Protein Powders/Shakes/Bars

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Protein Supplements


Pros: Protein helps rebuild muscle after stress (working out of any sort).

Cons: If too much protein is taken it can effect your kidneys, and most excess protein is wasted.

Myths: Protein will make me bigger! Protein is the major building block of life. My college biology professor used to tell us, "If you want to rule the world, control protein and it's all yours." Protein is made up of various amino acids that do many things such as provide a little extra energy, rebuild, reboot your body, etc.

When looking for proteins you want to be careful what kind of brand you buy, what it says it does, and if the ingredients are actually in there (read my caution blog). Some tips to purchasing protein:

1 - Find protein with a variety of amino acids and maybe some added vitamins. The more healthy ingredients the more benefits up to a point.
2 - Avoid high sugar proteins.
3 - Find one that mixes well and tastes good. I know it's all about the ingredients, but if you can't even choke down the stuff then you won't take it often and you'll waste your money.
4 - Liquids are more easily absorbed, so shakes and mixed powders have more benefits than bars and pills.
5 - Use a reputable company's protein.
6 - If you ever have questions about it, ask a physician or even a chemist. Both can tell you if the mumbo-jumbo claims on the packaging even make physiological sense or if a bunch of fancy words are thrown into the mix.

Many people eat enough protein in foods to where they don't need excess protein. However, if you do decide to take a protein supplement, I'd recommend starting off with less than up to half the recommended daily amount. See how you feel, then work up to however much you feel you need. Remember, protein DOES NOT make you bigger, it helps you rebuild muscle.