Protein supplementation may be beneficial for muscle
recovery, after athletic activities such as swimming. A growing teenager will
also require more protein to fuel his workouts.
Examples of Sources of Protein Powders
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Whey
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A water-soluble complete protein source containing all 9
essential amino acids. Made from milk and contains lactose, a milk sugar that
some people have difficulty digesting.
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Soy
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Preferred choice for vegans.
Taste may be considered unpleasant. Water-solubility is less than whey
protein.
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Casein
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Digested and absorbed much slower than whey. Appears to be
more effective than soy protein but not as effective as whey protein, at
increasing muscle protein synthesis and strength.
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Egg
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Typically made from egg whites rather than whole eggs but
serves as a complete protein source like whey. Not suitable for those with
egg allergies. Considered second only to whey protein as the highest source
of leucine, the most important BCAA for muscle health.
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Brown Rice
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Generally considered inferior to whey protein for muscle
building. Has insufficient lysine to be considered a complete protein source.
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Mixed plant
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A blend of plant sources to provide complete protein with
all the essential amino acids. Adding digestive enzymes lead to a faster
appearance of amino acids in the blood that make it comparable to whey
protein.
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BCAA: Branched chain amino
acids which promote muscle growth and recovery following resistance and endurance
exercise
Balance Naturals Plant
Protein is plant-based, containing pea protein isolate made from golden peas
sourced from North America, blended with chia protein powder, sacha inchi
powder and organic brown rice protein concentrate. It is a mixed plant protein
powder, with added essential BCAAs, glutamine and digestive enzymes. It is an
alternative protein source for those with dairy and soy intolerances and is
also gluten-free with no artificial flavours, preservatives or sweeteners.
Do note that this product should not be used as a sole
source of nutrition. It is best taken in conjunction with a nutritious diet and
an appropriate physical training or exercise programme.
Long Term Safety of
Protein Powders
Safety data on protein powders is limited. There have been individual cases of acute liver
injury and jaundice following dietary supplement usage which resolved after
discontinuation of the supplements. There
is however no scientific evidence currently to conclude whether the liver will
be stressed through metabolizing greater protein intakes. There is some
evidence that long term consumption of too much protein can lead to an
increased risk of osteoporosis and
worsening of any existing kidney
problems. The Singapore Health Promotion Board recommends a daily dietary
allowance of 80g protein for 16 to 18 year old boys and 68g protein for 18-30
year old males. Excessive protein can also put additional stress on the kidneys
and contribute to dehydration.
To avoid these risks, you may choose to introduce high-protein foods into his diet instead in
the form of snacks or adding them directly to normal meals to enhance the
protein content.
Some protein-rich food options include:
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Red meat, such
as beef, lamb and pork
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Poultry, such as chicken, duck and turkey
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Eggs
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Dairy,
such as milk, yoghurt and cheese
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Beans
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Tofu
As the autistic palate is special, supplements do provide a
way for you to enhance your teen’s diet without the stress of introducing
foods and textures that he may not easily tolerate. ASD children who are picky
eaters are potentially at risk of nutritional deficiencies such as zinc,
calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, amino acid, vitamin
B12, and folic acid deficiency. Some studies have shown that a gluten-free,
casein-free diet may be beneficial for ASD.
For more information on diet and autism, you may wish to
visit the website below.
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/diet-and-autism#3
For any supplement product, be sure to follow the
specific dosing instructions and do not exceed the maximum dosage stated on the
product label.
