As you go about your workout and nutrition program, there is going to come to a point where you are likely going to look into the variously available supplements. One supplement you will want to invest in is a good quality protein powder. But, what is the best protein powder to use? How can you ensure which protein you buy, it's the one which will yield optimal results? When it comes to figuring out the best protein powder to consume, there are a few things you will need to consider. Let's look at each of these, so you feel confident you have figured out your solution...
1. When Will You Be Using The Protein Powder? If you are planning on using it immediately post-workout, for instance, you will want to go with a whey isolate type which is faster-digesting and designed to help with recovery after intense exercise. A whey isolate form will be superior at this time and lead to optimal results.
If on the other hand, you are taking it right before bed, a casein type might be your better bet. A casein protein powder is the best one for this time because it's slower digesting in nature, so will help keep your body fed during the overnight fasting period.
If you plan to use the powder during the day, then perhaps a meal replacement powder that combines protein with healthy fats and carbohydrates would be your best bet as it will also cover the other nutrients you may not have time to take in and also offer more satiety.
2. What Does Your Overall Diet Look Like? When choosing your best protein powder, consider your calorie intake and how many grams of proteins, carbs, and fats you plan to consume each day.
If you are on a strict fat loss diet and cannot afford to "spend" any extra carbs or fats, a whey isolate is your best bet as it tends to be the leanest type of protein you can buy.
If you are on a muscle-building plan, however, and don't mind a few grams of carbs or fats, you will have more options and may want to consider a whey concentrate, or possibly even a weight gainer product, which is also designed to provide calorie support.
3. What Factors Are Most Important To You? Along with considering your calorie needs, also think about other factors important to you. Does taste matter? If so, you will need to read reviews and see which brands came in with the best taste rating.
Others may prioritize mixability. If you are going to be consuming this drink at the gym, you cannot bring your blender along, so it will be good to know you can mix it in your shaker cup.
Another factor is the added ingredients. Usually, the best options are those relatively pure with few ingredients added. If you look at the ingredient line-up and see the powder contains various fillers, artificial sweeteners, and other additives, this may put you off. The more natural a protein powder is, the better it is going to be for your body.
Finally, you may also value a lactose-free product. Most protein powders are quite low in lactose overall so don't pose too much of a problem to most anyway. If you are particularly sensitive, you might need to find a product completely lactose free. If it is, it will usually state this on the package.
4. How Much Can You Spend? Also, think about how much you want to spend. Protein powders can vary widely in cost and, in some cases, you do get what you spend. The best of the highest quality can be a little pricier, so if that is what you are after, be prepared to pay for it. This doesn't mean you cannot get a quality powder on a budget. Shop around, and you can find one that will work. Also be sure to watch for sales as there are supplement specials that can help reduce your total costs.
5. Finding The Best Protein Powder. All of this said, which one is the best? There is no single answer here because as you can see, this will vary depending on the individual.
Spend time reading labels and customer reviews, and this will help out significantly. First, pinpoint what it is you are after, and once you know, you can then narrow your selection and start figuring out which protein powder to invest in.
When first trying protein powder, it is also a wise move to invest in a smaller tub or ask if a sample is available. This way you can try it before buying the 10lb tub that will last you for months.
Written by Beverleigh H Piepers
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Beverleigh_H_Piepers/123142
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