The Planet: Category Articles

Protein 101 Part 1: Whey Protein

stryder — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:50:00 -0400

Most people are very confused when it comes to picking the protein that is right for them, and the differences between the various types of protein. The purpose of this article is to “de-mystify” this popular question. To put it simply, your body will use all protein in the same way; physiology wise—it will use it to build muscle. Now some proteins DO have added benefits beyond the cosmetic that any fitness enthusiast should want to know.

What is Protein?

A protein is a long chain or strand of amino acids linked together. Amino acids are the building blocks of organic matter. There are twenty amino acids found in our body, but a vast number is found in nature. Nine of these amino acids can be made by the body while the other eleven (essential amino acids) must come from the diet. Your body cannot make these essential amino acids. Amino acids combine into literally thousands of complex proteins and amino acid chains, and are also part of the process of making enzymes in our body. The 9 essential amino acids are:

Histidine 
Isoleucine 
Leucine
 Lysine
Methionine 
Phenylalanine 
Threonine 
Tryptophan 
Valine

The ones your body can make, or non essential ones are:

Alanine
 Arginine 
Asparagine
Aspartic acid 
Cysteine
Glutamic acid 
Glutamine 
Glycine 
Proline
 Serine
Tyrosine

What is Whey Protein?

Remember that old nursery rhyme Little Miss Muffet? “Little Miss Muffet, sat on her tuffet, eating her curds and whey”, well just as that nursery rhyme alludes to, whey protein comes from the cheese making process. Whey protein typically comes in three forms, concentrate, hydrolysates or hydrolyzed, and isolate (Whey Protein Isolate).

Isolates are processed to remove lactose and fat, but are usually lower in bioactive compounds as well. They are about 90% or more protein by weight and usually tastes pretty good with flavoring.
Concentrates contain a low level of fat and cholesterol but in general, have higher levels of bioactive compounds such as carbohydrates in the form of lactose (not good if you are lactose intolerant), and is about 29%-89% protein by weight.
Hydrolysates or hydrolyzed proteins are predigested, partially hydrolyzed whey proteins that are easily absorbed. This processing method tends to have a somewhat bitter taste some do not like.

Now lets get down to the nitty gritty as to why whey is so good for muscle growth and health.

Why Whey is the King of Proteins!

Whey is chock full of natural goodness than you can shake a stick at! Whey is full of natural “growth factors” which is mostly how it imparts it’s magic on muscles. Some of these are immunoglobulins, alpha-lactalbumin, beta-lactoglobulin, and colostrums. These are also some of the nutrients that are in the very popular protein Muscle Milk, and part of why it works so well. What do these growth factors do? Read on!

Immunoglobulins

Immunoglobulins are your body’s first line of defense against disease and infection, also known as antibodies. These are made by your immune system whenever your body is under attack. There are specific immunoglobulins for each type of disease or foreign substance that is attacking our body. Guess what these antibodies are made of…PROTEINS!

Immunoglobulins attach to the invading virus, bacteria, or substance and neutralizes them (this is also called antigen binding). One thing that makes whey so good is that it has high amounts of immunoglobulins in it. This is one reason why studies have shown whey can help boost your immune system. The stronger your immune system, the less likely you will get sick and the faster you recover from sickness. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts do not realize that working out may slightly depresses your immune system. So if you were able to halt or minimize the effects of that wouldn’t you?

Alpha-lactalbumin

Alpha-lactalbumin, also known as alpha-protein, is a form of whey protein found in the milk of all mammals. Human milk is about 60% whey vs. 40% casein, and Alpha-lactalbumin is the major protein present in the whey fraction of the milk, accounting for 30-35% of whey’s total protein content. This is a vital part of most baby formulas because of the ease of assimilating, and excellent amino acid profile.

Protein Timing

Another area of confusion for most consumers is when to take their protein supplement. The general consensus is to take protein on an empty stomach. The reason for this is because protein is made up of many complex amino acids and to receive it’s full benefit, it is best to take it on an empty stomach (30 minutes to an hour before or after a meal) for maximum absorption.

