Information on Soy and Whey ProteinWhen deciding whether to include soy or whey protein as a major part of your diet, it is important to get the information about how soy or whey proteins benefit the body and also to learn about the health concerns with each. For most, the benefits far outweigh any concerns and adding them as a part of a daily routine will enhance physical well being.
Natural Sources of Soy and Whey ProteinSoy protein is obtained from the many products containing soy bean. TVP, Tofu, soy flakes and soy flour are commonly available sources of soy bean. Whey is the by product of making cheese. It was once regarded as a useless byproduct of cheese making but today it has become an important source of proteins.
Soy and Whey Protein Nutritional and Medical BenefitsThe nutritional benefits of soy protein are it is easy to digest, contains nearly 98% protein and has less fat content than eggs or meat. Medically, soy has been found to reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases, osteoporosis, cancers and menopausal symptoms. It is popular with athletes for its capabilities of producing lean muscle mass. By reducing cholesterol soy can help in reducing heart ailments and certain forms of cancer. The intake of soy when dieting will give the body the necessary energy drive and will help the dieter stick to their diet by suppressing the craving for food. Men are can be wary of including soy protein in their diets because of its estrogen producing capability which is essentially thought of as a female hormone. Research has now shown that the estrogenic effects of soy are specific to tissues that require the hormone. Eating soy can help break down fat and carbohydrates thus avoiding large deposits of fats and carbohydrates in the body. Whey does not cause any hormonal changes and is preferred by men to soy protein. Body builders prefer whey proteins because of their nitrogen retention capabilities. Intake of whey proteins helps athletes because it does not have fat content, aids immunity and increases bone mass and health.
Soy and Whey Protein Allergies are A Point of ConcernSoy can give allergic reactions to some patients. In some patients intake of soy increases the female sex hormone estrogen and decreases the male hormone testosterone at an alarming rate. Soy causes thyroid problems for some patients. Soy is not recommended for infants because it sometimes decreases their immune system. The American Journal of Epidemiology has stated that soy containing products can increase the symptoms of asthma sufferers. The Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the George Town University Medical College has found that soy has phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors which inhibit zinc and iron absorption and can cause anemia in infants and children. Whey is not prescribed for lactose intolerant patients. Lactose intolerant people suffer nausea, diarrhea and skin eruptions if they eat whey proteins.
Soy and Whey Protein has Proliferated the Market.Soy products are now stocked on the shelves of both specialty nutrition stores and larger grocery stores. Soy Cheeses, non dairy creamer, frozen desserts, salad dressings and breakfast cereals contain soy. Soy is also found in powder form which is a muscle enhancer generally used by body builders to improve their muscle mass. Soy is found in the health supplements, Amino and Soy Pro. Soy Pro comes in different flavors. They are available in stores or through the internet. The FDA, however has not verified the health benefits of these supplements and they carry the disclaimer that they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Whey Protein is also widely available. Ice creams, infant foods, bread and canned soups contain whey proteins. Whey protein is also available as supplements. The whey protein manufacturer, Designer Whey comes as protein packs and drink mixes. Bio Pro is a natural unflavored whey protein supplement. Kellogs have whey protein fortified drinks and health bars. These supplements have not been sanctioned by the FDA and carry the disclaimer that they cannot diagnose cure or treat any disease.
Soy is a protein rich food. If you are not allergic to soy, its benefits outweigh its adverse effects. If you have made a nutritional choice of being a vegan, soy is the best source of protein for your body. Whey is a muscle builder's dream protein supplement. If you are not lactose intolerant and are looking for a natural supplement to help tone your muscles, whey protein is your best bet. |