The Power of Soy

Everyone knows that protein is an essential nutrient used by the body for a number of reasons. In fact, protein is so important that it is oftentimes considered the building blocks of the body. One form of protein that is often overlooked is soy protein. Soy protein is found in a number of different foods including soy milk, tofu, soy beans, soy ice cream and etcetera. It must also be considered that soy is the only plant-based food that is considered a complete protein based on its amino acid profile. Because soy is the only plant that is a complete protein, it is a staple of the diets of vegetarians and vegans who are looking for a well-balanced, protein rich diet. Soy milk is also a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant as well.

Due to it's various positive benefits, it is no wonder that soy products are becoming an increasingly popular source of protein. As I mentioned before, soy is an excellent source of protein to consume to compliment a well-rounded diet. Although particular variables cannot be isolated, consuming soy protein may prevent breast, colon, prostate and uterus cancer. This is attributed to the isoflavones found in soy, which has been proven to have anti-cancer and inhibitory effects on cancer as well. Soy has also been considered a possible way to reduce the risk of heart cancer considering that soy protein has been proven to reduce total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood pressure and possibly preventing plaque buildup in the arteries, which would lead to atherosclerosis. With these factors decreased, there is obviously less stress on the cardiovascular, which would greatly decrease one's risk for getting heart disease.

There are a number of other health benefits that may be experienced when consuming soy protein on a regular basis. For vegetarians and vegans it is an excellent, complete plant form of protein. Not to mention, it is a great alternative for meat eaters who are simply looking to reduce their daily intake of cholesterol that comes from red meat especially, while still consuming a healthy form of protein.

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Protein Isolate vs. Protein Concentrate

When it comes to protein, most people know that there are a number of different sources of complete proteins ranging from soy products, to meats, poultry and etcetera. However, when supplementing with protein, you must consider that there is a distinct difference between types of protein that you should be conscious of; protein isolates versus concentrates.

First off, the more commonly used form of protein powder consumed by your average person is whey protein concentrate. This is an ideal form for those looking to add a little more protein to their diet for a number of reasons. This is primarily because whey protein concentrates take longer to digest than their counterparts, which means that you are supplying your muscles with a protein source that will remain in your system for an extended period of time. This form of protein is great to take after a workout, but is also even better to take before you go to bed when your body goes for an extended period of time without fast, a.k.a. a fast. This ensures that muscle tissue is preserved during times of possible catabolism during sleep.

On the other hand, whey protein isolate is more ideal when taken after a workout as it is pre-digested and therefore a faster acting protein than a concentrate. After a strenuous workout, your muscle needs a pure form of protein that will be delivered to the muscles at a fast a rate as possible. Consequently, whey protein isolate is not the most practical form of protein to take before bedtime as it digests very quickly and will not necessarily ensure that the muscles are supplied with a long lasting protein source. However, in order to mimic the longer acting properties of a concentrate, you may also add peanut butter to your protein isolate powder to slow down the rate of digestion. So the next time you go to buy protein powder, consider what form is most practical for you, or perhaps designate certain times to take each as many people do.

College Dorms and Germs: Tips to Staying Healthy in College

Germs in college dorms is undoubtedly an issue that each and every student living in a dorm must face on a daily basis. The confined, and oftentimes unsanitary conditions found in your typical dormitory essentially make dorms a breeding ground for disease and germs. However, there are a number of ways that one can take measures to stay healthy year-round. Here are several helpful ways that may help you to do so:

• SLEEP- It is very easy to fall into the habit of staying up late at night even though you have to wake up for an early morning class. However, failing to get enough sleep greatly weakens the immune system making you more susceptible to become ill. So try to get at least 7 or 8 hours of solid sleep a night.


• EAT PLENTY OF FRUITS AND VEGGIES- By doing so, you are giving your body the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain normal functioning. Many of these vitamins are essential for fighting off sickness and boosting your immune system. This, however, does not mean that you should drink a gallon of orange juice when you feel as though you are getting sick, but rather, it means you should make a conscious effort to consume the recommended values of all vitamins and minerals.


• WASH YOUR HANDS- Wash your hands whenever you get the chance, not just after you use the bathroom. Thoroughly washing your hands as much as possible is one of the easiest ways to prevent sickness. Soap is made for a pretty good reason, so take advantage of it whenever you can. It also helps to invest in some sort of anti-bacterial hand sanitizer as well.


• AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE, MOUTH AND NOSE- The various openings found on the face are essentially a gateway for germs to directly enter you system. You must consider that by touching anywhere on your face, you may run the risk of having germs entering your body that may cause you to get sick.

These are just a few, yet simple and effective ways you can avoid gettin sick in a college environment and anywhere else for that matter.

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