For athletes, it is best to take your protein within an hour after your workout. After intense training, the body enters into a catabolic or muscle wasting state. The body is ravaging itself to provide the necessary energy it needs for survival. Taking your protein right after training halts this catabolic state and the amino acids are utilized for muscle repair. For best results, consume moderate carbohydrates with your protein; post workout. We recommend Kwik Karb by NutraPlanet.

In Conclusion

As you can see, whey protein is a superior choice for those who are interested in maximizing athletic recovery and performance, as well as those who are interested in the health benefits of consuming more protein. NutraPlanet carries an extensive selection of whey protein at amazing prices, so be sure to checkout the variety of flavors and brands of whey protein at NutraPlanet!

NutraPlanet-NutraRelationships-NutraFamily

stryder — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:28:00 -0400

What motivates you? Why do you get out of bed every morning and go to work? Most people are motivated by money; they chase the B.B.D. (Bigger, Better, Deal) for most of their lives. There is nothing wrong with being successful; in fact we should all strive to do our best in everything we do, but the foundation on which you base your choices makes the difference between greed and true success.

Most bodybuilding companies are simply out to take the customer’s money. They do not care about health risks, supplement compatibility, or the reliability of the product; they just want to sell the customer on hype and high cost, because most consumers have bought into the lie that if the product is high dollar then it has to be the best. FALSE! Most of the time if a customer would research the product they would find the same supplement without all the smoke and mirrors for far less. These companies are out to do one thing and that is to make the sale, they don’t ask questions or listen to what the customer needs. These so called big boys may get that sale this time but an angry customer is usually not fooled twice, and they will eventually lose business.

NutraPlanet and its knowledgeable sales team is different!

We care about the customer and would prefer the consumer purchase the right product to fit their individual needs. We here at NutraPlanet are not simply inviting you to buy bodybuilding supplements from us; we are inviting you to share an experience with us. We want to see our products and customer service change your life. It has been proven that when a customer shops on our site and speaks with one of our trained team members, they come back to fill all of their health and bodybuilding needs with us. No one can match our prices and our commitment to the people we care about. Our sales style is relationship based, we care about you and we don’t simply want to sell you some pre-workout powder, we want to get to know you as a person. Therefore, we are not just inviting you to come to us with all of your supplement needs, but we are inviting you to join our family. Most people understand that a family is comprised of people you can trust, a group of people that will stand by you through the good times and the bad. Give us a try…we are committed to you! Your family is waiting to meet you, check out our site or give us a call, no strings attached; we’ll do whatever it takes to help you attain your goal!

One final question…Are you a slave to your body or have you made your body your slave? 1 Corinthians 9:27 says, “I beat my body and make it my slave so after I have preached to others I myself will not be disqualified from the prize.” Bodybuilding is a lifestyle and if you allow your body to remain in control you will never accomplish what you originally set out to do, so you have to fight and train to do whatever it takes to you stay in control. Become a body-beater!

Resveratrol Information: Uses and Benefits

stryder — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 12:07:00 -0400

Resveratrol was first isolated in 1940 from the roots of the white hellebore plant. It has since been found in various plants, including grapes, berries, Hy Zhang root, Giant Knotweed, and peanuts in varying amounts.

Resveratrol is a chemical that is classified under a group of compounds known as phytoalexins. These compounds are produced by plants that have been stressed or are under attack by bacteria and fungus, acting as “antibiotics” and helping to fight against the attacking organism. The type of plant, region, and severity of attack, determines how much Resveratrol is produced.

Resveratrol first came under the public microscope when scientists started studying the French paradox. The French paradox dealt with questions as to why heart disease, high cholesterol, and subsequent related health problems and deaths were so low among the French. The paradox lies in the fact that the French culture has a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol; which is consumed daily in a course style manner. The fact that a glass of wine accompanied most meals did not elude researchers, so they focused on the many phytonutrients that are found in wine. The scrutiny on this paradox culminated in a 2006 study that found mice lived longer when given a Resveratrol supplement. Interest in Resveratrol has risen immensely in the past few years and with the multitude of benefits, one can see why.

