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What Are Good Protein Drinks?

Protein drinks, usually found in the form of a smoothie or a shake, are favored by bodybuilders, dieters, and people who are merely health conscious. There are many kinds of protein powders and pre-formulated drinks on the market. To find the protein drink that will be best for you, you first have to choose what kind of protein supplement best meets your needs and then decide the tastiest way to wash it down.

  1. Whey Protein Blends

    • Whey Protein Blends are a basic protein supplement. These products, usually found in a powder form that you would blend into a shake, contain protein derived from dairy products, often with soy-derived protein thrown in. The proteins are then boosted with different vitamins and amino acids. Because there is a variety of proteins contained in the same powder, your body will digest them over different periods of time.

    Other Common Supplements

    • Some people choose individual forms of protein supplements rather than going for the blended powder. Whey protein isolate is a quickly digested protein that is best used for post-workout recovery drinks. Conversely, casein, which is also derived from dairy, is digested very slowly and is mostly used as a meal replacement during a fast. Whey protein concentrate and soy protein isolate are other commonly used all-purpose protein powders.

    Homemade Shakes and Smoothies

    • Once you've procured your protein powder, it is easy to make your own shakes and smoothies at home. There are plenty of recipes available, but you basically just have to add protein powder to skim milk, water, or juice and throw in some fruit or other goodies and blend the whole thing in a blender or food processor. Some recipes call for oatmeal or cereal, others whole bananas, and other sweeten things up with chocolate or peanut butter. Experiment with your blender and make drinks to suit your own taste.

    Pre-made Protein Shakes

    • You can also buy pre-made protein shakes in most health food or bodybuilding stores. These are usually available either as a powder that requires water, or as a bottled product. These products are generally not as cost-effective, natural, or delicious as homemade protein drinks but they do offer a convenient way to pack in the protein.

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