What is the difference between soy protein and “regular” protein? I have seen soy protein drinks and am wondering if they work any differently than regular protein drinks. Do they help build muscles differently? Should I eat different foods if I decide to try a soy protein drink? Or am I just better off with the regular ones?
Thanks,
Adam
Take the pebble
from my hand
“You ain’t the only one
who knows some sh*t”
Soy protein has “health benefits” it’s been shown to lower cholesterol,stimulate bone formation, reduce chances of kidney disease and slow the growth of cancer. It has even killed cancer cells in mice. As far as muscle building, I dunno how it compares to other forms of protein.
"Just because I joke around sometimes doesn’t mean I’m serious about kung-fu.
" - nightair
I believe that the proteins per se are the same, same amino acid compounds regardless of source. The difference would be what comes along with the protein, eg if you eat meat you will inevitably end up with some fat as well.
Soy Protein is a lower grade protein. It isn’t absorb as quickly or effectively as whey protein. If you are bodybuilding than whey isolate is the fastest protein for absorption rates. Milk protein is called cacein from calcium casienate, which is also a good grade protein, however, has a slower absorption rate. Whey and whey isolate proteins are superior in post workout meals and usually casein is ideal prior to bed as it will absorb slowly throughout the night keeping you out of a catabolic state. From what I’ve read/seen/heard soy protein is mainly marketed to vegetarians who don’t want other forms of protein, other than that most of the advantages are just hype.
There was some research report they were quoting on t-mag.com that said that Soy protein was shown to increase estrogen production and decrease testosterone. They admitted that the findings in this may be on a minute, negligible level; and it’s no reason to cut Soy out of your diet if you like it, but that it’s something to be aware of.
Just some thoughts from an ignoramus.
From what I have read, soy protein is an alternative protein for people/males that are lactose intolerant. Soy protein is better for woment due to the fact it has the has the highest assimilation(this is when protein turns to muscle)
percentage. For males whey protein has the highest assimilation percentage with egg protein coming in last.
Hope this helps,
Derrin Vargas
Soy rocks
I’m with 7star.
I wouldn’t trade health for higher absorption but that’s a matter of personal priority. Being vegan I don’t think absorption is an issue for me - half my food is soya-bean derived so I guess I can’t fail to get enough…
Don’t you get bad breath from consuming stuff like “whey isolate” before bed?
The powers of Kung Fu never fail!
– Hong Kong Phooey
I’m vegan too and I think that as long as you eat a healthy well balanced diet all your protein needs will be taken care of. If you really think you need more protein I would recomend getting proteins from whole fresh foods not dry powders and other fad diet gimmecks.
You can not beat Ionised Whey Protein Isolate. Any brand of this product (though I definatley prefer Musashi supplements) will have all the BCAA’s you’ll need, plus a low level of carbs. Just enough. I’ve used soy ones, and I hate to say it but the results just are not the same. Generally any Whey protein products are really good.
If you want a fantastic product that’s cheaper than WPI but 95% as good, look into Horley’s Protein Food. Well priced 3kg tubs, and the vanilla flavour is delicious. If you are not a Vegan then don’t sell yourself short by buying inferior product. No offense meant to Vegans, I am aware of (and respect) your beliefs. But in my experience, the results of WPI more than speak for themselves 
“Through strength, learn gentleness. Through gentleness, strength will prevail”