Some of the benefits of Resveratrol may include:

Enhances eyesight and color perception
Decreases blood pressure
Decreases cholesterol
May normalize estrogen levels
May normalize prolactin levels
Induces biological changes that mimics a calorie restricted environment
Enhances cell wall integrity and promotes vessel elasticity and overall cardiovascular health
Fantastic antioxidant with high ORAC levels
Increases cardiovascular endurance and efficiency
Glucose disposal
Anti-inflammatory
Possible anti-cancer activity
May be a neuro-protectant
May act as a SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators)
Anti-aging
May stimulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, inducing a positive testosterone response, without inducing adverse effects.

Its anti-aging potential seems to come from Resveratrol’s activating enzymes, which prolongs the time cells have to repair broken DNA. Also related, its calorie restricting ability seems to be involved with the activation of the SIRT1 enzyme which has a higher level in the blood stream when the body is in a caloric deficit (dieting). When this enzyme is secreted in abundance in lab rats: decreased cholesterol, increased mitochondria, lower insulin levels, and low blood sugar have been noted.

Some studies have shown the compound can extend the lifespan of mice by around 15%, and fruit flies over 90%. Resveratrol seems to boost muscle endurance by increasing the amount and production of the “powerhouse” of muscle cells, the mitochondria. Mitochondrion produces Adenosine-Tri-Phosphate, which fuels the first few seconds of any movement, as well as acting as fuel for many bodily processes. For bodybuilders and health enthusiasts this basically means the more of these powerhouses you have working hard for you, the harder you can work out!

The fact that Resveratrol has well documented anti estrogen effects means it is a great choice for an all natural testosterone booster such as the NutraPlanet TNT Stack™, as well as an ideal counterpart to PCT where it can also be useful to inhibit prolactin in addition to preventing a rebound in estrogen. The blood pressure and cholesterol lowering effects can also be of help if one is taking hormones or anything that may cause these to rise. If you are dieting, trying to lose a few pounds, or just trying to stay lean, the glucose disposal and caloric deficit mimicking effects make this a no-brainer to use in your daily supplement arsenal.

With the myriad of health benefits: cosmetic, external, and internal, Resveratrol should be in the arsenal of anyone interested in Hardcore Health!

Bodybuilding and Fitness Uses of Resveratrol

One thing that grape seed extract has been known for is extending and enhancing the effectiveness of nitric oxide supplements. These supplements increase the formation of a gas called nitric oxide, which acts as a vasodilator. A vasodilator is a substance that expands blood vessels. This in turn enables more blood to flow through the vessels. This will give you the appearance of being much bigger, leaner, and harder—depending on your body fat levels.

Effects of increased nitric oxide production go beyond the purely cosmetic. The increased blood flow also brings more oxygen, (potentially increasing endurance), and nutrients (potentially increasing recovery and growth), and of course you get the pumped up feeling that most fitness enthusiasts love. Research shows that Resveratrol has the same exciting N.O. enhancing activity of grape seed; it does this by inducing more production of nitric oxide synthase. This enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of nitric oxide.

The usual supplement used to achieve this N.O. Explosion, is L-Arginine, or one of its many forms, including Arginine Ethyl Ester, (AEE) and Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG). There are also other N.O. boosters that offer the same benefits using different pathways such as Norvaline, Citrulline Malate, Cordyceps, Coleus Forskohlii, and Beta Alanine. These other compounds also have health benefits as well.

For a quick boost to your NO-Xplode, Nos-Ether, Super Pump, or any other N.O. supplement, add a cap of Resveratrol and you will feel the difference!

Anti Inflammatory Effects

It is a well-known fact that the root of many medical problems, disorders, and diseases can be traced to some sort of inflammatory response within the body. Two of the most notable would be cardiovascular disease and cancer.

There are new studies and evidences that show Resveratrol exhibits a variety of different pathways to exert its anti-inflammatory effects. By down-regulating the inflammatory response and inhibiting the synthesis and release of inflammatory intermediaries, and inhibiting certain enzymes like COX-2 and iNOS. Another key to Resveratrol’s anti-inflammatory action is the inhibition of Activator Protein 1 (AP-1 for short). Activator Protein 1 seems to be inhibited by Resveratrol, AP-1 similarly is important in the regulating of inflammatory genes caused by oxidative stress and its inhibition may contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of Resveratrol. This is possibly the main pathway which Resveratrol may exert its anti-cancer effects.

