Power Up With Protein Powder
Protein powders are popular among recreational exercisers, body builders, dieters and non-dieters alike. The increased popularity of protein powder has sparked the interest of many.
Protein powder has allowed people an easy convenient way to add protein to their meals and snacks. However, protein powder is not required since most of our daily protein needs can be met by consuming protein rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, soy and legumes.
Breaking it down
With so many different types of protein powders available it’s important to understand each kind so you can make the best choice.
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Whey: the most common type of dairy based protein powder. It’s considered a complete protein source, easy to digest (if you are NOT lactose intolerant or have a milk allergy) and broken down faster than any other protein source, making it very effective for building and maintaining muscle mass.
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Soy-based: The body can utilize soy protein almost equal to that of whey protein. Soy protein is available in isolate or concentrate; isolate has a higher concentration of protein and a better choice when selecting a soy-based protein powder.
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Plant–based: are the perfect powder for individuals who are vegetarian or vegan and choose to avoid dairy, egg or soy based protein powder. They are a nice alternative, but unfortunately do not include all of the essential amino acids therefore considered an incomplete protein.
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Pea: Pea protein is easily digested and is part of the legume family.
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Hemp: made from hemp seeds and touted as a great source of heart-healthy omega 3 fats and fiber.
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Brown rice: made from the brown rice grain and great for individuals following a gluten-free diet.
What many protein powders have in common is their laundry list of added ingredients from sweeteners, flavorings and additives. Read your ingredient list to find out what else you are ingesting and chances are if you can’t pronounce it, it’s probably not worth buying.
Bottom line… It’s better to meet your protein needs with whole foods, natural and unaltered, the way nature intended us to eat.
