How to Pick a Protein Powder

Thinking of protein powders might bring to mind professional athletes and bodybuilders who make a career out of diet and exercise. Despite this cliché, protein powders provide many health benefits to the average person as well. Whether you are looking to lose weight, gain muscle, find a meal replacement or simply looking for a healthy snack, you have several protein powder options available from which to choose. An evaluation of your exercise routine, desired results and purpose for taking protein supplements is vital to determining which type of protein powder is right for you.

Instructions

• 1

  Evaluate your nutritional plan and dietary needs. Whey and egg white protein powders are animal-based proteins that are "more efficiently absorbed and used by the body than any other type," according to the website Allstarhealth.com. While not necessarily weight-loss options, these protein powders provide a high intake of protein for those dieting and exercising. Soy protein is a plant-based alternative to whey and egg white protein powders. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration website states "diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 25 grams of soy protein a day may reduce the risk of heart disease."

• 2

  Choose the amount of protein that you want to take with each serving. Some protein powders for professional athletes and serious bodybuilders can included excesses of 60 g of protein per serving. Consult your doctor or personal trainer about the right amount of protein for your diet.

• 3

  Decide how and when you will use your protein powders. Some protein powders require the use of a blender to ensure a proper mix while others can be mixed into a water bottle or tumbler and used on the go.

• 4

  Experiment with different brands and types of protein powders to determine which flavors best suit your personal tastes. The type of protein powder that you use will also impact how the product tastes. Experiment with smaller sizes of protein powder to determine different types of and flavors of protein powders.