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Now you have your Beyond Shaker Bottle; you need to choose protein powder to use in it. But which is best for your body? In this guide to protein supplements, we’ll compare animal-based and plant-based options to help you decide which one is right for your post-workout smoothie.
Animal or Plant?
When it comes to choosing the perfect protein powder, you have endless options. Here we’ll take a look at the most popular protein supplements available in the UK today.
Whey Protein Powder
Whey protein is the most popular post-workout supplement for bodybuilders, weightlifters, HIIT enthusiasts, and professional athletes. Made from cow’s milk as a by-product during the cheesemaking process, it is a nutrient-dense liquid that includes all nine essential amino acids and a whole host of vitamins and minerals to support good health.
Whey protein powders are low in lactose, making them easier on the digestive system than many dairy products, and they are typically low in calories. Studies suggest that protein supplements can support muscle growth, increase muscle strength, and help the body recover after strenuous exercise, all while aiding weight loss as part of a calorie-controlled diet.
Casein Protein Powder
Casein Protein is another milk derivative with the same health benefits as whey protein, but we digest it differently. When casein shakes hit the stomach, they interact with stomach acids and delay the absorption of amino acids. This process can make us feel fuller for longer and decrease our appetite, so casein protein is ideal for those who want to lose weight.
Egg Protein Powder
Eggs are an excellent source of digestible protein. In their natural form, they contain all the essential amino acids that we cannot produce ourselves, along with 13 vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and healthy fats. But they are not for everyone.
If you find it difficult to stomach cooked eggs in any form, egg protein powder could be the perfect solution. Made from egg whites (rather than whole eggs), they are high in protein but low in fat, making them ideal for those looking to build lean muscle mass.
Pea Protein Powder
Pea protein powder is a plant-based alternative made from yellow split peas. Popular with those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, it contains isoleucine, leucine, and valine, the three essential amino acids for muscle growth. It also provides a good source of iron. Pea protein shakes are naturally hypoallergenic and recommended for those with dairy intolerances.
Brown Rice Protein Powder
Brown rice protein powder is inexpensive and available in almost every health food store, so it is no surprise that it is one of the most popular plant-based proteins consumed in the UK. As the name suggests, it comes from brown rice and includes an impressive list of essential amino acids, such as cysteine and methionine, to enhance sports performance and boost the body’s natural detoxification process.
Soy Protein Powder
Like whey, soy protein powder is a complete protein that includes all nine essential amino acids. Due to its beneficial plant compounds and mineral content, it is a popular protein supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts following plant-based diets. And it is the ideal supplement for those who struggle to digest dairy-based proteins.
Hemp Powder Protein
Hemp powder protein supplements come from the plant of cannabis but contain only amounts of THC trace or tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive chemical of marijuana. Like soy protein, hemp protein has all nine amino acids and is a good source of omega-3 and omega-6. For those who need more minerals, this superfood supplement has an impressive profile including magnesium, iron and zinc, and you’ll get a healthy dose of fibre, too.
Whey Protein vs Plant Protein
So now we come back to our original question, which protein is best for your body, plant or whey? Only you can answer that. Both animal and plant proteins help increase muscle mass, burn fat, improve strength, and manage weight, but they have slightly different nutritional profiles.
If you are on a vegetarian or vegan diet, try the plant-based options above. If not, whey protein shakes mixed well in a protein shaker could help you reach your health and fitness goals.
