It is common knowledge that protein is required for building and repairing muscle. However, there are different types of protein that act differently and digest at different speeds. As one progresses in their fitness journey, understanding the difference between different types of protein is crucial in order to continue to reap as much benefit as possible.

The Right Sources of Protein

In an effort to build muscle, it is a popular idea that any source of protein will do; this couldn’t be any farther from the truth. Many resort to the inclusion of various protein bars and meal replacement shakes such as Muscle Milk, protein sources that include very high amounts of dairy and soy, compounds that promote estrogen production and discourage the function of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is the hormone that aids the body in burning fat and building muscle, while abundant amounts of estrogen make those tasks harder to complete. Avoiding soy and dairy sources of protein one puts themselves in a more likely position to accomplish their goal. Opting for whey, casein and animal sources of protein are much better options for protein consumption.

Rates of Digestion

Different sources of protein have different digestion rates in the body, making some types of protein more ideal than others in certain situations. Casein is a source of protein that digests slower than other types of protein and is therefore ideal prior to sleeping in order to feed the body while one sleeps. For post workout supplementation, whey protein isolate and hydrolyzed whey are the best options as they are absorbed the quickest. Light sources of protein such as tilapia and cod absorb quicker compared to other solid sources of protein. Depending on what the goal is, different sources of protein are more optimal than others.