Top Ten Types of Protein Powders
Health and fitness are hot topics in western culture. The debate between diet and exercise has raged for years with most people agreeing that some combination of both is necessary for optimal fitness. One of the general concepts that most agree on is that you cannot "out-workout" a bad diet.Eating the right sorts of foods and getting the best macro-nutrient proportions goes a long way to ensure your diet is on track for some muscle gains and fat loss. Even though "real foods" are generally the best way to get those nutrients, sometimes your tastes, schedule, or general needs can leave you lacking.
Enter Supplements.
Without a doubt, the most researched and utilized dietary supplement is protein. There's good reasons for this. Protein is utilized by your body to build and repair muscle tissue, plus it gives the body a satiated feeling that you don't get by eating carbs. Below are the best types of proteins sorted by digestibility, effectiveness, and purity.
These proteins are perfect for those on low-carb diets. They absorb quickly and are cheaper than their hydrolyzed counterparts.
Hydrolysate protein is the most expensive source of protein you will find on the markets these days and is the highest quality of protein available. It provides highly absorbable peptides that can have a great anabolic effect (highest absorption rate of the proteins available).
Whey concentrate can be used both pre- and post-workout and can also be used as a snack in between meals.
The most popular source of protein before milk proteins surpassed them, egg whites are low in fat and carbs, have no cholesterol, and are great for those avoiding dairy.
Derived from milk, whey protein is the most popular protein supplement source out there. It tastes good, is inexpensive, and absorbs quickly.
Also a milk derivative, the key difference between whey and casein is that whey is absorbed in the digestive system quickly, whereas casein is absorbed slowly and steadily. Use casein before bed to absorb while you sleep.
As a complete plant-based protein, soy is a great option for vegans or anyone who is lactose intolerant. The only downside is if you are sensitive to soy.
A near-complete plant-based protein, hemp offers the inflammation-fighting power of omega-6 essential fatty acids and is high in fiber. It's a great choice for those following a vegan diet. Some studies have also suggested that hemp protein may be more helpful in weight loss, thanks to its high fiber content, than other protein powders.
Highly digestible and easy to eat, pea proteins aren't complete, so they'll need to be augmented with a second source. They are high in glutamic acid, which helps convert carbs into energy instead of being stored as fat.
Brown rice protein is hypoallergenic and easily digested, making it an excellent alternative for anyone with a sensitive stomach or allergies to soy or dairy.