Is it possible to take expired sports nutrition?

Shelf life of the protein after opening the package

The storage time of an open package is significantly reduced. It is recommended to leave the powder in this state in a dry and cool place. The pack must be well sealed. If the additive is in a jar, then tightly close the lid so that it does not disappear.

An open pack can be consumed within three weeks.

A month is the deadline. Long-term storage reduces the effectiveness and benefits of casein protein drink.

Interaction with oxygen and an environment with high humidity leads to the appearance of bacteria and harmful microorganisms. This can cause stomach illnesses.

How to store gainer

The safe period for using gainer depends on several factors:

• manufacturer
• gainer composition
• type of packaging
• storage conditions
• state of the pack (open or closed)

To prevent the expensive mixture from losing its properties or becoming a source of digestive problems, it is strongly recommended that you follow all storage rules indicated on the packaging. It is recommended to store the sealed bag or jar of powder in a cool, dry place, such as a kitchen wall cabinet or pantry.

In a sealed package, almost nothing bad can happen to a gainer, so you can safely use it, even if the expiration date is coming to an end.

Some even try to take expired gainer, which was opened only after the expiration date. Judging by the reviews of such extreme sports enthusiasts, the gainer in this case does not lose its properties and does not harm the body.

A gainer is an energy drink that is characterized by the effect of a sharp increase in the body’s energy potential immediately after consumption.

Unopened packages can be stored for up to 2 years if the instructions on the packaging are followed. If they were not observed (there was high humidity or damage to the jar), then the powder may crystallize, or it may even harbor bacteria and fungi. In this case, it is prohibited to use the product! If you have already opened the pack, its shelf life is reduced several times. Again, you need to look at the packaging for the exact date. In no case should it be exceeded, since open, unsealed packaging cannot guarantee that the powder is not contaminated or has not lost its properties. The started product should be stored covered in the refrigerator.

Shelf life of protein shake

Protein shake and dry powder, of course, have different shelf life.

The dissolved mixture must be drunk within 3-4 hours.

Manufacturers indicate that each serving should be taken immediately before use.

Inexperienced athletes and beginners try to deceive themselves by putting a cocktail mixed in a shaker in the refrigerator, thinking that the low temperature will prolong the freshness of the diluted mixture and retain all the beneficial substances. Cooling the prepared drink affects freshness, but increases it by only 30 minutes. As a result, if an athlete does not drink the mixture for 5 hours, the enzymes that make up the solution will destroy protein compounds.

It is easy to find out whether protein diluted with water has spoiled if the athlete has previously tried an effective fresh cocktail:

• the taste of the diluted protein mixture changes;
• after taking the solution, an unusual aftertaste remains in the mouth;
• An unpleasant odor appears from the oral cavity.

Diluted protein

The shelf life of diluted powder is minimal. Under normal conditions at room temperature, dry protein can stand for up to 4 hours without spoiling. Storing the product in the refrigerator will slightly extend the time of safe use by 30-60 minutes. It is advisable to drink the diluted powder immediately. The peculiarity of missing sports nutrition is the bitter, nasty taste, which can cause bad breath.

The liquid used to dilute the additive is of great importance. If you use milk or juice to prepare a cocktail, the safe consumption time is reduced to 1-2 hours.

Do you properly preserve and store your products?

Of course, this is very important because your health may suffer.

45.45%

No, what could happen besides diarrhea?

21.68%

We store it as it turns out, we don’t really think about how and what is right.

32.87%

What to do with expired protein

You need to know that an expired dietary supplement is devoid of nutrients. Therefore, there is no positive impact. Much worse - problems with the gastrointestinal tract may arise.

When drinking a drink whose safe use period has ended, you need to be prepared for undesirable consequences: flatulence, bloating, discomfort, pain, cramps.

To avoid unpleasant symptoms, it is recommended to dispose of products after the expiration date.

Prepared cocktail

The shelf life of a cocktail that has already been prepared is even shorter. In this case, it is better to take the protein within 3-4 hours. Many athletes put the cocktail in the refrigerator and believe that in this way they increase its life expectancy. But that's not true. At best, refrigeration will increase the storage period by half an hour, no more.

What happens if you don’t drink a cocktail on time? – The process of destruction of proteins by other components – enzymes, which are also in the cocktail, starts. If you waste time and don’t drink the finished cocktail 5-6 hours after preparation, it may turn out to be completely useless. It is not difficult to recognize a missing cocktail - its taste changes (it becomes unpleasant), and a nasty smell appears from the mouth.

