Things to Verify Before You Buy Protein Powder

Author: Shirley Daniel 

Based on a 2019 survey, around 66 per cent of participating Australians bought protein powders over protein bars and ready-to-drink (RTD) products. This finding is not surprising since a quick look at the ingredients shows that protein bars and RTD contain carbohydrates and sugar.

Before you go ahead and buy protein powder, you should find a suitable one for your needs.

For Athletes and Bodybuilders

To build muscles, nutritionists recommend athletes and bodybuilders to buy protein powder containing whey isolates. Aside from its quick absorption by the body, whey protein strengthens and helps the muscles recover faster after workouts.  Products with slow-releasing casein will further improve recovery periods between gym visits. Creatine is another must-have ingredient for those who need energy during intensive exercises, especially heavy lifting.

Athletes should look for a protein powder certified by Human and Supplement Testing Australia (HASTA) to ensure that the supplements have not been contaminated.  Many athletes have lost their careers as a result of doping allegations.

For People Who Want Lean Muscles Without Bulk

To achieve this perfect athletic look, they buy protein powder with a perfect protein to carbohydrates ratio of 40:60.

For Dieters

Dieters should choose protein powders without branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) to avoid muscle buildup and its resulting gain in weight. They should also check the ingredients for added sugars and carbohydrates.

Generally, protein powders will keep one fuller for a longer period. Choose products with L-carnitine to assist in burning fats.

For People with Diabetes

Similar to the above category, people with diabetes should avoid protein powders with sugar and carbohydrates.

For Vegetarians

Those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet should buy protein powder made from plant-based sources like soy, peas, brown rice, and hemp.

The best products contain a blend of amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, millet, and chia. These are taken from plants that are known for their health benefits.

For Those with Kidney Problems

For people diagnosed with chronic kidney disease(CKD), they should take protein in lower doses of below 15 grams per serving.

For People with Digestion Problems

If one has irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), doctors recommend plant-based protein powders with prebiotic fibres like inulin.  Buy protein powder with enzymes that prevent bloating.

For Those Who Need Immunity

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, everyone needs to boost their immune system, especially the front-liners. There are protein powders that also have L-glutamine, an amino acid that is necessary for a strong immune system.

For Busy People

For those who are too busy to cook and prepare nutritious meals, the best option is to use supplements like protein powder. They can add whey powder to smoothies or oatmeal. Or sprinkle protein powder over store-bought soups and pizzas.

For Older Adults

In a survey done by McMaster University, whey protein is a big help for seniors who need to rebuild their bones and muscles for the following reasons:

• Long periods of inactivity, perhaps due to a long hospital stay
• Sarcopenia, which is the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength
• Accidents, like falling down
• Osteoporosis

Combined with exercise, older adults recover their strength faster than those who did not take whey protein.

Although protein supplements are pricey, one can save if they buy protein powder instead of RTD shakes and protein bars.

Author Bio: Shirley Daniel is a copywriter and content strategist. She helps businesses stop playing around with content marketing and start seeing the tangible ROI. She loves writing as much as she loves the cake.