|
There are a number of different protein products on the market each serving a different purpose. The most popular protein supplements on the market include meal replacement powders (MRP), weight gainers, protein powders and protein bars. Let's take a look at each one and also its purpose.
Protein Powders
The most popular protein supplement on the market is the regular protein powder comprising mainly of protein, with minimum carbohydrates and close to no sugar.
Whey protein powders are absorbed quickly into the blood stream and are an ideal source of protein before and after workouts. But be careful, not all protein powders are the same. Make sure you check out how to choose the right protein powder before you shell out your hard earned cash.
Protein Bars
Protein bars are basically chocolate bars disguised with protein in them. Do not be fooled though, they do not taste as good as the real thing. The plus side is they are much better for you - well most of them anyway. That is where the problem with protein bars becomes apparent. To improve the taste a lot of bars add large amounts of refined sugars. Make sure you read the label. By law they are required to list the ingredients in order of the quantity used. So when choosing a protein bar aim for one with refined sugar not as the first or second ingredient on the list.
I suggest only using protein bars for convenience - therefore in times where you are unable to have a proper solid food meal.
Meal Replacement Powders
These powders are fairly low in calories and normally high in protein, moderate in carbohydrates and low in fat. They normally contain of mix of different protein blends such as whey and milk. The milk blend helps release protein slowly into the blood stream making MRP a good choice for a snack between meals. Some of the newer formulas are being released with slower released carbohydrates like oats to make to lower the products glycemic index rating.
MRP are a great choice for those that have a busy lifestyle schedule as they allow you to consume some quality nutrition with minimal preparation time.
Weight Gainers
Weight gainers are protein shakes with a high calorie base, normally in the form of carbohydrates, protein and more recently good fats. You should be very careful however when purchasing weight gainers - they are normally very high in maltodextrin (a high GI carb) and fructose (simple sugar from fruits). What you do not want is empty calories that will only help make you fat.
Newer blends such as AST Muscle-XGF (pictured right) contain lower amounts of carbohydrates and a blend of slow releasing proteins and essential fats making them a smarter choice.
So there you have it - the most popular protein supplements. Personally I just use the protein powder. If I could afford it I would definitely include a MRP between at least one meal in my day to save me time and effort in preparing the food. | 
Different Protein Supplements
