In today’s day and age, where health and fitness have more awareness than ever, protein powder is one of the most well-known nutritional supplements. Whether it is at the local gym or by your P.E locker room, you’ve probably heard people discussing the types of protein shakes they like drinking before or after their workout sessions.
What Is Protein?
Protein is a vital nutrient that our bodies need for growth, maintenance, and repair. It is an essential building block in different parts of our body, including bone, skin, and muscle.
What Are Protein Powders?
These are powdered forms of protein sourced from plants (soybeans, peas, seeds, rice, etc.), eggs, and milk (whey, casein). Of protein powders, there are 3 common forms:
protein concentrates (made by extracting protein from whole food through heat and acid or enzymes; contains 20-40% fat and carbs), protein isolates (made by filtering out most of the fat and carbs and providing more potent protein; contains only 5-10% fat and carbs), and protein hydrolysates (made by even more heating with acid or enzymes which breaks the amino acid bonds and makes it easier for the body and muscles to absorb).
Why Externally Supplement Protein In The Form Of Powders?
Protein powders can prove to be useful in situations that ask for a convenient source of complete protein. For athletes, bodybuilders, and teenagers who are still growing, protein powders are beneficial because they provide fuel for muscle growth, muscle repair and recovery, endurance, and strength. Protein powders are useful to those who opt for vegan and vegetarian lifestyles and look for alternatives to traditional protein based whole foods (meat, milk, fish, eggs, etc.) in order to meet their bodies’ nutritional requirements.
The Top 6 Protein Powders We Recommend For You, Along With Their Ratings, Are:
[wptb id=1066]This list was compiled keeping a wide range of your best interests in mind. To know more about these top protein powders, keep reading.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Why we chose it: best-selling whey protein powder, highest quality control measures
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is one of the best known protein powders in the world. Its premium whey blend is comprised of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides to help you build and maintain muscle mass. Coming in a range of different sizes and flavors, this is a formula that can be consumed anytime – before and after exercise sessions, between meals, or with meals. Any time of the day that you feel the need for some extra protein, mix this powder into a shake and you’re all set!
Highlights:
- World’s best-selling whey protein
- 24g protein per scoop
- Primary source is whey protein isolate
- Available in 20 delicious flavors (including chocolate, hazelnut chocolate, white chocolate, French vanilla crème, chocolate peanut butter, chocolate mint, double rich chocolate, etc.)
- Available in 4 different sizes
- No artificial growth hormones
- Banned substance tested
- Gluten free
- Instantized to improve mixability
- Anytime-formula to consume at any given time
Who Makes It?
Optimum Nutrition, Inc. (ON) operates under the Glanbia global nutrition group and has consistently been setting the Gold Standard in sports nutrition for over 30 years – helping ambitious athletes and bodybuilders attain their goals. With an impressive line of production facilities in various states across the United States, this organization is renowned worldwide for their nutritional supplements and their keen dedication towards maintaining the highest quality.
Pros:
- Highest quality control measures taken and banned substance tested
- Found in 20 different and delicious flavors to choose from
- Made from whey protein isolate
- Gluten free
- No artificial growth hormones used
- Can be easily mixed into water or milk
- Very reliable since it is the most used whey protein powder in the world
- Can be consumed any time
- Great for building and maintaining muscle mass
Cons:
- Not vegan friendly
- Not dairy free
- Not soy free
- Could be problematic for people allergic to lactose despite the low content
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Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder
Why we chose it: organic protein, plant-based, suitable for all
If you want some extra protein in your system but are looking for something plant-based, the Organic Plant Based Protein Powder by Orgain is the right fit for you. Completely vegan and certified by USDA organic, this product is great for anyone looking for a healthy everyday lifestyle. This is suitable for active men, women, and kids and can be consumed in a variety of ways – from mixing with water or milk to adding to baked goods like cakes, muffins, brownies, and cookies. This is great for giving you a protein and energy boost, building lean muscle, muscle recovery and can be taken pre or post workout. The product comes in five delicious flavors (creamy chocolate fudge, vanilla bean, chocolate peanut butter, chocolate coconut, and peanut butter) and also a natural unsweetened one.
