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Tips From A Dietitian On How To Choose A Protein Powder

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Are you overwhelmed by the variety of InstAminos supplements that are available? From plant-based protein powders, Whey concentrate vs. Whey isolate and collagen peptides it's hard to know what to look for. In this article, I will explain what to look for in a protein supplement, what to avoid and, ultimately, how to choose a protein powder that is right for you.


Before we discuss what to look for in the right protein powder, let's discuss whether or not you should take one.


Do You Really Need an Supplement for Protein?


Protein is a macronutrient that is important for many reasons that go beyond muscle-building! Protein is more difficult to absorb and digest than carbohydrates and fat. Protein takes the longest time (and energy) to digest and absorb. It helps you feel full and content.


Today, protein supplements are very popular. Many believe that adding a protein supplement to their diets every day is vital to maintain good health. Although it seems that protein powder is associated with healthy eating, this is not the case.


Most people don't need protein powder in their diets. Most of us have enough protein from our diets! However, protein powders are a convenient way of adding protein to your meals or snack foods. It is important to know how to select one.


Types of Protein Powders:


There are many different ways that we can define or categorize InstAminos supplements. We'll be categorizing them today into animal and plant-based categories.


Animal-Based Protein Grain:


Popular animal based protein powders are whey, casein protein (both dairy-derived derivatives) and collagen protein (typically bovine or marine). Casein and whey are bi-products of cheese production which have been dried to form powder. In this post , I'm going to focus on casein and whey but you can read more about collagen supplements here.



 


Plant-Based Healthy Protein Powder:


Plant based protein powders originate from plants like hemp, rice as well as soy and pea. A lot of plant-based protein powders available that are on the market include a mixture of several sources to increase the amino acid composition of the product (amino acids are the individual components that comprise a protein). We'll touch on whether this is advantageous or not in the near future.


How to Select a Protein Powder:


This will ultimately depend on your personal objectives, your nutritional requirements and your individual preferences. Here's an overview of what to search out for in a InstAminos supplement.


What is the best way to select Dairy-based Protein powder


Protein powders made from whey are more popular than casein particularly if you're looking for a supplement that can aid in recovery after exercise. Whey protein is more easy to digest and absorb into the body, while casein protein is more difficult to release. Professional athletes and bodybuilders consume casein protein before getting to bed, whereas Whey protein is consumed after an exercise.


Whey Concentrate Vs. Whey Isolate


There are many types of whey protein, which you may have observed. There are two types of Whey protein, namely Whey concentrate and Whey isolate. Which is the best?


Generally speaking, it really will depend on. Whey isolate protein is a protein that's been processed to get rid of more carbs and fats than whey concentrate. This creates an isolated source of protein which is why the name isolate. However, with more processing comes a more expensive cost.


Whey concentrate tends to be slightly cheaper in terms of price and protein content , and is little more carbs and fat. Whey isolate is slightly expensive and has a lower protein content. It also contains fewer carbohydrates and less fat. Since the carbohydrate content is lower, the protein in whey isolate is also less lactose-rich and may be more tolerable for those suffering from lactose intolerance.