If you’re looking to gain muscle and lose weight, you’ve probably heard the terms ‘Protein Plus’ or ‘Protein Powder’. These are the two main types of protein supplements a fitness consumer will encounter. While there are several varieties of each type, the general differences between the two are their source and their taste.
Protein powder is generally derived from soybeans, and has a slightly sweet taste that some people find difficult to tolerate. On the other hand, protein plus is usually animal-based, and has a much more pleasant texture that makes it easier for people to consume. While there are several studies that suggest both forms of protein supplements are effective when consumed at the same time, it’s generally recommended to mix them in a drink for optimum results.
Which Type of Protein Should You Try First?
If you’re new to weight loss, dieting, or nutrition, it might be a good idea to start out with protein powder first. This is mostly due to the fact that it’s easier to consume, and there’s a wider variety of flavours and textures to choose from. On the other hand, many people prefer protein plus because it has a more natural taste, and its texture is similar to that of muscles, making it easier to identify when eaten during training. That being said, both forms of protein supplements are extremely effective at increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat, and most people experience noticeable effects after just a few weeks of consumption.
When Should You Try Them?
If you’re already following a routine fitness routine, you might want to try adding protein supplements to it. One of the biggest advantages of protein powder is that it can be easily integrated into any diet or regimen, since it doesn’t have any particular restrictions regarding the type of food you need to avoid. Most protein powders are designed to be mixed with a liquid, and many people find this facilitates consumption and helps maintain a proper balance of nutrients. If you’re looking to start losing weight or just want to enhance your current regimen, combining protein powder with an already established workout routine is probably your best bet.
How Much Should You Consume?
The amount of protein you need depends on several factors, such as your body weight, your daily activity level, and the type of food you eat. If you’re new to weight loss or just want to enhance your current fitness routine, start out with half of the recommended dose, then gradually increase it over the course of a few weeks. For instance, if you weigh between 70kg and 80kg, you should consume between 25g and 35g of protein daily to start with, then gradually increase your intake to reach the recommended level of 55g to 65g per day. This is the general rule for most people, but it varies from person to person depending on their current health status, the type of diet they follow, and other factors. Some experts even recommend consuming more than the recommended amount to obtain the best results from protein supplements.
As for the type of food you need to eat, the American Institute of Stress recommends that men should eat four to six ounces of meat with each meal, while women should consume protein-rich foods more frequently to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients. Some examples of this are eggs, fish, or chicken, which are all rich in high-quality proteins. Moreover, these foods tend to be low in calories and high in nutrients, which makes them ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. These experts also suggest that those following a low-carb diet should focus on consuming fewer carbohydrates than usual, while avoiding sugars and processed foods, to further enhance their muscle gain and weight loss potential.
When Should You Stop?
After following a suggested routine for three to four weeks, depending on your current weight and how much you want to lose, you may want to try switching to a different protein supplement. The factors above should help you determine which type of protein powder is best suited for your needs. While there are several studies that show protein powder is extremely effective at increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat, it doesn’t hurt to try a different type of protein supplement if you feel your body isn’t processing it well or if you’ve had a bad experience with a particular brand. Remember, not all protein powders are created equal, and you may need to try several varieties before finding one that works best for you.
As for the general guidelines for how much protein to consume, experts recommend a daily intake of between 25g and 35g per day for those between 18 and 30 years old, between 20g and 30g for adults in their thirties, and between 15g and 25g for those in their fifties. The above amounts should cover the needs of even the most strenuous athletes, while still providing adequate quantities for those just doing their daily exercise. Moreover, if you’re looking for the best tasting and most convenient way to consume the recommended amount of protein, try mixing it into a drink with some fruit. This will undoubtedly enhance the nutrients while also adding some flavour to your day. In the end, everyone’s body is different, and while there’s lots of trial and error, trying out various formulas and food sources, it’s all worth it in the end when you feel satisfied and proud of yourself for making the right choice for your body. Not all supplements are created equal, and not all sources of protein are made equal either – while there’s a lot of research showing that whey protein is effective, there’s also evidence that points to the otherwise. In the end, it’s all about finding out what works best for you and your body, and nothing stops you from trying out new things throughout the course of your journey to attain the body you want. Never stop exploring what works best for you and your body, because the journey isn’t over until you reach your desired destination. That’s when you know you’ve done all you can and it’s now up to nature or fate to decide what will happen next.