The importance of protein for kids and adults is not a new concept. In fact, it has been researched extensively in recent years to promote strength and muscle development while building muscles and losing weight. Many times we hear or read about children that are extremely thin and why this is.1 Many times the parents will ask the question as to why a child may be so skinny and the answer is often due to a lack of protein in his diet. However, just because kids do not need protein does not mean that adults do not need protein. Just like kids need protein but adults can also benefit from protein as well.2
There are two major ways that adults get protein into their diets; one is by eating protein-rich food such as meats, eggs, soy products, nuts, and vegetables. The second method of getting protein into your diet is by taking supplements that contain protein or proteins and other vitamins and minerals that will help you meet your daily protein requirements. While both kids and adults need protein, they need it in different proportions and in different amounts as opposed to when they were younger.3
The importance of protein for kids and adults is that as kids, our bodies are developing in order to fully develop into adults. As we continue to grow and develop, our body slows down and we no longer have the same amount of protein that we did when we were children.4 That is why there are cases of adults with gynecomastia (enlarged breasts) as men are more genetically inclined to have that condition as opposed to girls. Adults have a slower digestive system and are also taking in more protein than kids because of that. Therefore, protein is very important for them and can lead to significant health benefits.
What is Rice Protein?
If you’re looking to get back into shape, it’s not difficult to find a variety of reasons that make rice protein a popular choice. This type of protein is used in many kinds of protein powders, including shakes and even regular protein bars. Unlike other types of protein, rice protein does not come from an animal byproduct but instead comes from rice. The reason this protein is so favored by athletes and bodybuilders is the fact that it’s a complete protein with complete amino acids.5
It’s also easier for the body to absorb compared to other protein sources. Whereas other proteins have to go through the digestive process before being absorbed into the muscles, this protein can be absorbed right into the muscles immediately. Like other types of protein, rice protein has amino acids that can help enhance protein synthesis, a key factor for muscle growth and repair.6
Because it’s absorbed directly into the muscles, there are no hassles with breaking down the protein or having to wait for it to be broken down before it’s absorbed. In addition to its fast absorption rate, rice protein also has a low glycemic index, meaning that it has minimal impact on blood sugar levels and doesn’t cause significant changes after being consumed.7
What Are the Benefits of Rice Protein Powder?
Many people ask what are the benefits of rice protein. It seems everyone is on the hunt for that next great protein source! While protein is essential to building and repairing tissue, it is also quickly digested by the body, making it an excellent choice when consumed.
- Rice protein doesn’t contain true protein. Rice is a grain and like all grains contains protein, it is found in varying amounts within the edible portions. There are several types of rice protein from which to choose: black, red, and white. The best way to get a full spectrum of protein from plant proteins is to purchase a multi-grain variety that will provide you with the most nutrients.
- Rice proteins contain no fat. In reality, the only time you’ll see a benefit from this type of food is when consuming it in place of another source of protein.8 Because it lacks fat, rice protein benefits can be neutralized by a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It is important to remember that a healthy diet must include a balance of protein sources in order for your body to build muscle and burn fat.
- Another great reason to consider the benefits of rice protein is that it is very easy to digest. The protein found in brown rice protein has been compared to that of white rice, but without the grainy texture. This allows people with sensitive diets to enjoy the protein without having to worry about its after-taste. A great way to take advantage of the rice protein’s convenience is to purchase rice protein bars, which have the protein but without the grainy aftertaste.9
There are many other benefits of rice protein powders. The best way to determine what are the benefits of rice protein powder for you is by determining your personal needs. If you have undergone any type of medical treatment or are following a gluten-free diet, you may want to stay clear of rice protein powder in an effort to keep your diet on track. However, if you have not had any medical issues and your goal is simply to boost the nutritional value of your daily diet, rice can be a great addition to your diet.
Benefits of Rice Protein For Weight Loss
Rice protein has become a staple food for many people because it is easy to prepare, quick to digest and contains all of the essential amino acids our bodies need to function.10 Many nutrition experts recommend consuming one serving of protein per pound of body weight every day as a dietary supplement. This may sound like a lot of food, but our body really does need a daily amount that meets our daily nutritional needs. Adding rice protein to our diet can help us meet those needs and give us the added benefit of added energy and vitality.11
There are a variety of benefits associated with consuming rice protein powders including promoting weight loss. While it is not commonly known that consuming chia seeds also results in weight loss, this can be true in some cases. The reason why chia seeds are able to promote weight loss is due to their high soluble fiber content. Fiber provides a number of benefits including regular bowel movement, lowering cholesterol and helping to prevent constipation. Because of their high fiber content, chia seeds also help to cleanse the colon, thus helping eliminate waste and toxins that occur in our body.
Rice protein powders made from organic products are the healthiest choice on the market. To find an organic brand, shop at health food stores or online and look for products that are certified organic. While it may take some time to experiment with different brands, in the end you will be glad you have made the decision to add protein powder to your diet.
Is Rice Protein a Good Choice For Muscle Growth?
Protein is one of the most important building blocks of our bodies. It provides the body with the essential amino acids that help it to build and repair its muscles after every workout. If you’re a bodybuilder or a gym enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of protein supplements such as whey, casein, egg and soy protein powders. But there are a few more kinds of protein that may be useful to athletes and gym goers who want to improve their muscle growth, as well as those who simply want to get bigger, stronger and leaner–without having to take supplements. 12
Most protein powders on the market contain either casein or whey–the two most popular types of proteins.13 While no scientific studies have yet been done on the effects of rice protein for muscle growth, most athletes occasionally add 10 to 15 grams of rice protein to their supplements for increased protein intake. While this may seem like a negligible amount of rice to take in, studies have shown that people who regularly consume casein protein are less likely to suffer from certain kidney diseases, including cancer, and have higher energy levels than those who don’t.
If you’re trying to decide between protein powders like casein and whey, or soy and rice, it’s important to consider how much of each you need to consume on a daily basis to maximize muscle growth. Casein and whey are both excellent sources of protein for bodybuilders, but rice protein has even been shown to aid dieters in weight loss and may help prevent injuries. No one protein suits everyone; just keep in mind that protein is an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet and that there’s no substitute for eating lots of food to get plenty of it. While rice protein supplements may not be the quickest way to gain pounds, studies have shown that they do have some positive health benefits.
Image Credits
Sweet Additions / October 29, 2019
Shopee / 2021
Amazon / 2021
Muscle Hacking / October 2018
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11 “Is Rice Protein Right for Me? – BlenderBottle.” 19 Mar. 2018, https://blog.blenderbottle.com/is-rice-protein-right-for-me Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
12 “What are the different types of protein, and what’s the difference?.” 27 Aug. 2019, https://mend.me/all-about-protein/ Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.
13 “What’s the Difference Between Casein and Whey Protein? – Healthline.” 30 Aug. 2018, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/casein-vs-whey Accessed 10 Aug. 2021.