Highlights:
- USDA certified organic
- 21 g protein per serving
- Vegan and dairy free
- Completely plant based (pea, brown rice, chia seeds, organic fiber)
- Non-GMO certified
- Ideal for health-conscious men, women and kids
- Good for lean muscle growth, muscle recovery, energy boost
- Can be used as meal replacement
Who Makes It?
Orgain is an American company founded in 2008 by Dr. Andrew Abraham, a cancer survivor whose personal experience looking for organic nutrition of superior quality during his treatment many years ago inspired him to make products for active people in need of wholesome, nutritious supplements on the go. Orgain is the perfect fit for people with busy lifestyles, and those interested in weight management, fitness training, and recovery. They are firm believers in clean nutrition with most of their products being Certified Organic and all of them being non-GMO and free of soy, gluten, and anything artificial.
Pros:
- USDA Certified Organic
- Vegan friendly
- Gluten free
- Soy free
- No added sugar and no artificial sweeteners
- Kosher diet-friendly
- Made without dairy and lactose ingredients
- Available in six different flavors
- Smooth, easy to dissolve formula
- For men, women, and children
Cons:
- Some users might experience bloating or nausea
Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder
Why we chose it: delicious, fast digesting, 100% whey protein isolate
Widely known to be one of the most delicious protein powders in the market, the ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein Powder by Dymatize is also one of the most effective ones for gains in muscle size and strength. It markets itself towards active athletes and bodybuilders, promising high-quality protein sourced completely from whey protein isolate that is easy to mix, digest, and absorb. Available in seventeen different mouthwatering flavors ranging from fudge brownie, gourmet chocolate, birthday cake to smooth banana, strawberry, orange dreamsicle and many more. You can consume it by mixing into water, milk, or any other beverage before workouts, 30 minutes after workouts or any other time of the day that calls for a high protein drink.
Highlights:
- Seventeen extremely delicious flavors
- Made from hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
- 25 g of protein per serving (sourced from 100% whey protein isolate)
- Banned substance tested
- Gluten free
- Super-fast digesting
- Mixes well
- Effective for gaining muscle mass and strength building
Who Makes It?
Founded in 1994, Dymatize is an American nutritional supplements company that has sales spanning across 50+ countries. They are committed to developing and delivering products that are safe, healthy, and of premium quality. Dymatize operates under a parent company, Bellring Brands.
Pros:
- Gluten free
- Made from high quality hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
- Digests quickly and easily
- Contains no banned substance
- Decadent range of flavors
- Helps with fast recovery and gaining muscle
- Mixes really well into liquids
Cons:
- Not dairy free
- Not soy free
- Not vegan friendly
- Contains artificial sweeteners
- Not for weight reduction
Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions Complete Protein and Vitamin Shake Mix
Why we chose it: well-rounded nutrition, has vitamins and probiotics besides protein
If you are looking for a product that offers well-rounded nutrition and great value for money, the Complete Protein and Vitamin Shake Mix by Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions is a great fit. Packed with protein and nourishing vitamins, collagen, fiber and probiotics – this product is truly a jackpot. This powder gives you the nutritional support to keep you healthy inside out; it promotes immune health, faster metabolism, good skin, bone health, digestive health, muscle growth, and hair and nail support. Though it is marketed towards women, this mix can be used by both men and women over the age of 18 by mixing it with water or milk and into a shake.
Highlights:
- Has 15g (neither high nor low) of protein (soy protein isolate and whey protein concentrate)
- Features flavors that taste great (decadent chocolate and vanilla bean)
- Lots of vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, C, D)
- Contains collagen, calcium, fiber, and probiotics
- Promotes healthy skin and bones
- Promotes faster metabolism + muscle growth
- Good for digestive health
- Boosts immunity
Who Makes It?
