How to Select a Protein Powder
Protein powders are becoming a common addition to many people's daily diets. They have been used by body builders, vegans and vegetarians for years. However, protein powders can be beneficial for many people as they aid in building muscle, preventing muscle from breaking down after exercise and boosting nutritional absorption for people with degenerative diseases. Recently, the demand for high-quality, tasty and convenient protein powders has resulted in dozens of options. Here are some tips for selecting a protein powder that is right for you.
Instructions
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Decide what you want out of a protein powder. Some protein powders are geared towards gaining weight and muscle, where others are strictly a protein supplement. Additionally, some are meal replacements that contain protein, vitamins and minerals and fiber, to help you feel full.
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Choose the base ingredient for your protein powder. Protein powders are commonly available as a soy, whey, or egg white-based product. Less common protein sources are rice, rice and pea blends and hemp protein powders.
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Check the products to see if they are made from a protein isolate or concentrate. A protein isolate is typically a purer form of protein. The concentrate contains a lower percentage of protein but is often less expensive than the protein isolates.
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Check the protein amount, serving sizes and number of servings in each of the available protein powders. Some protein powders may appear high in protein but the serving size will be very large, resulting in few actual servings per container.
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Choose a flavor. Depending on the brand, protein powders can be available in many different flavors. Larger product lines often provide one serving packets of their protein powders, giving you the opportunity to try different flavors without risk of losing money.
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Choose the protein powder that will suit your lifestyle. If you are on the go, you may want to choose a protein powder that mixes easily with water or milk. Some powders will not mix easily and require a blender.
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Tips & Warnings
Plain protein powders can often be added to homemade foods like breads, muffins and vegetable or meat loaves to increase the protein levels.
Some whey protein powders are lactose-free to accommodate people with lactose intolerance.
Protein powders have varying amounts of sugars and carbohydrates; however, some are specifically made for a low glycemic index and will be labeled.
Protein powders can contain common allergens. Most brands will state which allergens the product either contains or is free of on the label.