What happens if you use a delay

It is believed that expired matrix protein does not cause any harm to the body. It is sold at a significantly reduced price, which creates increased demand. According to reviews on the forums, many inexperienced athletes buy it on sale, not wanting to understand that the expiration date has expired and it is dangerous for the body.

An expired additive can be compared to the most complex analogue of rotten meat or sour milk. Taking it overdue will lead to intestinal disorders. The most common are flatulence and diarrhea.

If the storage period stated by the manufacturer has expired and 1 year has passed since then, it is better not to use the additive.

Although reviews on forums say that no side effects are observed.

Six months have passed since lactomin 80 was opened. I drank an old cocktail and nothing happened to my stomach

But you should remember that jokes with health are bad, and such a drink can pose a real threat to the body and will definitely not make you stronger and more energetic.

Is it worth the risk?

Most athletes do not disdain expired products and calmly accept them. At the same time, there is an important recommendation - do not risk large portions. Whatever the delay, start with a small amount (for example, half the usual dosage). If the body tolerated the gainer normally, then you can increase the portion to the nominal dose and again evaluate the body’s reaction.

The main side effect of an expired gainer is indigestion, flatulence, lack of effect, unpleasant aftertaste, and so on. Speaking of taste. Often an expired product can become completely unbearable (severe bitterness appears), which is the main sign of product spoilage. In such a situation, it is better, of course, not to take risks. No matter how much you take, the result can be disastrous and end in the toilet (at best).

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About different types of protein

Whey Protein

Today it is the most in demand. Prepared on the basis of whey. The filtration process removes fats and other non-protein substances.

Whey drink quickly starts metabolism, reduces fat absorption, and supplies amino acids necessary for muscle building.

Depending on the amount of protein there is:

• concentrate, which consists of 89% protein, some fat and lactose;
• whey isolate contains up to 95% of the substance, almost no lactose and fat;
• whey hydrolyzate contains 99% of the substance.

The more protein in the composition, the higher the cost. Concentrate is the most popular product with a normal price and good effect. The Elite has the best value in this segment.

Characteristics of whey powder BSN Syntha 6:

• absorption occurs quickly, the drink can be taken before and after training;
• dissolves well and tastes good;
• high biological value;
• consists of a large number of amino acids.

Some athletes use it at night and as a snack between meals.

The best concentrates include the following brands:

• Optimum Nutrition 100% ON Whey Gold Standard (Optimum Nutrition),
• Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Whey Protein,
• SAN 100% Pure Titanium Whey,
• F85 Protein.

There are multicomponent innovative mixtures, including:

• Multiprotein Energy pro (Energy),
• hy pro 85,
• mutant,
• ostrovit (Ostrovit),
• power system
• Rule One Proteins,
• San.

Hydrolysates

It can be a hydrolyzate of whey or beef protein. The product is a high-quality source of protein, so the cost is high. The composition contains peptides that are characterized by a very high absorption rate and provide an anabolic effect. Compared to concentrate, hydrolyzate has a better effect on the digestive system. Its main advantage is a high degree of cleansing of the body.

This protein solution will appeal to those who want to quickly restore strength after a workout, replenish glycogen reserves, and gain muscle mass in a short time. Use before sports and after intense exercise.

The best hydrolysates:

• Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro Whey,
• BioTech Hydro Whey Zero,
• maxler (Maxler).

Milk protein

The product decomposes at a rate of 4.5 g/hour. It has a budget price, excellent composition with amino acids. But they contain lactate. The product is not absorbed in every body, so there is a high probability of deterioration of intestinal functions.

Protein in the form of egg powder

These products are as close to the ideal composition as possible. It contains almost the entire complex of amino acids. The nutritional value of the powder is the highest.

Egg product in dissolved form has 2 disadvantages: it is expensive and gives the possibility of side effects - constipation, flatulence and other gastrointestinal disorders. According to this criterion, it is inferior to whey drink.

The product works for 3-5 hours. Use in the morning, after training. It is especially recommended for people with intolerance to dairy products.

Famous and popular products:

• Egg Protein from Optimum Nutrition,
• Egg White Protein from Body First.

Isolate

This is a combination of proteins that is obtained from whey. The powder does not contain non-amino acid substances, as it has undergone maximum purification. There is almost no lactose, its concentration is no more than 1%. Absorption occurs quickly and delivers nutritional compounds to the body. Indispensable for people with milk sugar intolerance, during dieting, drying the body.

