Is protein only good for gaining muscle mass?

Protein is certainly one of the most widely used sports supplements today. But contrary to what many people still think, whey protein or vegan protein aren't just for increasing muscle mass. Nor is it just for those who are regulars at the gym.

GoldNutrition proteins are developed with the highest standards of quality to be a delicious supplement that will help you achieve your goals.

Find out all about our proteins and what they can do for your health and sports performance, find 5 wonderful recipes that you won't want to miss and 10 Myths about Protein that we uncover on this page.

  • Protein helps in the hypertrophy process by providing essential amino acids that stimulate muscle protein synthesis, promoting a positive protein balance and increasing insulin levels in the blood.

  • Protein can help with weight loss by increasing energy expenditure, promoting satiety, preserving muscle mass and controlling blood sugar.

  • Protein helps muscle recovery after exercise by providing essential amino acids, reducing muscle catabolism, promoting muscle protein synthesis, reducing late muscle soreness and inflammation, as well as increasing glutamine levels to improve immune function.

  • How is Whey Protein produced?

  • Discover GoldNutrition's New Protein Isolate

  • Discover the True Power of Plant Protein

DISCOVER OUR PROTEINS AND DELICIOUS FLAVORS

GoldNutrition protein powder is a practical and tasty way to add high-quality protein to your daily diet. Ideal for supporting muscle recovery, increasing satiety and promoting general health, our proteins offer essential benefits for athletes and non-athletes alike.

GoldNutrition's Muscle Recovery and Mass Gainer 2.0 supplements combine high-quality protein with key ingredients to optimize muscle recovery and promote lean mass retention. Ideal for those looking to accelerate post-workout regeneration and support muscle gain effectively.

GoldNutrition trusts Optipep whey protein

One of the secrets behind the quality of GoldNutrition products is the choice of whey protein from Optipep as an ingredient in products such as Total Hydro Whey or the bars Low Sugar Covered. This raw material is carefully selected for its exceptional purity and bioavailability.

Optipep whey is highly digestible and quickly absorbed by the body, providing essential amino acids efficiently. This promotes muscle recovery and development, making them ideal products for athletes and fitness enthusiasts in search of superior performance.

10 MYTHS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PROTEIN

Is protein only for those who train and want muscles?

Is protein only for those who train and want muscles?

Myth: Only athletes and people who want to gain muscle mass need protein supplements.

Answer

Protein is essential for everyone, not just those who train. It plays crucial roles in tissue repair, the production of enzymes and hormones, and the immune system. Anyone can benefit from an adequate protein intake, regardless of their goals.

Is taking too much protein bad for your kidneys?

Is taking too much protein bad for your kidneys?

Myth: High protein intake causes kidney damage.

Answer

For healthy people, there is no evidence that a high-protein diet causes kidney damage. High protein consumption can be safe, as long as it is balanced with adequate water intake. People with kidney problems should follow their doctor's advice.

When is the best time to consume protein?

When is the best time to consume protein?

Myth: The time you take your protein is irrelevant.

Answer

The timing of protein intake can influence results, especially for athletes. Consuming protein at various meals throughout the day helps to keep protein synthesis active. Post-workout consumption is important, but ensuring intake throughout the day is equally essential.

Do protein shakes make muscles grow uncontrollably?

Do protein shakes make muscles grow uncontrollably?

Myth: If I drink protein shakes, I'll gain too much muscle.

Answer

Protein shakes provide essential amino acids for muscle recovery and growth, but mass gain depends on training, genetics and overall diet. Without proper training, protein consumption alone won't cause an exaggerated increase in muscle.

Are all proteins the same?

Are all proteins the same?

Myth: Any type of protein has the same effect on the body.

Answer

Not all proteins are the same. Animal proteins, such as whey, are complete in essential amino acids, while some plant proteins may be deficient in certain amino acids. However, combinations of plant proteins can offer all the necessary amino acids.

Do I need to eat protein straight after training?

Do I need to eat protein straight after training?

Myth: Protein needs to be consumed immediately after training to be effective.

The answer

Although consuming protein post-workout is beneficial, the "anabolic window" is not as short as once believed. Consuming protein in the hours after training or throughout the day can also be effective. The important thing is to achieve adequate daily protein intake.

Can protein shakes replace meals?

Can protein shakes replace meals?

Myth: Drinking a protein shake is the same as eating a full meal.

Answer

Although protein shakes are convenient for increasing protein intake, they are not a substitute for full meals, which should provide a balanced combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Use shakes as a complement, not a substitute.

