A quick overview of the best protein powder, the differences between them, and my recommendation on what I choose to buy.
Different Types of Protein Powder
Before we compare brands, it is important to distinguish the different kinds of protein powders. There are a few basic types, including: Whey, Casein, Egg, Pea, Hemp, and Plant. Here is a quick description of each.
Whey: A fast-absorbing, milk-based protein that boosts muscle growth and recovery. Also aids in fat loss. Provides all 9 essential amino acids. Also promotes satiety (fullness).
Casein: A protein found in milk that gradually builds muscle mass and aids in fat loss.
Egg: Made from egg whites. Provides all 9 essential amino acids.
Pea: A high-fiber protein made from yellow split peas that promotes satiety (fullness).
Hemp: Plant-based protein that is rich in healthy fats and several essential amino acids.
Plant: A Plant-based protein that is blended in order to increase the positive effects on muscle health.
Of these proteins, I have chosen to focus on what I believe is the most effective in most cases, and the one that I use on a daily basis, WHEY!
Why Whey?
Whey is a complete, high-quality protein that contains all of the 9 essential amino acids required for optimal health. In addition, it is very digestible, absorbed from your gut quickly compared with other forms of proteins.
- Whey is an excellent source of High Quality Protein.
- It promotes Muscle Growth.
- Whey may help to lower blood pressure.
- It may help treat Type 2 Diabetes.
- It may also help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Whey has been found to be beneficial for Irritable Bowl Disease (IBD)
- It is highly satiating (filling)
- Whey aids in fat loss along with a healthy, high protein diet.
Popular Brands of Whey Protein
There is an endless amount of brands of Whey protein on the market. Here we will be focusing on 7.
ON – Optimum Nutrition
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey contains 24g protein per serving. It however contains a patented digestive enzyme blend and ultra-filtered microfiltration process that results in a low lactose product, an addition that sets ON apart from others. You can buy ON in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate peanut butter and cookies and cream.
BSN Syntha – 6
BSN Syntha-6 Edge Whey Protein Isolate Protein Powder contains whey protein isolate, which is one of the purest forms of whey protein in the industry. It also contains zero carbohydrates and has great forms of the 9 essential amino acids. It’s also rich in BCAAs and glutamine peptides that can aid in recovery after intense workouts.
Naked Whey
Naked Nutrition Whey contains 25g of whey protein per serving. It also contains high qualities of the 9 essential amino acids to aid in building lean muscle.
Naked Nutrition Whey Protein Powder is free of artificial flavors or sweeteners. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. The product contains zero cholesterol or sugar.
Dymatize
It has a high protein content of 25g per serving. This protein product does not contain any lactose or cholesterol, helpful for those with allergies. It also contains high qualities of all 9 essential amino acids.
GNC Amp
GNC Whey Pure Isolate is GNC’s protein powder. It has, as many brands, high quality amino acids and 25g of Protein per serving. This is high level of quality protein. It also contains zero sugars and 3g of carbohydrates.
BPN – Bare Performance Nutrition
Supports improved recovery and muscle protein synthesis necessary to build lean muscle. BPN contains 88% fast acting whey protein and 12% slow digesting casein protein. This allows for a slower release of protein, which the body breaks down into amino acids and makes for a thicker, more consistent and better tasting product. It also contains 25g of high quality whey protein with only 4g of net carbs.
Ghost
Ghost is the current whey protein that I have been using lately. I love the price point at $45 per 2 pound jug and think that the flavor is outstanding. I recently bought the Coffee Ice Cream and it tastes as such.
Ghost contains 25g of protein and only 2g of net carbohydrates. It contains high quality essential amino acids and is soy and gluten free. This protein is also great used in mixes for ice cream, pancakes, cookies, and other baked goodies. Give it a try!