Have you ever wondered why so many gym-goers use protein powder?
While most take the supplement to gain muscle mass, protein powder benefits go way beyond just that. Every cell in our bodies consists of protein, which means that it is a building block of our bodies.
Being the building block, it gets easy to say that proper protein intake is essential for the general upkeep of our bodies.
Even when your focus is on achieving your physique goals, protein supplements can be used for muscle building, muscle retention, weight loss (when added with certain ingredients), or just as a part of your daily nutrition.
The world of protein powders is much more complex than what it seems on the surface. Go to any supplement store, and you’ll surely see a whole shelf of protein powders – whey, isolate, casein, plant, etc. This may cause a bit of confusion since you don’t know which option to go for.
In fact, that’s probably the reason why you ended up here!
So, let’s clear the air on the subject!
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into protein powders, starting with what they are, their benefits, and how they can help you achieve your fitness goals. Additionally, we’ll also present some of our top choices for all kinds of types of protein powders, ensuring you get the best possible choice!
WHAT IS A PROTEIN POWDER?
For those of you still in the unknown about it, protein powders are a food supplement that helps you meet your daily protein needs. These supplements usually come in a powdered form of protein extracted from animal or plant sources.
Most of these supplements are animal-based (whey, casein, beef, and egg are the most common), but since vegan and vegetarian diets have garnered quite a lot of popularity in recent years, a vast number of plant-based protein powders are available on the market.
WHO CAN CONSUME PROTEIN POWDER?
Everybody can use protein powders. As previously mentioned, gym-goers use the supplement to hit their daily protein targets to gain mass and lean muscle. In addition, those who are dieting to improve their body composition will benefit from consuming more protein each day.
Now consuming the right amount of protein based on your body weight is both expensive and cumbersome – making protein powders a valuable tool to hit this important macronutrient target.
HOW MUCH PROTEIN SHOULD YOU CONSUME?
Since protein is the most prominent component in our bodies, we must consume it regularly as part of our diet. This is generally an easy task for people who don’t work out, as the average American diet is generally high enough in protein. This is why, individuals who consume the American diet don’t generally end up being deficient in protein.
Even if you’re moderately active, you can get enough through whole foods including eggs, tuna, or poultry in your diet, along with the proteins found in vegetables and rice.
But when you start training for muscle growth and bodybuilding, you start looking at 1g per pound of bodyweight as the required amount to see results, and suddenly a few cans of tuna no longer do the trick. Therefore, the use of high-quality protein supplements is practically essential.
HOW MANY TYPES OF PROTEIN POWDERS ARE THERE?
As mentioned earlier, there are a few protein types available for you. Some of them come from plants, while others come from animal sources. Still, every beginner should know that there are four main protein types. They are:
1. WHEY PROTEIN
This is probably the most common type of protein you will find in the market. This complete protein contains all the essential amino acids needed for stimulating muscle protein synthesis and also has a higher proportion of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). In addition, whey protein is quickly and easily broken down into amino acids for a faster absorption rate through the intestines and into the bloodstream. The end result? A massive amino acid infusion that reaches the muscles quickly.
Of all proteins, whey also has the highest concentration of leucine. Leucine is the primary amino acid that activates protein synthesis. As a result, taking whey can help promote muscle protein synthesis better than any other protein source. From an essential amino acid perspective, whey is 43% EAAs – the most of any protein. It’s quite simply unmatched as a protein source for athletes.
2. EGG PROTEIN
This protein is made from egg whites (without the yolks). This was a very popular and healthy option in the 1990s because of the healthy compounds found in egg whites – however, since the rise of whey protein, quality egg protein powders are few and far between.
In addition, most available egg protein powders don’t have the flavor or consistency of modern whey or casein proteins. Look for egg proteins to be best used in blends that often feature whey and casein.
3. PLANT PROTEIN
For those of you strictly abiding by the vegan lifestyle, this is a great option. The protein that comes from plant sources includes pumpkin, soy, hemp, peas, and rice protein. Pea protein in particular has solid amounts of essential amino acids, specifically, leucine, isoleucine, and valine – making it one of the best, if not the best non-animal-based choice for protein supplements.
4. CASEIN PROTEIN
This type of protein also comes from milk. Casein is composed of molecules called micelles that form a bolus or a “clot” in the stomach when consumed. That makes them digest very slowly over a period of several hours – supplying the body with amino acids, maintaining a positive nitrogen balance and keeping the body from breaking down muscle.
From a nutritional and amino acid perspective, Casein is a complete protein that is made up of 34% essential amino acids. This is higher than egg protein but is behind the levels in whey protein and contains less leucine than whey.
BEST PROTEIN POWDERS FOR BEGINNERS
If you’re a beginner, the best protein powder is the one that you’ll actually use consistently. Protein is key for building muscle so fueling your gains with at least 1g per pound of body weight each day is key.
For many of you, getting this amount of protein from whole foods is very hard – which is where protein powders are extremely useful.
Protein, regardless of its source, can provide building blocks for the growth, repair, and general function of muscle and connective tissue. However, if you’re looking to get the best muscle-building results, when you’re choosing protein, the source becomes increasingly important – especially when it comes to protein supplements.
