How to Pick the Best Protein Powder: Quick & Easy Guide
Protein powders are famous for muscle building and post-workout shakes. But protein is a critical nutrient that’s good for so much more than your biceps. In fact, protein is the building block for nearly every tissue in your body, including bones, muscles, skin, and cartilage. You also need protein to help make things like hormones and enzymes. It’s no wonder protein is such a hot topic in health and wellness, especially when it comes to supporting post-gym recovery.
But with all the protein powders flooding supermarket shelves, choosing the right one can be confusing. Whether your goal is weight loss, joint support, or simply finding a delicious meal replacement, this article breaks down some of the most popular protein powders and how to choose the right supplement for your goals.
In this article you will learn about:
Whey Protein Concentrate
Probably the best studied and most used protein powder on the market, whey is a cow milk derived powder with a full array of essential and non-essential amino acids, including muscle building branch chain amino acids (BCAAs).
Whey protein concentrate is the liquid part of milk that separates from the curds during the cheesemaking process. It’s super high in protein and contains some fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, and minerals.
It’s excellent for weight loss and building lean muscle. Since it can help decrease your cravings and build a stronger immune system, it’s perfect as a meal replacement you can use any time of day. When choosing a whey concentrate, make sure it’s organic and sourced from grass-fed, pastured cows.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey protein isolate is filtered even further than whey concentrate to remove nearly all traces of lactose, fat, carbohydrates and cholesterol. This makes it a better choice if you suffer from any dairy allergies or sensitivities.
It’s also higher in protein and BCAAs, making it ideal for athletes and bodybuilders looking to build muscle and/or gain weight. All whey protein isolate has to contain at least 90% protein. Each scoop of Natural Force Organic Whey Protein Isolate contains 20 grams of pure protein, 4.5g BCAA, 0gms fat, and less than 1g of sugar.
It’s the perfect protein if you’re looking to boost strength, recovery, or want to keep looking lean.
Why Organic is Important
Regardless of your goals, organic is always the better choice. Here are a few of the main benefits of choosing an organic protein powder over the conventional alternative:- Pesticide, antibiotic, and hormone-free. Non-organic supplements can contain pesticides, antibiotics, and synthetic hormones that can wreak havoc on your body. For more information on this important difference, check out this article.
- Higher nutritional value. Animals raised eating and living in alignment with their genes contain more nutrients, antioxidents, and beneficial fats like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and omega-3 fatty acids. When you choose organic, your reap these benefits!
- Responsible sourcing. To qualify for organic certification, a farmer must practice good land management, the preservation of soil fertility, and the protection of water and air quality. So not only does choosing organic products mean you're caring for yourself; you're also caring for the planet.
Choosing the perfect protein (or proteins!) for your body will help you reach your weight loss, lean muscle, weight gain, and/or muscle gain goals or simply provide you with the best meal replacement for busy days.
Do you have a favorite protein powder? Let’s hear about it in the comments below!
(Want articles like this via email? Here's the sign up)