Soy What?!

“Soy has been upheld for many years as the pinnacle of health and wellness. It has been over-glorified by being placed on a pedestal above foods that truly should represent health. Through all of its promotions, through all of the publicity, it has failed many people, leaving them with problems that are difficult to treat. Not every health fad is what it is cracked up to be. A little research into these effects goes a long way.” http://www.naturalnews.com/024407_soy_health_estrogen.html

Here are some little know facts about Soy-

-The soy that Westerners (Americans) consume is very different from the soy that Easterners (Asians) consume. Western soy is genetically engineered where Eastern soy is natural.

-Soy DOES NOT contribute to bone health. It actually increases the body’s need for calcium and vitamin D.

-Soy contributes to infertility. For women, painful and irregular periods are common and for men, a decreased sperm count can be found among heavy soy consumers.

-Soy formula is not a good sub for breast milk or even milk formulas. Soy based formulas are high in phytoestrogens and other anti-nutrients.

*Giving an infant soy formula is comparable to giving the baby five birth control pills.

“Whey protein is regarded as a supplement staple, used by athletes, bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts to help with muscle recovery, lean muscle growth, and general health.” http://www.muscleandstrength.com/expert-guides/whey-protein

Facts about Whey-

-Whey is a complete protein source (80%-90%)

-Whey is rapidly absorbed and digested.

-Whey helps maintain muscle mass and prevent age-related muscular atrophy.

-Whey enhances immune system functioning, especially in those who are physically active.

-Whey can provide anti-catabolic properties during prolonged aerobic activities.

Clearly, I buy Whey Protein Powder. Most protein powders are about 100-120 calories per scoop, have 1-2 grams of fat and 2 grams of sugar. I have protein powder once, sometimes twice a day. I make mine with original almond milk or coconut water. Sometimes I get bored of the same old protein shakes so here are some ways I like to shake it up (literally). Ha. 

½ banana+1tsp of cocoa+2tbs peanut butter

½ banada+1tsp of cocoa

½ banana+2tbs peanut butter

½ banada+strawberries

½ banana+2tbs coconut milk

2tbs coconut milk+1tsp cocoa

2tbs coconut milk

1tbs sugar free vanilla or chocolate pudding mix J tastes like a milk shake

1tbs sugar free vanilla pudding mix+ a handful of frozen strawberries

*I always get vanilla flavoured protein ‘cause I feel like it gives me more freedom when it comes to add-ins.

Protein is ESSENTIAL after your work out.  Consuming protein after exercise will help to repair the muscles used during exercise, the practice is nothing but beneficial.