Choosing the Right Protein for Your Protein Powder

Protein powders are very popular because they are:

  • Either fat and cholesterol-free or contain only a small fraction of the fat and cholesterol found in high-protein foods,
  • Cheaper when compared to high-protein foods like meats and fish,
  • Beneficial in ways beyond merely supplying extra protein,
  • Great-tasting and can be used by your entire family, and
  • More convenient than high-protein foods like meats, fish, eggs and dairy

When choosing a protein powder, the most important thing to consider, especially if you have a food allergy, is what ingredients they contain. If you cannot take one type of protein powder, there are still several other kinds to choose from. A good protein powder manufacturer will provide all different types.

Types of Protein Powder

Although there are a wide variety of protein powders available from different protein powder manufacturers, there are essentially four major kinds of proteins that companies like to use –

1. Whey Protein – Whey protein is derived from milk. It is by far the most popular type of protein used in protein powders. For most people, it’s the best overall choice in terms of taste, quality and cost.

2. Milk (Casein) Protein – Milk protein (casein protein) is another milk protein derivative and is similar in taste to whey protein. The key difference between whey and casein is that whey is absorbed in the digestive system more quickly while casein is absorbed more slowly.

3. Egg White Protein – Egg white protein was the most popular type of protein supplement for many years before the better taste and lower cost of milk proteins surpassed it in popularity. As with milk protein derivatives, egg white protein is also naturally very low in fat and carbs. Egg white protein is cholesterol-free and is the best choice for those who need or choose to avoid consuming dairy products.

4. Plant Protein – There are a number of different plant-based protein sources. Among the vegetable sourced proteins, soy protein, rice protein and pea protein are the most popular. Plant proteins are ideal alternatives to whey, milk or egg white protein. They are derived from a variety of sources including peas, hemp, sprouts, grains and seeds like brown rice. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, and often provide additional antioxidants, amino acids, fiber and more. Plant proteins are best for vegetarians, vegans and for people that are lactose intolerant.