Choosing a Protein Powder - Me Only Better (2024)

Protein shakes are a great way to stay satiated on the go without overloading on calories. Beneficial for weight loss, muscle building and picky eaters, protein powders come in various formulas and flavors.

First, find which type of protein source you prefer; then, check out some easy ways to add protein powder to your diet plan!

Different Types of Protein Powders

Whey: This is a milk protein often considered the best option for maximizing health benefits. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Whey protein is also known for being easy to digest. Whey protein comes in multiple formulas – whey concentrate, whey isolate and whey hydrolysate – each with varying degrees of protein by weight concentration and caloric content.

Casein: This protein comes from cow’s milk. Compared to whey, casein tends to take longer to digest in the stomach’s acidic environment, meaning it releases amino acids much more gradually. For this reason, casein-based protein powders are often used in the evening before bed by people who are trying to maximize muscle growth.

Plant-Based: These protein powders are a great option for vegan and/or vegetarian diets as well as folks who don’t tolerate dairy well. With that said, plant-based protein powders may be less digestible in general. Depending on the ingredients, plant-based protein powders may not be considered complete protein sources because they are more likely to be missing one or more essential amino acids.

Plant-based powders source their protein from a variety of ingredients like peas, brown rice, almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and/or soy. Of these, soy is considered the most complete plant-based protein type.

Egg-Based: Egg protein tends to be a pricier and much less common. But it can be a great protein source for people with milk allergies or those looking to diversify their protein powder collection and experiment with various products and flavors.

Other Protein Powder Labels to Look For

Depending on your unique dietary needs, there may be certain protein powders that are better suited for your digestive system – or your taste buds! Look out for these labels when shopping for protein powders: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Vegan, Organic, etc.

4 Reasons to Add Protein Powders to Your Diet

1. Protein is essential for healthy bones, skin and hair. It plays a big role in keeping your body healthy and functional!
2. Protein can boost metabolism. Protein makes your body burn more calories during digestion, compared to foods that consist of carbs and fat.
3. Protein can help you feel fuller for longer. Hunger can ramp up cravings for snacks in between meals. By getting more protein, your body feels satiated for longer periods of time – which is helpful when trying to reduce caloric intake and lose weight.
4. Protein can help you maintain lean muscle mass. Diet and exercise can trigger weight loss – but if you’re low on protein, that means precious lean muscle can go away, too. Getting enough protein can help your body burn fat first while preserving muscle tone.

Quick Protein Powder Diet Tips

• Check labels for caloric content by weight. Some protein powders are more concentrated. Add the right amount and adjust your diet to accommodate extra protein and calories.
• Look for protein powders with a short ingredient list. Fewer ingredients typically means better purity and easier digestion.
• Find flavors you love! Protein powders come in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and more – making them a delicious addition to shakes, smoothies and oatmeal.

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