Get it? Protein Power, Protein Powder?
All jokes aside, protein powder is a seriously helpful tool. Bodybuilders, athletes, and the physically active alike tend to swear by this stuff, especially post-workout.
It’s common knowledge that what you eat before and after a workout can affect your performance during and recovery after your hard training session. Whether you’re a runner, like to lift weights, or do yoga, nutrition is the key to unlocking you (and your body’s) full potential. While carbohydrates are essential for energy before a workout, protein is generally recommended afterwards.
Reference – ProteinPowderXpert.com
The reason behind this advice lies in protein’s main use to your body, which is to preserve energy by fortifying and repairing muscle tissue and any corresponding damage. You might have recently felt a feeling of soreness after a workout. What that actually comes from is the stretching and contraction of your muscles in ways it is not used to, leading to micro tears in the tissue, causing fatigue and soreness, commonly referred to as DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) that can last up to several days after a workout.
While this is a normal process and anybody – with continued and consistent exercise – can get used to this, leading to less frequent soreness, many swear by their protein shake directly in the 1-hour window post-workout for faster recovery. Some even have gotten creative and created recipes incorporating protein powder in their oatmeal, cookies, and other sweets.
However, where do you get started? There always seems to be a different protein powder after every turn at GNC, so which are the best ones? Here we have some of our favorites:
Cellucor Whey Protein
When I first started lifting weights, this was my go to. Generally, I find most proteins unpalatable, but (thanks to my peanut butter addiction) the peanut butter marshmallow fluff flavored whey had me dreaming in swirls of PB. In any case, if you are a serious lifter, Cellucor is the way to go and highly respected in the bodybuilding community. At only 130 calories a scoop for 25g of protein, it will pack the punch you need without taking out too many calories from the bank. However, I will note that this kind of protein powder is not necessary for cardio bunnies or people who practice lighter exercises.
Sun Warrior: Warrior Blend Raw Protein
Queue the people who say vegans don’t get any protein! If you’re vegan or whey makes your tummy hurt (as I soon found out), try this amazing raw vegan protein. In delicious flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or natural, this sprouted whole grain, gluten free, vegan protein powder is perfect for those interested in a more holistic health approach. Don’t be fooled, though, this protein is no less potent but perfect for runners and lifters alike.
Vega Sport Performance Protein
Also coming in chocolate (among other flavors) and being great for people who practice a variety or sports and activities, Vega is the all-time best. Whether you’re vegan or not, this plant-based protein will help you build strength and cut down on recovery without any mystery additives.
I’m a devotee of the MRM Veggie Protein. It’s the only powder I’ve found that doesn have a chalkiness to it. If you like a thick shake, which I do, it’s dang tasty. I alternate between the vanilla and chocolate flavors. I still need to try Sun Warrior though.
SUN WARRIOR WARRIO BLEND is my JAM!! I love that stuff so much, so delicious! 🙂 Vanilla is best!
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