The best brands of this sports nutrition include:

• Iso-100 from Dymatize;
• VPLab Platinum Whey;
• Iso Sensation from Ultimate Nutrition;
• Zero Carb by VPX;
• Varcil R2;
• syntrax Matrix (Matrix).

Soybean powder

The supplement is absorbed at a rate of 4 grams per hour. Some experts consider it inferior. But if you combine it with grain products, the effect will not be long in coming. Soy protein is loved by vegetarians and people who are lactose intolerant. The solution helps lower cholesterol levels, but is less effective than other supplements.

Famous brands:

• 100% Soy Protein from Optimum Nutrition;
• Soy Protein 80+ from Weider, mass effect.

Types of additives

Manufacturers offer the following types of protein sports supplements:

• Milk proteins. Essentially, it is milk powder, free of fat and with added vitamins. The most popular dairy protein is whey protein. It is easily digestible and contains a minimal amount of lactose.
• Egg whites. This type is inferior to dairy products in demand, although it has an advantage in the speed of absorption. However, it has a specific taste. The inherent bitterness of egg whites is not to everyone's taste.
• Protein based on soy protein. Vegetarians choose it. Also, due to its zero fat content, it is recommended during the so-called drying period.

Supplements differ in both the time of absorption and the time of application.

The admission rules are simple. The dry portion should be diluted with any liquid: water, milk or juice, and drunk. Make sure that the liquid is not hot, as the protein may curdle. The daily portion is determined individually. Recommendations and instructions for using proteins are indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging. Where, by the way, is it indicated and how long this product is stored.

Drinking a protein shake made from diluted powder is both cheaper and easier than eating a large piece of meat.

Summing up the issue of expired sports nutrition

Expired sports nutrition does not have to be thrown away immediately. Most products, when stored under proper storage conditions, have the same effectiveness. That is why the categories of discounted goods, which feature goods that are approaching or have already expired, are becoming increasingly relevant.

Like any product, sports nutrition has an expiration date. It seems logical - the expiration date has expired, you should throw away the product so as not to get poisoned. However, the higher the price, the more unfortunate it is to throw away a spoiled product. Imagine how annoying it is to throw away expensive sports nutrition, simply because it was not taken on time. What should you do in such a situation? Is it possible to drink expired protein, or will it only cause harm?

Looking at the difficult economic situation, the topic of taking expired sports nutrition comes up quite often on forums and in discussions. Many athletes note that if the product is not very expired, then you can safely use it.

In order not to get completely confused, it is worth making a rating of the risk group of individual sports nutrition products:

• The first group is perishable products. This includes diluted sports mixtures (not liquid forms of sports nutrition, but ready-to-use, diluted mixtures). They need to be drunk immediately, they cannot be stored, so if you do not drink them immediately, or within a few hours, they will spoil and lose their effectiveness. In protein diluted in water or milk, harmful microorganisms begin to multiply very quickly, so even if you put the mixture in the refrigerator, you should store it for no more than 24 hours.
• The second group is the storage of liquid, powder, tablet and capsule forms of sports nutrition. The main condition for their storage is a dark, dry place, not too cold and not too hot (within +5 - +23).
• The third group is the storage of vitamins and mineral complexes. They should be stored under the same conditions as unopened sports nutrition, but their shelf life is much longer, so they are not subject to the same principles that apply to expired sports nutrition products.

It is worth remembering that the predominant share of sports nutrition, the same proteins, is produced on the basis of protein - the main building material of the body. Protein powder is a kind of dehydrated, concentrated form of milk or whey. All natural foods have expiration dates, so no matter how well you store them, when the expiration date comes, they will begin to spoil.

Storage rules at home

Inexperienced “users” often don’t even realize how difficult protein can be to store, even if the package is unopened.

After all, protein is sensitive to a number of physical influences. And they, in turn, can negatively affect the properties of the product.

Basically, squirrels are afraid of high temperatures.

When a protein is heated to 70°C, it denatures—the destruction of its molecular structure. Then the additive loses its biological properties.

By the way, therefore, diluting protein powder with hot liquid (water or milk) is strictly prohibited.

As for storage at home, the sealed pack is placed in a cool, dry place, away from household heat sources - a radiator or a stove.

It is also not recommended to store protein on a windowsill to avoid direct sunlight.