WHETHER you’re a seasoned gym bunny or new to working out, you will have probably heard talk of protein powders.
The supplements, which are generally whey-based (a component of milk), are high in amino acids and protein, which help rebuild and recover body tissue and muscle after a hard workout. There are also plant-based options for those looking to avoid dairy.
It’s recommended to take protein on board within an hour of finishing your fitness session.
You could, of course, get it from food or drink, but protein powder is beneficial because it is an easy way of getting it into your system quickly.
Protein powders differ greatly depending on the type of training you’re doing, and some contain additional bonuses such as creatine (good for high-intensity workouts) and caffeine.
Most powders can just be mixed with water, but some opt to mix with milk or a nut-based drink to get even more protein into their system.
What protein powder is right for you will depend on a number of factors including budget, training goals and flavour preference.
Our guide below on the best protein powder options to support an already workout-focused diet is a good place to start.
1. Bulk Powders Pure Whey Protein
- Pure Whey Protein, from £10.99 from Amazon – buy here
If you’re new to protein powders and want a relatively cheap introduction, the Pure Whey Protein from Bulk Powders is a good place to start.
The powder contains 22g protein per serving, while being low in fat and carbohydrates.
Available in flavours including chocolate orange and apple crumble and custard, you’re not going to fear the post-workout shake.
2. Maximuscle Promax Lean
- Promax Lean, £30 from Amazon – buy here
The Promax Lean by Maximuscle is a great powder for those looking to build strong, lean muscles.
A post-workout serving includes 25g protein to aid recovery, while additions of green tea and the amino acid L-carnitine are said to help boost performance and endurance.
Unlike the above offering, the flavours are quite standard for a protein powder, and include vanilla, strawberry and chocolate.
3. Optimum Nutrition: Gold Standard Whey Protein
- Gold Standard Whey Protein, £13.95 from Amazon – buy here
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard is the favourite of many gym goers, and it’s easy to see why.
The powder has 24g of protein per serving, and is low in carbohydrates, sugar and fat. It is also 'instantised', which helps to prevent lumps and clumps when mixing.
There are 12 different flavours to choose from (including a decadent double rich chocolate), while it’s available in packages up to 7lbs if you want to buy in bulk.
4. Science in Sport Rego Rapid Recovery Protein
- Rego Rapid Recovery Protein, from £12 from Amazon – buy here
Not all protein powders are focused solely on muscle building, and the Rego Rapid Recovery Protein from Science in Sport is designed for those taking on long distance endurance events.
As well as 20g of muscle-repairing protein, each serving contains 23g of carbohydrates to help replenish your body’s stores after a big effort.
The powder is also soy-based, so is suitable for those that are vegan or lactose intolerant.
5. Wyldsson Vegan Protein
- Vegan Protein, from £34.99 from Amazon – buy here
For those after a vegan protein powder that doesn’t come with a side of carbohydrates (as above), then the Vegan Protein from Wyldsson is a great option.
The 20g of protein per portion comes from a blend of pea, pumpkin and sunflower, and the whole serving comes in at just 150 calories.
The powder is also high in fibre, so will be filling, and comes in a range of flavours including vanilla and chocolate orange.
Fancy teaching yourself a bit of yoga? We've rounded up the best yoga books on the market, here.
For more fantastic health and fitness recommendations, be sure to check out our dedicated section.
Enjoyed our roundup of the best protein powders? Sun Selects is all about helping you find the best products from laptops to garden gear and beauty products at the best prices.
Source: Read Full Article