Oh you workout? So you must know all about protein powder then! 

I’ve met all the “experts” on protein there is to meet. They come up to me and go “bro this is the best protein, it’s sick”. When I ask why the answer I usually get is “Oh cause this dude in the gym takes it and he’s huge”. 

Okay. Let me just start off by saying, just because someone is ripped or huge doesn’t make them an expert on the subject. Often times those types are exactly the ones stuck with old school habits that are now today scientifically proven to be, well, wrong. I’ve seen the meat heads in the gym doing wrong moves that cause more harm than good. The ones that are pushing hard, not smart and following a diet that deprives them of the nutrients and vitamins their bodies need. If you follow in their foot steps, you will eventually deteriorate yourself by the age of 40. 

So we cleared that. Now let’s get to choosing the right protein. Do you look at the most attractive label? Do you buy what’s on sale at GNC? Or do you just go with what your buddy takes? Believe it or not, 90% of people never even read the label before buying their protein. Even if they do, they have no idea what to look for. Well after reading this not only are you gonna read labels, but you’re gonna make informed decisions the next time you spend 70-90 bucks on your powder.

The 3 major ones are Whey, Casein and Beef. Whey being the most commonly used, it’s the fastest of proteins due to it’s digestion rate. A good whey protein will deliver an adequate amount of protein and BCAA’s within 30 mins of consumption. Which is the critical time frame for muscle building. Casein on the other hand is a slower type of protein. It’s made for slow digestion to feed the muscles through a longer period of time in small dosages. Beef protein is the proteins extracted from sources of meat. It usually tastes like shit and isn’t a wise choice for post workout recovery due to it’s low BCAA’s and digestion rate.  

There are many factors that come into play when choosing the right protein. A good protein powder has to be obviously high in protein, fast in digestion, and packed with the right amount of BCAA’s. Whey is the way to go! But with the amount of types of wheys out there which one do you go for? 

To be considered a great whey protein the product MUST list whey protein isolate or hydrolyzed whey protein isolate as the very first ingredient. Because Isolate is the purest type of whey protein you can get. Hydrolyzed digests even faster than Isolate due to it being pre-digested into smaller protein fragments. Hence why these products cost more.

 When reading the labels of different protein powders, look for one that is high in protein, low in fats and carbs per single scoop. Many companies write down the amount of protein per serving, and that can be confusing since the serving size consist of 2, sometimes 3 scoops. So you may have to do some math there. 

 

Take into account the BCAA’s, mainly the 3 branched chain amino acids. Leucine, isoleucine and valine. These 3 musketeers have been scientifically proven to be vital for muscle growth. They can go a long way when making the difference on you adding to your bench press or that extra half inch on your biceps.

 

My recommendations; 

I have used and experienced almost every product out there that is worth trying so when listing my proteins I put the stamp of Mr. West on these bad boys! 

 

• Gold Standard Whey & Casein from ON
• Hydro Whey & Builder from ON
• AMP 60 from GNC
• Ultimate Nutrition Iso Sensation

 All of the above are excellent choices and they can all be found at your local GNC. 

 

When is the best time to take Protein Powder?

Obviously within 30 minutes after you finish your workout. However, I often take a 20g protein shake in between meals too. On contrary to the common misconception, taking protein powder has many health benefits.

Health Benefits;

-Direct Protein – most people don’t get enough protein in their diet, just by downing a shake you consume 20-40 g. Which is almost 1-3 of your daily recommended.

-Antioxidants, Vitamins, and minerals that are found in a good protein powder.

-Speeds up metabolism. If your goal is to lose weight or gain big, you need protein! 

-Boosts immune system.

 

Hope you enjoyed reading and are now more educated on the subject. Chances are the protein you’re taking now is just fine. But knowing why you take it and how you choose it is something everyone needs to know! 

I can write 5 more pages on the subject but let’s keep it short and sweet. If you have any questions you know where to find me! 

 

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