Is vegetable protein inferior to animal protein?

Is vegetable protein inferior to animal protein?

Myth: Plant protein is less effective than animal protein for gaining muscle mass.

Answer

Plant protein can be just as effective as animal protein for muscle gain, as long as sources are combined to obtain all the essential amino acids. Mixing different plant sources, such as peas and rice, can ensure a complete amino acid profile.

Can consuming too much protein overload the liver?

Can consuming too much protein overload the liver?

Myth: Excess protein causes liver problems and overloads the liver.

Answer

For healthy individuals, consuming protein in moderate to high quantities does not cause liver overload. The liver metabolizes proteins efficiently. However, people with liver problems should consult a doctor before increasing their protein intake.

Do protein shakes cause weight gain?

Do protein shakes cause weight gain?

Myth: Drinking protein shakes will make you gain weight.

Answer

Weight gain occurs when total calorie intake exceeds daily energy expenditure, not by taking protein shakes per se. Protein shakes, especially low-calorie versions without added sugars, can help control weight or even aid fat loss.

5 DELICIOUS PROTEIN RECIPES TO TRY

Banana and Peanut Butter Protein Shake

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop Total Whey or V Protein (vanilla or neutral flavor)
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 tablespoon of peanut butter
  • 250 ml vegetable drink (or low-fat milk for the Total Whey version)
  • Ice (optional)

Directions:

  1. Place all the ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Serve immediately.

Total time: 5 minutes

Nutritional information (per serving):

Nutrient Total Whey V Protein

Calories

 290 kcal 310 kcal

Proteins

 28 g 25 g

Hydrates

 35 g 37 g

Fats

 8 g 9 g

Chocolate Protein Ice Cream

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop Total Whey or V Protein (chocolate flavor)
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 100 ml vegetable drink (or low-fat milk)
  • 1 tablespoon of honey or agave

Directions:

  1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor.
  2. Blend until creamy.
  3. Place in the freezer for 1-2 hours to solidify.
  4. Serve in bowls.

Total time: 10 minutes (plus 1-2 hours freezing)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient Total Whey V Protein

Calories

 260 kcal 280 kcal

Proteins

 25 g 22 g

Hydrates

 28 g 30 g

Fats

 5 g 6 g

Oatmeal Protein Pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop of Total Whey or V Protein (vanilla flavor)
  • 1 egg (or 1 tablespoon of linseed with 3 tablespoons of water for the V Protein version)
  • 40 g oat flakes
  • 100 ml vegetable drink (or low-fat milk)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

  1. Mix all the ingredients in a blender until you get a homogeneous dough.
  2. Heat a non-stick frying pan and cook small portions of the batter until golden on both sides.
  3. Serve with toppings to taste (fruit, honey, etc.).

Total time: 15 minutes

Nutritional information (per serving):

Nutrient Total Whey V Protein

Calories

 320 kcal 330 kcal

Proteins

 30 g 26 g

Hydrates

 35 g 37 g

Fats

 7 g 8 g

Almond Protein Muffins

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop Total Whey or V Protein (vanilla flavor)
  • 2 eggs (or egg substitute for the vegan version)
  • 60 g almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 50 ml vegetable drink
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C and prepare a muffin tin with paper or non-stick spray.
  2. Mix all the ingredients together until you have a smooth batter.
  3. Divide the batter into the muffin tins and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Allow to cool before serving.

Total time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (yields 6 per muffin):

Nutrient Total Whey V Protein

Calories

 160 kcal 170 kcal

Proteins

 12 g 10 g

Hydrates

 8 g 9 g

Fats

 9 g 10 g

Protein cheesecake in a glass

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop of Total Whey or V Protein (vanilla or neutral flavor)
  • 100 g Greek yogurt (or vegetable yogurt for the vegan version)
  • 50 g light cream cheese (or vegan version)
  • 50 g unsweetened granola
  • 1 tablespoon of honey or agave syrup
  • Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, etc.) to decorate

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, cream cheese and protein until smooth.
  2. Place a layer of granola in the bottom of a glass.
  3. Add a layer of protein cream on top.
  4. Repeat the layers and top with fresh fruit to taste.
  5. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.

Total time: 10 minutes (plus 1-2 hours in the fridge)

Nutritional Information (per cup):

Nutrient Total Whey V Protein

Calories

 260 kcal 270 kcal

Proteins

 25 g 23 g

Hydrates

 24 g 26 g

Fats

 7 g 8 g