Proteins are one of the three basic nutrients of the diet, the other two being carbohydrates and fats. They perform many important functions: they are the basic building blocks of the body, which allows for its development and regeneration; they build muscles and are part of hair, skin and nails; transport various substances in the body, including oxygen, iron and vitamins; and are also responsible for the immune system (1). That is why not only the amount of protein consumed is so important, but also its quality.
Protein structure
Protein is made of smaller molecules - amino acids - each of which performs individual, unique functions in the body. Amino acids are divided into endogenous, i.e. those that the body can produce itself in appropriate amounts, and exogenous - these must be supplied with food. Due to the content of amino acids, we distinguish complete and incomplete proteins. Complete proteins provide the body with all exogenous amino acids in appropriate amounts and are usually proteins of animal origin: milk, eggs, meat. Incomplete proteins, usually plant proteins, contain an incomplete set of amino acids or all of them, but in too small amounts. However, using nutritional knowledge, you can select proteins so that they complement each other and, as a result, provide all the amino acids necessary for human health.
What proteins in meal replacements
Most meal replacements available on the Polish market are based on soy protein - it is cheap, easily available and has good nutritional values. However, it should be remembered that currently most of the soy grown in the world is genetically modified, which raises some concerns. Additionally, it is grown using Roundup, a strong pesticide whose main active substance is glyphosate - a compound considered carcinogenic. Moreover, soy contains thioglycosides, which, when consumed regularly, may contribute to the development of thyroid goiter (2), and hinders the absorption of iron from food.
A unique composition of proteins in SUPERSONIC Food Powder PLUS
SUPERSONIC Food Powder PLUS contains a mixture of plant proteins from pea, rice, pumpkin and hemp. Thanks to the combination of protein from various sources, the product is full-value, i.e. it provides the body with all the exogenous amino acids it needs. Due to its plant origin, the product is also intended for vegans, and the lack of soy means that people allergic to this plant can also consume it.
Bibliography:
(1) Jarosz, M., Rychlik, E., Stoś, K., Wierzejska, R., Wojtasik, A., Charzewska, J., ... & Chwojnowska, Z. (2017). Nutrition standards for the Polish population. Institute of Food and Nutrition.
(2) Samsel A, Seneff S. Glyphosate, pathways to modern diseases III: manganese, neurological diseases, and associated pathologies. Surg Neurol Int (2015) 6:45. doi:10.4103/2152-7806.153876
