NSCA Bulletin 36.06 | Page 25
Make a Plan for Protein
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Three steps to choosing protein:
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QUALITY
Not all proteins are equal for muscle protein synthesis – quality matters! For example, whey
protein is a high-quality, complete protein containing all of the EAA* and high levels of BCAA.**
BCAA Content of Foods
Leucine
1 scoop (36 g) whey
protein isolate†
1 scoop (36 g) soy
protein isolate
3.5 oz sirloin steak
3.5 oz chicken breast
1 cup low-fat yogurt
1 cup skim milk
1 egg
2 tbsp peanut butter
Isoleucine
Valine
4.7 g
2.1 g
1.9 g
2.4 g
2.3 g
2.5 g
1.3 g
0.9 g
0.5 g
0.5 g
1.5 g
1.3 g
1.5 g
0.7 g
0.5 g
0.3 g
0.2 g
1.5 g
1.4 g
1.6 g
1.1 g
0.6 g
0.4 g
0.2 g
USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 26
†
USDEC Reference Manual for U.S. Whey and Lactose Products
VERSATILITY
Whey protein can easily be added to a variety of foods and recipes.
More whey recipes can be found at www.wheyprotein.nationaldairycouncil.org/recipes.
• Stir into hot foods (not • Use as an
boiling), such as
ingredient in
soups, pasta sauces
baked goods
and stews immediately
after cooking
• Include in savory
or sweet dips
• Stir into hot cereal
or creamy sauces
TIMING
Add high-quality protein, such as whey protein, to meals and
snacks to boost protein intake. Some experts suggest 20-35 g at
each meal to help maintain muscle. Here are a few ideas:
• Add to peanut
or other nut
butters
Include protein after
exercise to help with
muscle recovery!
Breakfast
Berry Smoothie:
Nonfat Greek yogurt,
frozen berries,
banana, ice +
3 tbsp
vanilla
whey
protein
powder
Lunch
Tomato soup +
2 tbsp whey protein
powder, whole
wheat toast with lowfat cheese, apple
* Essential amino acids
** Branched chain amino acids
© 2014 National Dairy Council
For more information and recipes, visit us at www.wheyprotein.nationaldairycouncil.org.
Refer to your registered dietitian or healthcare provider for specific meal
and calorie recommendations.
Snack
Carrots and whole
wheat pretzels,
reduced fat ranch
dressing + 2 tbsp
whey protein powder
Dinner
Whole wheat pasta,
marinara sauce +
3 tbsp whey protein
powder, spinach salad
with Italian dressing