Written by PROTEIN!!!! I am not sure why but every time I hear someone say something about protein or ask how much they should eat I always seem to chuckle (on the inside of course) Not because it’s a stupid question or that I am tired of hearing it but it’s seriously probably the most #1 bought supplement on the market. It’s like that high school coach told you that protein shakes are the keys to picking up chicks and having big muscles…and they still believe it! With all that aside protein in fact is very important and if some naturalist tells you that it’s overrated and your body doesn’t really need it then he/she is prob a vegan or vegetarian of some sort who is just trying to build members to support/join their “way of life”.
Your body needs proteins for maintenance and health. Not only does it help with growth but it helps with fighting against pathogens, supplying your body with energy it’s even compared to water when it comes to it’s importance within the body. You cant work your way around it! Remember though, just like anything else when it comes to protein more is not always better. You have to treat this nutrient like any other. There is a place, a time and a healthy amount.
Let’s get to the Supplements!! There are TONS of brands of protein all stating and claiming different gains. You have to look past the fancy tag lines and cool labels. The guys on the front of the tubs get paid to pose for that product. They don’t necessarily take the stuff.
- Cheaper is not better: This is a given but some people need to hear this. Yes, there is a difference between cheaper brands and more expensive. It’s called “ingredients”. Two things you need to be watching for when buying protein mixes; Sugars and Carbohydrates. The cheaper companies are going to do everything they can to put less protein and more “filler” inside their products.
- All protein blends are NOT created equal: Plain Whey protein (NONE NSF) is sometimes only 20% protein and the rest milk fat and lactose. Yeah that’s right so your feeding those starving muscles nutrients that they really can’t use. This yields minimal gains. Protein Concentrate is usually a little better with around 50% protein and the rest fats and lactose. The mix that takes the cake is Protein Isolate. With this blend you are looking at 93%+ of protein and the rest fats and lactose.
- Check the label: Times are tough! (believe me I know) and sometimes you cant afford to get the ballin tub of protein. It’s all good just be sure to compare labels when shopping around. If your looking to spend $15-$20 less this time on protein then get your original stuff and compare the labels with the cheaper brands you are looking to buy. How much protein is in each scoop compared to the amount of powder? How much carbs are you giving up or taking on? Whats the sugar content of each scoop going to be now?
- Buy your protein where you least expect it: I have never seen a meat head walk into a farmers market looking for protein powder. There could be a few reasons for this but I think simply because they don’t feel right buying something without the bells and whistles your normal GNC shop comes with. Your getting the same stuff it’s just better and more natural. Sure it may not be stuffed with creatine and other recovery filler people add to it but you were there for protein anyways!
These four points are key if you want explosive gains from your training. You have to train right, eat right and sleep right…..if those are good and you are ready to step it up. Start here.
William