Muscle Fiber Switching

One other thing of note for sport enthusiasts is the possibility that Resveratrol may be able to change the predominant muscle fibers a person has. Everyone has both slow twitch fibers, (type 1) and fast twitch fibers, (type 2, subcategorized into 2a and 2b). Slow twitch fibers have more mitochondria than the fast twitch fibers, which is why they are harder to tire, and are used in activities that call for endurance, high aerobic capacity and constant movement (like running). These types of fibers contract more slowly than their fast twitch brethren, which consume less energy. Fast twitch fibers, on the other hand, fire fast and often, which consumes more energy. These are the muscle fibers predominantly used in anaerobic activities such as sprinting and weightlifting. Type 2a fibers are a blend of both fibers, while 2b is the quick powerful contracting fibers. We are born with close to the same percentage of both fibers for a 50/50 mix for the most part. Those rare individuals that may have more fibers of one type will excel in a sport or activity that lends itself to their predominant muscle fiber type. So for instance, if you have more fast twitch fibers, you have the tools to be a good power lifter. If you have more slow twitch, then you have the tools to be a good marathon runner. We have known for a while that training in certain ways can have a beneficial effect on certain fiber types, and can help you make one type predominant. For instance, if you train in plyometrics long enough, you may influence in a positive manner the amount of fast twitch fibers you have, making quick powerful movements easier. What does all of this have to do with Resveratrol? It seems that this super nutrient can also influence the ratio of fibers you have. Combined with proper training, this can be enhanced. One study was done on mice which showed this “fiber switching” without exercise! So far it appears that Resveratrol only causes switching to type 1 fibers. Scientists are also unsure of how this is, because Resveratrol works on so many different pathways. Hopefully more research will soon shed light on this exciting development.

Assimilation and Use

One final note on Resveratrol is its bioavailability. Resveratrol is metabolized so quickly, that high blood concentrations are difficult to obtain. Taking your entire daily dose, along with something like Bioperine, should help Resveratrol be utilized more efficiently.

Because of Resveratrol’s anti-inflammatory effects, it should not be taken with compounds that cause inflammation for a beneficial effect, such as Arachidonic Acid (X Factor). Also, an additional amount of vitamin C should be taken as Resveratrol may inhibit its absorption.

Written by R. McCall

What is NutraPlanet?

stryder — Wed, 21 May 2008 22:47:11 -0400

Although it is considered taboo to answer a question with a question, I'm not the traditional type to follow the general rules and guidelines of conventional practices; therefore, I will retort with a more specific question, "Why NutraPlanet?". Before we can truly determine what something is, we must isolate it to it's original purpose: in other words, before we can understand what something is, we must understand why something is. Have I lost you? Good! Now continue reading on...

What's in a Name?

Before NutraPlanet came to fruition, it was merely a concept--a hypothesis waiting to be challenged through tangible measures...longing to prove itself into existence. Before the determined nature of conceiving a formal business plan for a successful startup, an idea was birthed in an unorthodox way. First came the concept: offer a service, and do it in a way that others cannot do, or choose not to do. Next came the name...it was subtle, almost a surreal "If you build it, they will come", manner. The name came so easily, it was almost divine intervention: "NutraPlanet" (the voice echoed). The purpose was already there, in it's static form waiting to burst out in it's long awaited dynamics. Then through the natural process of the human psyche, came doubt...

Swimming Upstream is Instinctive

It is believed by some, that humans choose the path of most resistance, much like trout. It is instinctive and ingrained. If something is that easy, it must be wrong...we overanalyze and over-critique what the obvious answer is, and miss out on the opportunity that stares us right in the face. Almost to the same fate, I wrested with the venture of creating this "NutraPlanet". It was new, it was unchartered territory, it was scary...it was a challenge! Many a times I pushed it into the back of my cluttered mind thinking, "that would be interesting", but never giving it more than a passing thought. But persistence pays off! The unrelenting reminder of creating this journey kept creeping back to the surface, and finally, I took the next step...with eyes wide shut, in blind faith, I jumped!

Clearly Ambiguous

Now with a driving force behind me, I took it to the extreme. I walked away from what had become easy and comfortable to me, and was off on a journey of self discovery through the unknown. It was difficult, and yet it was effortless. It was foreign, and yet it was extraordinary. The next step wasn't mapped out, the course wasn't predetermined by the consciousness, but an internal compass was directing me through an almost spiritual journey, crossing paths with many interesting and talented people. The time had come for me to form my core infrastructure and truly set sail into my odyssey.