Some protein powders are strictly protein, while others can contain additional ingredients to support weight loss and muscle gain – the latter when combined with carbohydrates in the form of weight gainers helps you not just hit your protein targets each day, but also fuel a hardcore workout plan with the extra total calories to put on mass.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top protein supplements by goal:
PROTEIN POWDERS FOR WEIGHT LOSS
The first one is a protein powder designed for those who want to build lean muscle and lose weight. If you are a beginner and are looking to build lean muscle and shed a little bit of weight, this is the perfect choice for you.
1. NITRO-TECH RIPPED
When it’s time to get shredded – there’s only one protein up for the task: Nitro-Tech Ripped!
This highly customized take on our original ground-breaking whey protein formula combines 30g of quality whey, MCTs and L-carnitine with C. canephora robusta — a scientifically tested weight loss ingredient that has been scientifically researched and backed by two human studies. Not rat and chicken studies – but actual gold-standard human research.
It’s the ultimate protein and weight loss formula to support you in your quest to get and stay lean.
PROTEIN POWDERS FOR MUSCLE GAIN
The second category is for all of you who wish to create a stronger and more muscular body. Here are the best protein powder options for you.
2. NITRO-TECH
Need to add a few pounds of muscle or another plate on your bench press? Go with the tried-and-true combination of whey and creatine. These supplements have delivered incredible size and strength gains for years and are the most researched ingredients available.
Getting both is now easy and convenient because of NitroTech. Each scoop delivers a full 30g of whey protein per scoop and combines that with 3g of pure HPLC-tested Creatine Monohydrate. It’s a brilliantly simple, clean formula that combines the two top muscle and strength-building ingredients into one convenient and delicious protein shake.
3. NITRO TECH 100% WHEY GOLD
The name says it all for this one – it is the perfect 100% whey gold powder. This ultra-pure whey formula means that you will get some incredible results. Nitro-Tech 100% Whey Gold serves up 24g of ultra-premium whey protein that supplies 5.5g of BCAAs and 4g of glutamine and precursor – giving you an easy way to add extra quality protein to your diet without adding a lot of extra fat and calories.
4. 100% MASS GAINER
Searching for the best protein powder for muscle gain will probably lead you to this result – as it is the perfect addition to your fitness lifestyle. It can promote quicker muscle recovery, and it can improve your performance and strength. You get 60 g of protein, plenty of carbs, and overall calories.
Serving is easy – you should drink 1 serving daily (that is six scoops with 2 cups of cold water). You can increase the dosage to two servings if you want to maximize your results. Take a look at the label and the supplement facts for more information.
5. MASS-TECH ELITE
Are you looking for a way to get a little more creatine from your protein powder to enhance your results? The Mass-Tech Elite might be just what you need. The enhanced formula gives some amazing results in both muscle and strength. All of that is possible thanks to the 10g of creatine.
This may well provide you with that extra little push you need to separate yourself from the crowd. The muscle mass has pushed science to its limits, giving you the best (cutting-edge) results.
Do you want your passion to meet your potential? Add Mass Tech Elite to your regular exercise routine. You should consume 1 serving a day (which equals 5 scoops) with water or skim milk. You should consume this either in the morning, between meals, or even post-workout.
6. GRASS-FED 100% WHEY PROTEIN
The clean fuel that will light up your day! The Grass-fed 100% Whey Protein is the ultimate protein powder to add to your diet. It contains no artificial growth hormones, and it is gluten-free! Also, it does not contain any artificial colors or flavors – making it the clear choice for some lean results!
Consume this between meals or before and after working out. All you need to do is mix one or two scoops of it with 6-12 oz of cold water, skim milk, or one of your favorite beverages. You can now get the most out of your workout easily! Read the entire label to discover how to use it.
7. MASS-TECH EXTREME 2000
Adding a mass gainer into your everyday life is probably the best way you will get the most out of your results. Achieving your fitness goals (and doing it fast) can be a job well done with the help of this supplement. Thanks to the ingredients found in this dietary supplement, you can boost your strength, you can enhance your recovery process, and increase muscle mass.
This is one of the most powerful mass gainers you will come across – so use it to your advantage. To consume it, add 1 ⁄ 2 servings (three scoops) to 8-10 oz of water or skim milk. You should consume it twice a day. For more information, look at the site supplement facts and FAQs.
8. PLANT PROTEIN
Are you always striving for perfection during your workouts? Do you want to see some optimal results but get there with a plant-based diet? This dietary supplement has got you covered. Due to its incredible formula, it can enhance your recovery and can provide you with pure performance.
If you are an active individual who lives a healthy life (and wants to keep doing that), then this supplement is the missing piece of your fitness puzzle. Whether you are vegan or a vegetarian, give this dietary supplement a chance to improve you.
9. ISO WHEY CLEAR
Lifting heavy doesn’t mean you still need to drink heavy shakes. The final one on the list for today is a clear breakthrough in the field of protein powders. Get refreshed with Iso Whey Clear; our light, delicious, whey isolate alternative to regular protein shakes.
Iso Whey Clear comes in delicious fruit flavors that deliver a refreshing taste with 22g of whey protein and superior amino absorption. This is the perfect thing for those looking for a clean and light way to get their daily protein worth. It can provide you with an excellent absorption rate and boost your fitness journey.
Use a serving of it (1 scoop) with 12 oz of water after you are done working out or at any time of the day when you feel like you need a little boost.
WHICH PROTEIN POWDER ARE YOU PICKING TODAY?
Now that you know how to get the most out of your protein powders, consider this your ultimate guide to health! And remember one last thing – being healthy is not a trend, but rather a lifestyle.
