete source of amino acids.

Fitness Centers of Rochester, Rochester Group Fitness Programs and Weight Loss Centers of Rochester provide health and fitness consultation to its members.