The Freedom of Supplements

stryder — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:35:52 -0400

In a day and age when supplement freedoms are constantly on the verge of extinction, it's no reason that more and more people are turning to the internet to learn and educate themselves on alternative means of achieving their health and fitness goals.

NutraPlanet is dedicated to going the extra mile in bringing you cutting edge supplements and the information and science to back it up. With so much marketing hype in the industry, it's hard to make an informed decision on whether or not a certain dietary supplement is right for you. That's why we've complied an extensive database of unbiased customer product reviews direct from consumers' personal experience.; not only that, we've also scoured the web in order to bring you information direct from studies conducted on specific nutritional compounds to help you make an educated decision, that's right for YOU!

Whether you're looking for a safe anabolic bodybuilding supplement, best weight loss product, or something for overall immune health, we've got you covered. NutraPlanet is above and beyond your ordinary internet supplement retailer. We are dedicated in bringing you the best supplements for overall health and fitness.

Be on the lookout for a slew of new tried and true products in the NutraPlanet lineup of high quality supplements at affordable discount prices. NutraPlanet, your source for the best selection of bodybuilding and health supplements at the lowest overall price, and unbeatable customer service...guaranteed!

Creatine 101

stryder — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:56:00 -0400

Creatine is a natural constituent of cheese and meat, with the highest concentration found in red meat. Creatine is naturally found in the body, and is made from the amino acids arginine, glycine, and methionine. Your body can only store a finite, and small amount, before it has to synthesize more. This process takes place in the kidneys, liver, and pancreas.

Creatine works it's magic, by helping your body synthesize more ATP than it normally would be able to. ATP, or Adenosine triphosphate, is produced in the mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell), and is the "power" that fuels any short-term muscular contractions. When a muscle contracts, bonds in the ATP molecule are split, yielding ADP (adenosine-diphosphate). Energy released by this "Holy Union" powers and contracts the muscle.

"The biggest thing to hit bodybuilding since protein!"

The myriad of possible health benefits from creatine supplementation is mind-boggling; with potential uses beyond bodybuilding and fitness. Here’s a quick rundown:

Increases strength and endurance
May increase protein synthesis
Decreases fat stores
Exhibits properties as a neuro protectant. May be useful in combating certain neuro disorders, under certain conditions.
May increase alertness, by elevating ATP production in the brain.
May be helpful as a neuro protectant under hypoxic conditions.
May help maintain strength in individuals with certain musculo-skeletal, and muscle wasting diseases.

Different types of creatine

Most studies conducted on creatine, used creatine monohydrate, this type of creatine is bound to a water molecule. Creatine by itself is unstable, hence binding it to a more stable molecule, will yield better assimilation.

Creatine Monohydrate has hundreds of studies proving it's "Real world" effectiveness. Some users however, are non-responders. The "OLD" thinking was to combine creatine with a simple carbohydrate, which would illicit an insulin spike. The ensuing spike would transport the creatine into the muscle, forcing more than your body would normally absorb. While this worked great, there is still the concern of the extra calories consumed by this method, and the bloating and GI discomfort some users report.

"Here I come to save the day!"

Because of these issues, new types of creatine have been developed over the years. The most widely known alternate source is CEE, or creatine ethyl ester. This creatine increases absorption, by bonding an ester (think of it as an extra molecule), to the creatine molecule. This in turn helps improve absorption, as esterification will allow it to be absorbed in adipose (fat) tissue, where normal monohydrate does not.

Creatine Gluconate, on the other hand, is bound to gluconic acid, and a chelated mineral. Chelation is a process of binding a mineral to an amino acid, which enhances bioavailability.

Tri-creatine Malate combines creatine with malic acid. Malic acid is important in energy production and is an intermediary in the krebs cycle, which helps keep the creatine molecule intact once ingested. Once in the stomach, it is then readily broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream.

Forearmed with this knowledge, you should be able to pick which creatine is best for you. We have a variety of creatine products and blends, to help you achieve your ultimate physique!