From the Blog

Best Protein Powder

Protein powders can be part of a healthy diet, but how do you know which is the best whey protein powder? You don’t want to waste your money. You want to buy the protein that is going to help you reach your goals.

Finding the best protein powder may not be as simple as it sounds because even though some brand names are well known, that doesn’t translate into their protein powders being of a high quality. This is why I have introduced my own whey protein.

Catalyst 4 Fitness Whey Protein

Look at these properties.

1.  Absorption.  Whey is fast-acting and casein is slow, so you should take whey pre- or post-workout, and opt for a casein blend before bed.

2.  Mixability.  Whether you are making a shake or baking with it, you don’t want clumps that you have to mix through.

3.  Usability.  A casein blend is much better for baking.  Whey can be used but it creates a denser bar, cookie, or bread unless you add baking powder or baking soda.  Either protein can effectively be used in shakes or pancakes.

4.  Ingredients.  Does the manufacturer use products from reputable sources? Are there fillers? As an example, my protein uses Stevia instead of sucralose.

5.  Biological Value. This is how protein is absorbed and used by the body for growth. The higher the BV, the greater the efficiency. Egg protein (whole eggs) has a BV rating of 100, egg whites at 88, chicken at 79 and lean beef at 69. Whey protein concentrate has a BV of 104 and Pea protein (often found in Vegan protein) has a BV of 65.

6. Concentration. Is it a good value? For instance, if you want 20 grams of protein, do you need to take one scoop or three? How many calories, grams of carbohydrates, and grams of sugar come along with those 20 grams of protein?

7.  Overall price.  If you order online, be sure to factor in shipping costs.  Are discount codes available, or free shipping when a minimum total amount is met? If you use it daily, have you considered buying it in bulk?

8.  Last but definitely not least, taste.  Does the product taste good?  Is it chalky?  Have you tried more than one flavor?  Just because you don’t like one flavor from a manufacturer, you shouldn’t discount their entire product line.