Best protein powders available can confuse even the savviest of shoppers, leaving women wondering what type best suits their needs.
- Whey protein is one of the most popular types of protein powder and for good reason. It’s a highly digestible milk-derived protein that contains all nine of the essential amino acids your body can’t make on its own.
This is why whey protein is considered a “complete” source of protein. Whey protein promotes weight loss, enhance muscle growth and reduce hunger in both men and women, also reduces ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite, which may explain its effectiveness in reducing hunger and boosting weight loss.
However, since whey is made from milk, this type of protein is not appropriate for vegans or those with allergies or intolerances to dairy.
- Pea protein is made from dried, ground yellow peas. It’s a favorite among vegans and people who can’t tolerate animal-based protein powders. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for people who have food sensitivities or allergies.
Although peas aren’t usually considered a powerful source of protein, more importantly, pea protein can help reduce hunger and keep you satisfied between meals.
In fact, pea protein hydrolysate, a type of easily absorbed pea protein, was found to be more effective in suppressing hunger and increasing fullness in overweight adults than whey protein.
- Egg white protein, eggs are one of the best sources of protein that you can eat. Whole eggs provide the most nutrients, but consuming egg whites, which are almost pure protein, can benefit health as well.
Egg white protein powder is a popular supplement used to boost protein intake and enhance athletic performance. It’s also a complete protein, providing all of the essential acids that your body needs to thrive. Plus, egg white protein is highly absorbable and dairy-free, making it safe for those with allergies or intolerance to dairy.
What’s more, it’s lower in carbs than other types of protein powders, which may make it a better choice for women with diabetes or prediabetes. Egg white protein powder has a mild taste and can be easily added to shakes, smoothies and baked goods.
- Brown rice protein is another vegan-friendly option for increasing protein intake. For women who are intolerant to dairy or who want to avoid animal products, brown rice protein is the way to go.
It’s one of the most hypoallergenic types of protein on the market and is easy to digest. Although it’s not a complete source of protein, like whey or egg whites, brown rice protein provides many health benefits. It’s a great choice for women looking to improve strength and increase muscle mass. In one study, brown rice protein was just as effective as whey protein for improving exercise performance and body composition.
This is good news for women who can’t tolerate whey protein but want a protein powder that can help them reach their fitness goals.
- Mixed plant-based protein powders, plant-based protein blends contain a mixture of protein sources.
They vary in texture and come in a number of flavors. Mixing plant-based proteins together into one supplement boosts its nutritional value.
The most plant-based protein sources are incomplete,combining a few different proteins can fill in those gaps. Plant-based protein blends typically combine proteins including rice, pea to maximize the nutritional value of the product.