What is protein powder?
Protein powders are powdered forms of protein that come from plants (soybeans, peas, rice, potatoes, or hemp), eggs, or milk (casein or whey protein). The powders may include other ingredients such as added sugars, artificial flavoring, thickeners, vitamins, and minerals. The amount of protein per scoop can vary from 10 to 30 grams. Supplements used for building muscle contain relatively more protein, and supplements used for weight loss contain relatively less.
How does protein powder work?
Protein shakes provide amino acids, also known as the building blocks of proteins. Dietary supplements come in many forms, from powders to capsules to liquids. While you may find ready-to-drink protein shakes in liquid form, you can also purchase protein supplements in powder form. Many types of powdered protein supplements are available from either animal- or plant-based sources. For instance, the most popular animal-based protein powders are whey and casein, both usually derived from cow’s milk. However, if you have a milk allergy, egg white protein may be a suitable choice. As for popular plant-based proteins, you can take your pick from soy, pea, hemp, or rice protein. Lastly, as their name implies, dietary supplements are meant to help you complete or enhance your diet. Overall, protein shakes may come in handy when you don’t have high-quality protein sources available or simply can’t reach your daily protein needs through food alone.
What are the benefits of supplementing protein powder?
- being able to build and maintain muscle mass
- improved recovery time after training
- improved bone health
- improved immune system
- the convenience
- the potential cost of getting a cost effective protein for you
- kidney damage through increased ask of the kidneys
- digestive issues such as constipation
Many people would benefit from taking protein. Athletes, people looking to lose body fat by lowering calories but keeping protein up, people who need a quick fix of protein after a workout or throughout the day, and people who want to boost certain meals with extra protein such as smoothies or overnight oats.
How to supplement protein powder?
Like previously mentioned, the main ways that you can supplement protein and protein powders would be through online purchases. You can also find protein shakes in supermarkets in the dairy section.