3 Quality Protein Powder Brands to Shop

If you are looking for a healthy way to get protein and replenish those muscles after a workout, protein powder is your new BFF. Protein shakes are an easy, convenient, and healthy way to get the necessary amount of protein after exercising . It’s all about finding quality protein powder brands to meet your body’s needs.

What Are the Benefits of Protein Powder?

Ashley Carter, registered dietitian and co-founder of EatWell Exchange , explained that protein shakes are easy to absorb, as they are liquid. They are easier to digest than solid food, and they are designed to be broken down into smaller components.

“After a long workout, it may be challenging to cook a full meal to fulfill the protein and energy needed,” Carter explained. “A protein powder shake can be a convenient option!”

Another benefit to protein powder shakes is there are so many options available, Carter added. They vary in amounts of protein, types of milk, flavor, and calories. Also, if it does not have enough nutrients, Carter suggested adding fruits, veggies and chia or hemp seeds.

“Protein should ideally come from food sources like meat, beans, eggs, and nuts,” she said. “But I support the use of protein shakes to help fulfill adequate protein intake after a workout.”

Here are a few dietitian-recommended protein powders worth trying and how to customize them for your exercise routine.

• Best Price Point: Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder
• Highest Amount of Probiotic : Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder
• Highest Amount of Pure Protein : Naked Whey

Best Price Point

Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder

The first quality protein powder brand that Carter recommended was Orgain. It is certified organic, non-GMO, and does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. There is also a range of flavors, and they have dairy and whey options.

Orgain’s protein powders are often blended with additional nutrients like fiber, which helps with digestion and satiety. The plant-based protein has about 21g per serving, which is less than some of the comparable brands. However, it is still within the recommendation of 20-40 grams.

“For the quality, it is quite affordable when compared to similar products, and it is easy to find at most stores,” Carter said. “As far as taste, it is smooth, flavorful, and not too sweet, but the taste will depend on your preferences.”

Highest Amount of Probiotic

Garden of Life Organic Protein Powder

Garden of Life is another organic, non-GMO option. This protein powder brand is also free of artificial fillers and sweeteners. An additional benefit is it contains probiotics, digestive enzymes, and all the amino acids for a complete protein.

“These probiotics and digestive enzymes are a good addition, especially for a person who typically has an upset stomach when trying protein shakes,” Carter added.

Garden of Life protein powder offers 22 grams of protein per serving. It is also made with organic pea protein and other plant sources like brown rice, and chia seeds. Some of the plant-based options in the Garden of Life line might have more carbohydrates due to the added fiber and whole-food ingredients.

Carter advised that while the carbs are mostly from natural sources, it’s important to check the label to monitor your carb intake. Garden of Life products are manufactured by third-party certified facilities that meet or exceed current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs). This ensures good quality and that it does not have any harmful ingredients.

Highest Amount of Pure Protein

Naked Whey

Carter’s final pick was Naked Whey Grass Fed Whey protein powder. This protein powder supports muscle growth and post-workout recovery. Since it is whey protein, it is made from dairy. Carter explained that it is not recommended for someone who is allergic to dairy or who is sensitive to lactose.

Although pricer, the Naked Whey contains more protein. Each serving provides 25 grams of protein. It is primarily from whey protein isolate, which is a highly pure form of protein. It is low in sugars, and there are a range of flavors. Carted explained that the ingredient list is very small, and it does not contain anything outside of the whey protein isolate.

“The company is upfront about using grass-fed, pasture-raised cows from farms that follow strict standards, resulting in higher-quality protein,” she added.

Tailoring Protein For Your Workout

You can choose protein powder to fit the specific needs of your workout. For high-intensity cardio, opt for protein powders with added carbohydrates and electrolytes. They will enhance recovery and replenish the glycogen stores. Carbohydrates paired with protein will help with muscle repair and also to restore your energy reserves.

“A fast-absorbing whey protein isolate is perfect for restoring energy, and it will quickly transport amino acids to the muscle,” Carter explained.

When strength training, the goal is to promote muscle growth, repair muscle fibers, and increase strength. For this type of workout, Carter encouraged a combination protein powder, which is a blend of protein isolate and whey protein concentrate.

Also, when strength training, be sure to choose a protein powder that has branched chain amino acids (BCAA). This helps with muscle synthesis and forming new muscles.

For lower impact exercises like yoga, light cardio, or pilates, opt for a protein powder that will support recovery and help with joint health. Plant-based options typically are higher in fiber. They may have probiotics and added vitamins.

“You also do not need as much protein for lower impact or shorter exercise,” Carter said. “The focus is to have enough protein to recover and to add beneficial micronutrients as well.”

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