The Biological Value: Efficient Turnover of Dietary Proteins

Proteins: Building materials of life

Protein, also known as egg white, is a biological molecule with multiple functions. The term proteins are derived from the Greek protos: "first", because proteins are important basic elements of our body. Above all, we need protein as a building material. Only with proteins do we form and maintain cells and tissues, skin and organs, skeleton and muscle strength. Proteins also form signalling substances such as enzymes, hormones, antibodies, coagulation factors and transport proteins.

Unlike carbohydrates and non-essential fatty acids, proteins cannot be replaced by other nutrients. Protein deficiency threatens, among other things, the onset of brittle bones and a weak immune system. Proteins, on the other hand, serve as a limited energy source. Only in the case of prolonged calorie deficiency or intense endurance exercise does the body fall back on muscle protein.

Amino acids: The protein building blocks

Proteins that we ingest with food are broken down in the digestive tract into their smallest components, so-called amino acids. The body can only absorb these compounds through the blood and use them again to build up the required protein structures.

In total, there are 21 amino acids that can be assembled into proteins in various combinations. Of these, 9 are essential for humans, i.e. they must be ingested with food and cannot be produced by the body itself. Only when enough of these essential amino acids are present can the body efficiently convert dietary protein into body protein.

Not all proteins are the same

We now know that proteins are made up of different amino acids. The number and combination of amino acids in protein sources such as meat or legumes determine how well the protein can be used in the body. Central to this is the content of essential amino acids, which also determines the biological value.

Foods that directly provide all 9 essential amino acids are, for example, beef or soya beans. Almased also fulfils the daily requirement of all essential amino acids, in just one shake! However, because the amino acid composition in most foods varies greatly, the best strategy for optimal protein intake is a balanced and varied diet.

The Almased multi-component protein

For optimal protein supply, Almased combines high-quality soya protein with valuable skimmed milk yogurt. This ensures a very high biological value of 158.

Soya is a protein powerhouse and – measured by its own natural protein content – is the vegetable protein source with the highest biological value. The small bean brings all the amino acids from which our body forms proteins. Thanks to its short-chain molecular structure, soya protein can also be easily absorbed by the body.

Skimmed milk yogurt is the perfect complement as an animal protein source and supplements Almased's amino acid profile. In addition, yogurt contains high quantities of calcium, which support normal muscle function in addition to building muscle.

Almased provides an optimal nutrient ratio

It is not only the high biological value that ensures that Almased is ideal as a protein shake for athletes or as a meal replacement for weight loss. In addition to the main ingredients soy and skimmed milk yogurt, the natural honey present in Almased also plays a decisive role.

Due to the carbohydrates in honey, the glycogen stores can be quickly replenished after exercise, whereas in everyday life, the special formula ensures a precisely coordinated supply of nutrients at all times.

The vitamins and minerals contained in Almased complement this effect and provide an additional nutrient boost, all so you can start the day full of energy!