The Essential Guide To Protein

Protein Helps Gain Muscle & Strength

The reason so many individuals at the gym have protein shakes when they workout is because adding more protein can increase muscle gain, increase strength, and improve performance when weight training.

Protein is used for growth and building of new tissue and to repair broken or torn tissue. When the body lacks protein, it begins to break down muscle tissue to receive its daily requirements. It is also important to time protein consumption to maintain a positive nitrogen balance and stay in an anabolic state.

Take in protein every three to four hours over the course of five to six meals, or three meals and two to three high protein snacks or shakes. It is also essential to have a small meal before bed, as the body generally goes into a catabolic state at this point.

What is this talk of anabolic and catabolic? Keep reading to find out.

Anabolic And Catabolic States

Anabolism and catabolism are both two metabolic processes. The anabolic state is a metabolic process that uses energy to build molecules that the body needs. The anabolic reaction causes small molecules to join together to make larger ones and generate complex molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. When exercising in an anabolic state, the body begins to build muscle mass.

The catabolic state is the process of releasing energy and breaking down large molecules into smaller molecules. Catabolic exercises are good at burning fat and calories to shed a few pounds.

Now that you know about the anabolic and catabolic states, continue reading to learn about the most common types of protein.