Protein Supplements and Nutrients Overview

Study Notes

Protein supplements comprise 40-70% of inactive ingredients, such as maltodextrin, which has a glycemic index (GI) of 106-136.
Major components of protein powders include amino acids, soluble fiber, vitamins, magnesium, selenium, and astaxanthin.

Macro-nutrients: Include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats- composed of rice, wheat (carbohydrates), eggs and dal (protein), and butter and oil (fats).
Micro-nutrients: Include vitamins and minerals primarily derived from fruits and vegetables, which are vital for body functions.

Dietary proteins are broken down into peptides in the stomach by enzymes, then further into amino acids in the small intestine for absorption.
Absorbed amino acids are transported to the liver to synthesize various body proteins, such as antibodies.

There are nine essential amino acids (EAA) that must be sourced from food.
The liver synthesizes six conditionally essential amino acids (CEAA) and non-essential amino acids (NEAA) from EAAs.
Protein synthesis requires all nine EAAs to be present in adequate proportions.

BCAAs: Promote muscle protein synthesis; beneficial for preventing lean muscle loss.
Lysine: Key for carnitine synthesis, aiding energy production.
Threonine: Important for mucin formation and antibody production.
Arginine: Contributes to nitric oxide synthesis, regulating blood pressure.
Glycine: Crucial for collagen synthesis, promoting tissue health.
Cysteine & Taurine: Play roles in antioxidant protection and cardiovascular health.
Astaxanthin: A potent antioxidant with protective effects against various health issues.

Free radicals generated during oxidation can lead to oxidative stress, linked to age-related disorders.
Glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) act as primary antioxidants; GSH is synthesized from glutamine, cysteine, and glycine.
Selenium boosts the production of GPx, enhancing antioxidant defenses in the body.
Astaxanthin, derived from freshwater algae, exhibits superior antioxidant properties, being much more potent than Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

Water constitutes about 60% of adult body weight and is essential for nutrient absorption and hydration. Daily intake should be around 3-4 liters.
RMD (soluble fiber) aids digestion, lowers cholesterol, and helps maintain blood sugar levels; beneficial for conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Amino acids from protein sources vary in their percentage utilized for protein synthesis.
AminoRich XP: 100% utilized; Whole eggs: 99%; Meat, chicken, and fish: 82%; Whey, soy, and nuts: 75% or less.

Many protein powders contain 40-70% inactive ingredients, including sugars, and take 3-8 hours for absorption, highlighting the efficiency of AminoRich XP.