STORM Science
Why STORM?
What’s Behind THE BLAST THAT LASTS!
The Storm Bar is the first, real post-workout bar that is scientifically formulated to:
- Enhance protein absorption with our proprietary MR30 enzyme system
- Increase protein utilization and extend the anabolic window by delivering 26grams of protein in a unique, optimal blend of whey, casein and soy
Click on the links below to explore how the STORM Bar supports protein absorption and utilization. We also provide a little background on protein metabolism as well, just in case you’re curious!
- How Storm Increases Protein Absorption
- How Storm Increases Protein Utilization
- Basics of Protein Metabolism
What Can Be Done To Increase Protein Absorption?
Ensure Efficient Digestion
The only way to utilize the protein you ingest after an intense workout is if protein is broken down into amino acids, (di- and tri-peptides will work too), as the body will not absorb large peptides or proteins. There are several ways to support the breakdown of proteins into their component amino acids and small peptides – one notable way is to support the enzymatic activity in the stomach and small intestine. An innovative approach to accomplishing this is by delivering a probiotic that can thrive in the harsh environment of the GI tract that, as a normal by-product of its metabolism, actually secretes proteolytic enzymes that may help break down surrounding proteins. By combining this unique probiotic with an additional natural enzyme (papain) in a food, you may improve the potential for the proteins to be broken down in a more expedient or thorough way than without this enzyme support. This means more amino acids may be available for absorption and utilization.
What Can Be Done to Increase Protein Utilization?
Consume Fast & Slow Acting Proteins
Clinical trials have demonstrated that various proteins are absorbed at different rates, and that by consuming both fast AND slow proteins after intense exercise, you can actually extend your anabolic window – the physiologically active period within which muscles can be repaired and increased. It is recommended that protein be consumed within 30 minutes of intense exercise, as this is the period when muscle recovery begins. Whey protein is an excellent source to meet this ‘immediate’ need as it is rapidly digested and absorbed. However, this is not the whole story. Muscles continue their repair long after this initial 30 minute period, and as such, require amino acids to be delivered over a prolonged period of time. Soy protein is a great intermediate source of protein to aid in muscle repair and growth, as the body digests and absorbs this protein at a more moderate speed. Casein protein is an excellent source to meet the longer-term protein needs of muscles as it is digested and absorbed more slowly than even soy, meaning the amino acids will be delivered to the muscles in a delayed fashion. As one can imagine, it is ideal to supply the muscles with amino acids throughout the repair and growth period, and by consuming a triple blend of proteins that offer varying speeds of digestion and absorption (fast and slow proteins), you can more closely match your muscle’s anabolic needs and maximize the repair and growth you achieve from your intense workout!
Boirie, Y., M. Dangin, P. Gachon, M. Vasson, J. Maubois, and B. Beaufrere (1997). Slow and fast dietary proteins differently modulate postprandial protein accretion. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA 94: 14930-14935.
Bos, C., C. C. Metges, C. Gaudichon, K. J. Petzke, M. E. Pueyo, C. Morens, J. Everwand, R. Benamouzig, and D. Tomé (2003). Postprandial kinetics of dietary amino acids are the main determinant of their metabolism after soy or milk protein ingestion in humans. Journal of Nutrition 133: 1308-1315.
Farnfield, MM, C Trenerry, KA Carey, D Cameron-Smith (2008). Plasma amino acid response after ingestion of different whey protein fractions. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition: 1-11.
Here we provide a little background on protein metabolism. Efficient protein utilization relies heavily on efficient protein digestion and absorption. We will break our science down into a few topics including the process of digestion, factors that impact protein absorption, and scientifically advanced ingredient blends that can support efficient protein digestion, absorption AND utilization!
Process of Protein Digestion
When you eat any food containing protein, digestion begins as soon as you take a bite and continues through the small intestine. There are several steps your body takes to digest the protein that you eat and convert it to amino acids that are used by many different systems in the body (muscular, immune, skeletal, etc). The first step of digestion happens in the mouth, when chewing begins to physically break down the proteins. Once you swallow the protein, it encounters chemical breakdown by a host of enzymes (pepsinogen in the stomach, trypsin in the small intestine), hydrochloric acid and further physical manipulation by peristalsis (the contraction of digestive muscles).Process of Protein Absorption
Once protein is broken down into its basic components, amino acids, they are ready to be absorbed by villi in the small intestine, and carried through the blood to a variety of destinations (muscles, lymph nodes, organs, etc).Factors That Impact Protein Absorption
Numerous factors influence the speed in which enzymes can act on protein in the GI tract and make amino acids available for absorption. These factors include the concentration of the enzyme, (how much of it is present); the amount of protein needing digestion; the acidity of the food and of the stomach; the temperature of the food; time; and the presence of any digestion inhibitors, such as antacids.