BY STEVE BORN
At Hammer Nutrition, we recommend that athletes and active people consume a variety of protein sources AND the appropriate amount of protein each and every day. To help make thing easier for you - augmenting the protein you consume in your diet - we offer three outstanding protein powders: Soy, Vegan, and Whey. While all three protein sources have unique benefits, Hammer Nutrition's Whey Protein is hard to beat for enhancing recovery after exercise, and for boosting immune system function any time (especially when consumed prior to bed). Whey protein isolate is the optimum choice, and the type used in Hammer Whey Protein and Recoverite. Here's why:
Top-ranked protein source. No matter which standard is used to determine protein quality and bioavailability - Biological Value (BV), Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER), Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score (PDCAAS) - whey protein isolate comes out on top.
Unsurpassed muscle tissue repair. Of the nearly two dozen different amino acids required by humans, nine are classified as essential because they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be derived from external food sources. Among these nine essential amino acids are the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These are the primary amino acids that the body requires for a number of important applications, including muscle tissue repair post-workout. No other protein source contains a higher concentration than whey protein isolate.
Superior antioxidant support. Whey protein isolate contains high amounts of the amino acids needed for the production of glutathione, arguably the most important antioxidant there is. At least one study has shown that whey protein elevates glutathione levels more than any other protein source.
Infection-fighting properties. Whey protein has been shown to help fight infections. In one study, animals fed whey protein showed increased immune system function in response to challenges such as salmonella and streptococcus pneumonia. Though other protein sources were tested, this beneficial effect was unique to whey protein.
Immune system supporter extraordinaire. Whey protein also contains numerous subfractions, including beta lactalbumins, alpha lactalbumins, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulins, all of which possess immune system-boosting properties.
Heart healthy. Whey protein isolate contains bioactive peptides called lactokinins, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure in people with elevated blood pressure.
Anti-inflammation properties. Whey protein isolate has been purported to help reduce blood levels of C-reactive protein, indicating that it can help reduce inflammation.
But wait! There's more!
Each scoop of Hammer Nutrition's 100% whey protein isolate product, Hammer Whey, also contains a whopping 6,000 mg of glutamine, an amino acid which has numerous benefits attached to it, including its ability to dramatically enhance immune system function.
How much protein do I need?
See the chart below to determine if you are consuming enough protein daily (total from all sources). Create a daily protein intake journal and monitor your eating habits over the course of a normal training week. If you aren't getting enough protein, the time to start is now!
Summary
Whey protein isolate, the only type we use in Hammer Whey and Recoverite, is undoubtedly a protein source with a wide range of extraordinary benefits. Hammer Nutrition's Whey Protein is free of lactose, fat, gluten and added sugar, and is derived from US-raised, grass-fed, hormone-free and antibiotic-free cows. You won't find a cleaner, more potent protein than this!
