Content
Albumin is the most abundant protein in the body, being produced by the liver and performing various functions in the body, such as transporting nutrients, preventing swelling and strengthening the immune system. In food, egg whites are the main source of albumin, and can also be used to increase the amount of protein in the diet.
This protein can also be used as a supplement to help muscle recovery after intense physical activity and to promote blood circulation. For this, it is indicated that the albumin supplement is consumed upon waking up during the breakfast meal, after physical exercise or before bedtime, as it is absorbed more slowly, helping in the formation of muscles during the rest period.
However, due to its strong flavor, the ideal is to consume it together with milk, yogurt or citrus fruit juices, which have a strong flavor and disguise the taste of albumin.
What is albumin for?
Albumin is present in large quantities in the body, having several benefits, among them:
- Accelerate muscle recovery after training;
- Maintain muscles and promote muscle mass gain;
- Act as antioxidant;
- Transport nutrients in the blood;
- Strengthen the immune system;
- Act as anti-inflammatory;
- Improve blood circulation.
In addition to its use for athletes, albumin is also recommended for patients with inflammation in the abdomen, hemorrhagic shock, cirrhosis or who have undergone organ transplantation, according to medical advice.
Albumin is fattening?
As a protein supplement, albumin does not make you fat, but if taken in excess or out of a healthy and balanced diet or if physical activity is not performed on a regular basis, it can lead to weight gain by containing calories and stimulating the increase of muscles, being ideal that it is prescribed by a nutritionist.
Side effects and contraindications
Excessive consumption of albumin can cause problems such as gas, diarrhea and, in the most severe cases, kidney problems, because it can overload the kidneys and lead to changes in their function and, therefore, it is important that the consumption of albumin is done under nutritional guidance.
In addition, this supplement is contraindicated in cases of renal failure, hemodialysis, liver problems, pancreatitis and stroke.