Protein Supplements Provide Nutritional Benefits

The challenge of your body has always been to provide it with optimal nutrition. Protein is the most powerful bodybuilding supplements in our diet and the recommended amount we should consume each day is anywhere from .5 grams to 2 grams, divided into five or six small meals throughout the day, depending on your goals. Obviously, bodybuilders and athletes will need to consume higher levels and individuals who are trying to maintain and develop a healthy lifestyle will need to consume less. Exercising individuals require more protein than sedentary people.

However, because of the fast-paced lifestyle we live in today, we realize it is extremely difficult for a person to get the proper amount of protein they need from solid foods. Whether it is work commitments, taking the kids to school, for doctor appointments, dancing, or walking the dog, who has time to prepare five or six meals a day? Therefore, if getting sufficient amounts of protein from whole food proves to be difficult or for that matter impossible, you can bolster your intake with protein supplements, such as powders, shakes and bars

Supplement with Protein Powder, Shakes and Bars

When taking a protein powder you should opt for ones including a blend of the following: whey protein isolate, caseinate, milk-protein isolate, soy protein isolate and egg albumin. These protein supplements will give you all the functional benefits of each protein. For example, quality whey can boost immune function and is quickly released, while caseinate is released and digested slowly.

However, if you are lactose intolerant, as 50% of the world, finding a powder may be difficult. I, too, am lactose intolerant and after doing much searching I found that the three brands that work best for me are Dymatize, Optimum and Whey and Isopure. Whey isolates are lactose free and when other brands contain enzymes they will help to break down and digest the lactose without bloating, gas or stomach discomfort. Egg proteins are also lactose free.

When making shakes with these powders, be sure to be creative by adding fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, mangos, pineapple, etc., nuts, such as peanut butter, and cottage cheese, and this will supply you with additional vitamins and minerals, as well as make a better tasting drink.

A good nutrition bar provides quick and convenient quality protein, and often includes carbohydrates and essential fats for a more complete snack. These meal replacement bars are essentially “diet” bars; they contain the least amount of calories. They are meant to replace a meal for dieters, or as a healthy, low-calorie pre-workout or post-workout snack. Finally, protein bars are designed with weightlifters in mind. With high levels of protein, they are meant to help you build muscle and lose fat when you are training.

Bonus tip
These supplements are best taken 30 minutes before a workout as well as immediately afterward to maximize lean muscle mass and recovery. Take approximately 20 grams before workouts and 20-40 grams after workouts.