For years, some health enthusiasts have ensued a lengthy debate on the benefits of soy protein vs. whey protein. The bone of contention is mainly focused on what is the best protein supplement between the two sources that could provide faster results in building and promoting muscle gain. Hence, many body builders who are directly concerned have taken sides on the much sensationalized soy protein vs. whey protein dispute.
Between the two protein sources, whey protein has certainly gained so much popularity among health buffs because of its highly effective anabolic effect in the growth of muscles in the human body. Whey protein is highly regarded to have the perfect combination of amino acid for muscle building and enhancing the bodies immune system. It is said to be a great post workout drink to ensure maximum absorption of protein by the muscles. This made whey protein far more superior than its alternative soy protein.
In the body building circles soy protein is often derided because it contains phytoestrogens that are said to cause unwanted decline in testosterone and an increase in the female hormone, estrogen. This was thought that this would upset the balance of hormones and could possibly trigger thyroid problems. There are also some nutritional experts who also suspected that soy should primarily be blamed for infertility, digestive disturbances, hypothyroidism and many other ailments. This bad publicity temporarily silenced the soy protein vs. whey protein debate.
However, contrary to the popular belief, recent studies have shown that soy protein does not in any way decrease testosterone or increase the estrogen in the body. This re-ignited the interest in the soy protein vs. whey protein dispute. Today, health professionals have reached a common consensus that all protein sources have basically the same favorable results in growing lean body mass. We can all safely assume that both soy and whey proteins are effective; there’s only a slight difference between the two as to their efficacy.
However, whey proteins are apparently more popular despite efforts to dispel the negative rumors about soy proteins. There are some athletes that combine soy and whey in their daily nutritional regimen. This is because the powerful combination of both protein sources is believed to have more effective results. Both proteins have their own health benefits and by alternately consuming both types of protein one can definitely benefit the best of both worlds, so to speak.
Personally I use both in my daily diet. I use a soy protein shake to supplement my diet as I find it convenient and complimentary to my regular food. I get the extra nutrition I need from it, without the added calories. I use a whey protein recovery shake after my weight lifting workouts. This helps me repair and maintain my muscle mass. Neither of these protein shakes will make me bulky and hugely muscular. That simply isn’t going to happen without huge amounts of weight lifting and consuming vast amounts of calories.
Soy protein is a great option for vegetarians and vegans due to the fact that it is a plant based protein. It is the only plant based protein that contains a full spectrum of essential amino acids and is considered to be a complete protein. Whey protein is a diary protein and is the by-product of cheese production. It is also considered a complete protein as it also contains a full spectrum of essential amino acids.