Nature’s Bounty is an American company and brand working under a parent company named The Nature’s Bounty Co. They are dedicated to serving people with nutrition to promote healthier lifestyles. They involve themselves in research to spread wellness and positivity through science. They only source ingredients from suppliers who meet their strict personal quality assurance standards as well as GMP supplement quality standards. Moreover, their facilities and laboratories have been audited by the United States Pharmacopeia and also an independent firm that oversees quality evaluation, STR (Specialized Technology Resources).
Pros:
- Excellent blend of proteins and essential vitamins and minerals
- Promotes muscle growth and recovery
- The fiber and probiotics are great for digestive health
- No preservatives
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Free of wheat, fish, and yeast
- Wide range of vitamins have a variety of different benefits
- Good for skin, hair, and nails
Cons:
- Not vegan friendly
- Not dairy free and not soy free
- Some people may experience upset stomachs
- Not appropriate for weight loss as it cannot be used effectively for meal replacement as it is low in calories and fat
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder
Why we chose it: organic plant-based protein, contains probiotics and enzymes, sugar-free
The Raw Organic Protein Powder by Garden of Life is, as its name suggests, completely natural. Certified Organic by USDA and verified by the Non-GMO Project to be completely vegan, this is a great plant-based alternative to the usual milk-based powders. What’s more, this powder is packed with whole food fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), enzymes, and probiotics besides carrying all essential amino acids in its proteins that come from 22 different low-temperature processed organic sprouts. The proteins help with both pre and post workout recovery and the probiotics and enzymes promote a healthy digestive system and function. Available in 3 flavors (chocolate, vanilla, and vanilla chai) and 1 unflavored version, you can add this to your chosen beverage and consume at your convenience.
Highlights:
- 22g of complete high protein from USA grown peas and other sprouts per serving
- Helps build and repair muscles
- 4g of Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) per serving
- Contains fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
- Contains live probiotics and enzymes
- Completely safe for vegetarians and vegans
- Promotes protein synthesis
- Great for both pre and post workout
- Free of gluten, soy, and milk
- Free of additives, artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, or fillers
Who Makes It?
Garden of Life, L.L.C., is an American company with headquarters located in Palm Beach, Florida operating for over 10 years. Their products are all USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project approved. In addition, they have other impressive certifications under their belt such as being a Certified B Corporation, NSF and Informed Choice Certified, and Gluten Free. They claim to be ‘fanatical’ about food and devoted towards promoting healthy lifestyles for their users. That’s why they produce organic food supplements developed with care and dedication.
Pros:
- Helps build and repair muscles
- High protein in every serving
- Easy to digest
- Vegan friendly and organic (USDA and non-GMO approved)
- Gluten free and dairy free (good for those sensitive to milk)
Cons:
- The probiotic and enzyme strand blend may upset the stomachs of some users
- The taste and texture can seem a little chalky due to the source being beans and legumes and the lack of artificial flavoring
- Cannot be used as a meal replacement
Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
Why we chose it: 100% premium whey, contains effective amino acids plus creatine
This Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder by Body Fortress is an ideal post-exercise protein supplement for those looking to build lean muscle, strength as well as recovery. The 100% premium whey blend is a combination of whey concentrate and isolate. In addition, the presence of amino acids and creatine improve training recovery. Available in a yummy range of flavors (banana crème, chocolate peanut butter, vanilla, cookies n’ cream, chocolate, vanilla, strawberry) mix this into your favorite beverage and drink as needed in your daily routine.
Highlights:
- 60g high protein per serving
- Premium whey protein for strength and muscle building
- Contains 12g of naturally occurring Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) per serving
- Contains amino acids and creatine to aid recovery
- Free of gluten and aspartame
- No added soy protein
Who Makes It?
Body Fortress is a well-known American brand in the realm of nutritional supplements, endorsed by professional bodybuilders, models, and fitness enthusiasts alike. It is a subsidiary of the corporation The Nature’s Bounty Co., operating for over 10 years. Body Fortress is a great option for the average user who wants effectiveness, quality, and affordability all packed into one container. They aim to be at the center of every athlete’s regimen.
