Really confused - Exercise & Fitness Message Board

confused20 · 06-19-2005, 11:57 PM

Hi,
I have a question about whey protein. I see many different kinds and flavors. My concern is that I don't know which is ideal for me. My main goal is to bulk up a bit, with out mostly fat. So along with a work out program, what type of protein should I take. I've heard of whey protein, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey protein isolate/concentrate mix. Since I want to gain weight and there is no way I can do it on food alone (weak appetite) I'm looking for a little help. Which of these options would be best? Or would a weight gainer be better all together? Though I must mention I did try weight gainers before and they didn't really sit well. Thanks for any help.

Dexter77 · 06-20-2005, 05:07 AM

The difference between Whey isolate and concentrate is their protein content. Isolate contains minimal carbs and fats, while concentrate has a somewhat higher carb/fat content. As isolate is usually more expensive and doesn't taste as good as concentrates (due to more industrial processing), I would recommend concentrate unless you really want to lower your carb/fat intake.

I don't know how your diet looks like but wholesome foods are always better than supplements. Probably the only exception is post-workout whey protein. If you eat 6-8 or even 10 times a day, you can consume much more calories without feeling bloated. Also you can include some more beef in your diet or add some low-fat cheese as topping, maybe some legumes because these all increase your calorie intake.

Weight gainers are good but they may contain a lot of sugars, which are good if consumed post-workout, that may lead to bodyfat gains. Better if you find a good weight gainer/meal replacement product with complex carbs and minimal sugar content.

confused20 · 06-20-2005, 06:22 PM

Thanks dexter. I would assume whey concentrate would be best for me. I'm not just lacking muscle but body mass in general. So carbs and fats would actually do me some good. As far as my diet, I think I got a general idea of what's good and what I need to avoid. Problem is my appetite isn't so great and consuming those calories I need is a job in itself. Having said that, is there such a thing as TOO much protein? I've heard some say it is and some say it doesn't matter.

Dexter77 · 06-21-2005, 12:55 AM

The amount of protein you consume on a daily basis should depend on your physical activity. If you train hard including weight training and some cardio, your body needs at least 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight, but 1.5 g is better. So if you weigh, say, 160 lbs, you can consume 240 grams of protein. I don't think your body would need more with this body weight unless you start dieting by reducing your carb intake in ordet to get sliced and diced. But that's not your goat at the moment.

confused20 · 06-22-2005, 12:26 AM

Thanks again. Is there a certain amount of fats and carbs that I should consume? As far as a ratio? I'm pretty sure I need fats. But I don't think donuts are a good idea. So what kind of fats should I be eating?