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Five Protein Supplements For Fast Muscle Growth

If you are looking to pack on some muscle, protein is one of the essential nutrients your body needs.

When you lift heavy weights, you cause micro tears in your muscle fibers. Your body then repairs and rebuilds your muscles while you rest. But, in order to do so, it needs a constant supply of nutrients, especially the amino acids found in protein.

The more muscular you are, the more protein your body needs to maintain and build muscle. The general rule of thumb is that you should aim to consume roughly 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per day, for every pound that you weigh.

“MIXING WITH WATER ENABLES YOUR BODY TO ABSORB THE PROTEIN MUCH QUICKER THAN IF IT WAS MIXED WITH MILK.”

Eating enough food to take in the amount of protein you need can be difficult and expensive. Thankfully, supplement companies have developed a wide selection of protein powder and supplements, each having its own specific uses and benefits.

Here are five great options for anyone looking to get some extra protein in their diet.

#1 WHEY PROTEIN

Whey protein is the most popular bodybuilding supplement on the market. A byproduct of milk, whey is what is left over during the production of cheese. Whey protein is quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning your muscles have almost immediate access to the nutrients they need. It is also affordable, and comes in a variety of different flavors.

For the ultimate post-workout shake, drink whey protein mixed with water immediately following your workout. Mixing with water enables your body to absorb the protein much quicker than if it was mixed with milk.

#2 CASEIN PROTEIN

Casein protein is somewhat similar to whey protein, offering comparable benefits and results. Casein is also derived from milk, but it is obtained via a special process that separates the protein from carbohydrates and fats. Where casein protein differs, is that it is digested and broken down much slower than whey protein.

This results in a slow and steady stream of nutrients being released. Having a casein protein shake before bed is a great way to give your body a constant supply of nutrients while you sleep.

“…WHETHER YOU ARE VEGAN, VEGETARIAN, LACTOSE INTOLERANT…THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM.”

#3 SOY PROTEIN

Soy protein is a vegetarian or vegan bodybuilder’s protein of choice, since its source is non animal-based. The great thing about soybeans is that they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs. Soy protein is considered far healthier than whey protein, because it generally doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners or additives.

#4 EGG WHITE PROTEIN

Once shunned, due to concerns about cholesterol, eggs are making comeback as a source of protein. In fact, egg whites come in with a perfect score of 100 on the biological value scale. This makes egg whites the perfect protein food, as well as being packed with vitamins and minerals. Of course, egg yolks are high in fat and cholesterol. So, while eating a few is okay, you definitely don’t want to overdo it. Egg white protein is the perfect way to get the nutritional benefits of eggs, while doing away with the need to separate and discard the yolks. In addition, it is suitable for those who may be lactose intolerant.

#5 RICE PROTEIN

Another great option for vegans or vegetarians, rice protein has been found to be just as effective as whey protein. For those who may be allergic to milk-based proteins, rice protein powder is virtually allergen-free. Like casein protein, rice protein is somewhat slower to digest, making it another great option for a pre-bedtime shake.

With these five protein supplements, there is sure to be something for everyone. No matter whether you are vegan, vegetarian, lactose intolerant or allergic to eggs, there are plenty of options to choose from. A great strategy is to take one of the faster absorbing protein supplements, such as whey, soy or egg white earlier in the day, as a post-workout shake. Then, before bed, drink a shake with one of the slower digested proteins like casein or rice. This will ensure your body gets a constant and steady supply of muscle-building protein, 24 hours a day.