Pros:
- Ample amount of protein and calories to complete your workout
- Very effective for building muscle mass
- Contains creatine, taurine, and glutamine for speedy muscle recovery
- Free of gluten
- Free of aspartame
- No soy protein, premium whey isolate and concentrate only
- Affordable
Cons:
- Slight issues with mixability may arise
- Contains no enzymes so some users may have trouble digesting, especially those who have low lactose tolerance
- Contains artificial flavor as well as natural
- Cannot be used for weight reduction
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Benefits Of Protein Powders
Protein powders are helpful supplements for people who want to work on building, strengthening, and repairing muscle (athletes, bodybuilders, people who work out) and also for those who do not get enough protein from who food sources (older adults, vegetarians, vegans). Protein powders help weightlifters to maximize muscle gains and cut back on fat.
How To Take Protein Powders?
Protein powders are mostly consumed by adding to milk, water, or any other suitable beverage. At times, they are also mixed with solid food items such as baked goods (cakes, muffins, brownies, etc.) or salads and savory items. The most common time to consume protein powder is after a workout session since that is when your muscles require it the most. However, it does not matter if you drink it pre or post workout – that does not have an impact on your muscle strength or size. Drinking protein before workouts is also a widely practiced method. People also drink protein shakes before going out in order to curb appetite. Anyway, the most important thing to note in this regard would be that getting the correct amount of protein every day is more important for your body than the time at which you have it.
Who Can Take Protein Powders?
For athletes, bodybuilders, weightlifters, and people who work out regularly – protein powders are fair game. For elderly persons, vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who does not get enough protein from their daily whole food take – this is a good choice. For people who want to lose weight – protein powder that can be used as meal replacement and curb appetite is an option.
How To Pick A Good Protein Powder?
With so many different types and options to choose from, it can seem a little daunting to really decide on a protein powder for yourself. That’s okay, we understand. And that is why we will be helping you look for one that is suited to your body’s needs. These are the aspects to look out for:
Source: Look out for the primary source of protein in the powder. Common ones are milk, eggs, peas, rice, lentils, beans, and soy. Depending on your lifestyle and limitations, pick one that fits you.
Amount: Be wary of the amount of protein per serving. A high amount of protein per serving is better suited for people with intense workout routines and active lifestyles. If your aim is not aligned with that, opt for milder options with a lower amount of protein per serving.
Taste: If you are going to drink/eat something daily, chances are that you want it to taste pleasant. Do some research and pick a flavor that you will enjoy having regularly. If you have any qualms about the presence of sugars, sweeteners, artificial flavors or additives, make sure you choose a powder that meets your requirements.
Value for money: You may or may not want to splurge on protein powders depending on a variety of reasons. If you do feel like it is an investment worth spending on, do so with caution and pick an option that is trustworthy and effective. On the other hand, if you want to jump on the protein powder bandwagon but do not want to spend too much, don’t worry, there are plenty of options to choose from without breaking the bank.
FAQs:
How much protein should I take daily?
For protein, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of your body weight. This recommended amount is how much you need to meet your basic nutritional needs.
When should I drink protein?
The best time to drink protein for the most favorable muscle growth is a matter of debate among fitness enthusiasts. It is often recommended to consume protein 15 to 60 minutes after a workout session – a time period known as the anabolic window which is thought to be the best time to get the most out of protein and other nutrients.
Is protein powder bad for your kidneys?
If consumed in very large amounts, protein powder can cause trouble to your kidneys. This is because your kidneys play a pivotal role in removing the waste created during protein synthesis; if you ingest high amounts of protein from powders, it might cause a strain on your kidneys due to them being overworked.
Can I just drink protein shakes instead of eating?
Following a protein shake diet is a method people turn to for weight loss because it curbs the appetite and reduces the daily intake of calories. Despite these methods being effective in the short-run, doctors discourage living solely or primarily off meal replacement shakes.
