Soya Protein vs Whey Protein
Protein supplements are essential for individuals participating in bodybuilding and are also used by people through various food sources for general well-being and maintaining good health. Traditionally, whey protein has been considered superior to other protein sources in supporting bodybuilding efforts. However, more recently, soya protein has also proven to be equally effective in meeting the nutritional needs of those trying to build muscles. This article aims to highlight the features of both whey protein and soya protein, helping readers choose the one that best meets their health requirements.
Whey protein is a by-product of milk, whereas soy protein comes from soybeans. It is challenging to determine which of the two proteins is superior, as both are processed to obtain a high level of protein used in bodybuilding. Both are high-quality proteins and have beneficial effects on the human body when taken in moderation and according to a dietician’s recommendations in a gym. It is well known that consuming high proteins before engaging in bodybuilding exercises daily enhances the effects of the workouts. However, there are differences between these two high proteins that need to be highlighted.
Key Takeaways
- Biological Value (BV) is one factor that differentiates between whey and soy proteins. It is a measure of the amount of nitrogen retained by the body upon consumption of protein compared to the amount of protein consumed. Soy protein has a BV of 74, whereas whey protein has a BV of 104, meaning that whey protein is ahead of soy protein in terms of BV.
- Net Protein Utilization (NPU) is a measure of protein used by the body compared to the amount of protein consumed. It is expressed as a percentage and ranges from 0 to 100. Soy protein has an NPU of 61, whereas whey protein has an NPU equal to 92, indicating that whey protein wins against soy protein regarding NPU.
- Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that transports nitrogen to body tissues and increases muscle cell volume. This means that those needing to build muscles must consume glutamine 2-3 times the daily intake. Soy protein contains 10.5g/100 g of protein, whereas whey protein contains just 4.9g of glutamine per 100g of protein. This suggests that, on this count, soy protein is far ahead of whey protein.
It is clear that both whey and soy proteins have their unique features and distinct characteristics, yet both are equally beneficial for our health. On some counts, whey protein is ahead of soy protein, while there are some points where soy proteins win against whey protein.
