Protein powder is a dietary supplement with high concentrated amounts of protein, and is naturally absorbed by the body like other protein-rich products, such as chicken and eggs. When you want to increase performance, whether on the track or in the gym, it is important to have a protein-rich and healthy diet. Therefore, protein powder is a smart and easy supplement for those who do not get enough calories or protein through their diet.
Protein powder is made from whey, which is produced in cow's milk. A few years ago, whey was a waste product, and cheese and casein were produced and preserved from the milk. It took a few years before a powder with a high protein content and lower fat and carbohydrate content was developed, but now whey protein is on the market and more popular than ever before.
Read more about protein here!
When should you take protein powder?
Protein powder is designed for those who exercise a lot, especially those who want to build or maintain muscle mass. It can also be taken by the elderly, those who want to gain weight, lose weight, or people who struggle to get enough calories and protein in a day.
Some tips:
- Older people who struggle with appetite or eat too little can get quick nutrition and calories by using protein powder.
- Those who want to lose weight can replace a meal with protein powder.
- Those who want to gain weight/muscle mass can add protein powder to their diet.
It is important to say that protein supplements should not replace a healthy and regular diet, this is intended as a supplementary product .
Is protein powder dangerous?
Protein powder is not considered dangerous, as it is a dietary supplement that contains ingredients that the body already has. However, it can be unfortunate to replace a normal diet with protein powder, as you need all the nutrients that you get through a healthy and varied diet.
Different types of protein powder
Whey Protein Powder
Whey protein comes in different varieties, the most common being Whey 80 and Whey 100 (isolate). These protein powders are highly concentrated protein and are designed to be absorbed quickly by the body. Whey is the best and cheapest alternative to fast proteins after training. This type of protein is excellent to drink after a workout, as the body needs building blocks that can rebuild what has been broken down during training.
Casein Protein Powder
Casein protein is a complete protein that is designed to be digested more slowly in the body. This makes the protein powder ideal for periods when you go longer without food, such as when you are going to bed.
Vegan Protein Powder
Vegan protein powder is a high-quality protein source that is completely free of animal products. They are typically based on soy, peas, and rice. Vegan protein powder is relatively new to the market, but has become increasingly popular and is better for the environment and the planet.
See more offers on protein powder here.
Protein powder flavors
Protein powder comes in countless flavors, and all flavors work well for different uses. A chocolate-flavored protein powder is great for mixing into oatmeal, while vanilla protein powder might be better for protein pancakes and strawberry better for smoothies. Just experiment and find your favorite combination, flavor, and brand.
Are you unsure which protein powder is right for you?
Read how to choose the right protein powder here.