How to Make a Protein Shake and What Protein Powder Does
by Mellie Jess on Dec 10, 2021
For decades, athletes, gym rats, and the health-conscious among us have used protein powder to supplement our nutrition. And protein powder's popularity isn't slowing any time soon.
In fact, the use of protein powder grew by 31 percent in 2020.
If healthy nutrition is on your mind and you haven't used protein powder before, you may be wondering, what does protein powder do? How much protein powder should I take? How do I make a protein shake?
Here, we will answer your most pressing questions about protein powder. Read on to learn more about how this nutritional supplement can help to make your health and fitness goals a reality.
What Does Protein Powder Do?
Whether you're a couch potato or a bodybuilder, protein is an important part of a healthy diet. A diet containing a sufficient amount of protein is essential for your immune system, skin, heart, and brain health.
Many people get sufficient protein from their regular diet, from food sources like fish, eggs, legumes, and meat. So why is protein powder so popular?
Research has shown that if you exercise and as you age, you might need twice the daily recommended value of protein in your diet.
Protein is the building block of muscle, so anytime that you are working to increase your muscle mass, you should up your protein intake.
Protein powder is a quick and easy way to get an extra boost of protein in your diet. The best protein powder will also include other essential nutrients to further supplement your health.
There are many different types of protein powder:
- Dairy
- Pea
- Soy
- Rice
- Collagen
Whey protein powder, which comes from cow's milk, is one of the most commonly used and widely available varieties. It is quickly digested by the body and can help curb your appetite.
However, if you are on a plant-based diet or have a dairy intolerance, you might be curious about vegan protein powder. Pea, soy, and rice are common sources used to create plant-based protein powders.
Looking for more info on protein powder? Read our Ultimate Guide to Protein.
