Highlighting Soy Protein Advantages For Endurance Athletes

Dr. Douglas Kalman of Miami Research Associates delivered good news for soy protein and its use for the endurance athlete.

Kalman presented "Whey, Casein, Soy: Why Protein Sources are Different: Applications for Endurance Athletes," which highlighted several direct and comparative studies that examined just how, and if, these varied protein sources can be of benefit to the active adult.

Kalman said soy protein has at least two significant advantages that need to be known.

"While each protein source has its own benefits for metabolism, soy should be better recognized for its quick absorption rates, which means it can enhance muscle and exercise recovery, and its ability to have positive effects whether used in food or powder form," he said.

Kalman's recently peer-reviewed published study, "Effect of protein source and resistance training on body composition and sex hormones," examined the effects of soy and whey in healthy active weightlifting males over a 12-week period. The study found soy protein was just as effective as whey in its ability to help weightlifting males gain muscle. Additional findings noted soy did not have any negative effects on male hormonal levels. The study suggests soy and soy mixed with whey protein had positive effects on male sex hormones.

"Whether you are in a strict exercise regimen or just getting started, soy and other proteins deliver a great source of protein to build muscles," said Dr. Kathy Greaves, Solae Clinical Nutrition Group Lead. "The take home message of Dr. Kalman's presentation is clear: soy protein should be on the athlete's menu plan, and it is a safe, effective dietary protein that has many health-enhancing effects."

Dr. Jose Antonio, the ISSN Conference Chair, said athletes should strongly consider soy protein as a part of their diet.

"The Kalman study clearly delineated that the inclusion of soy protein as part of an athlete's nutritional plan is smart for more than just the obvious heart health reasons," Antonio said. "Now, we can state unequivocally that soy protein can have a strong, positive effect on muscle gains for the athlete when used almost daily and ingested after the workout.