Choosing the best Protein Powder for You

I'm not sure how many of you feel about protein powder or protein shakes. But using protein powder/shakes has been an important part of my weight loss and fitness quest. Of course following a well-balanced diet with whole foods is best but there is no reason you can not find healthy protein powders that fit into your meal plan.

There are many different options to choosing the best protein powder. There are so many how do I know which one will work for me? Here are some things to consider:

Purpose: What is your purpose? Do you want to lose weight? If you are a a young man you may want to gain weight/mass. Are you planning on using the powder as a meal replacement or just for snacking? Are you trying just to add protein or is there some other nutrients you are looking for? These are the questions you need to ask yourself.

If you are trying to lose weight you may want to stick with a low carbohydrate/low calorie protein powder. If it is a meal replacement stay in the range of 200-350 calories per shake. If you will be using it as a snack (like after a workout) it is best to stay under 150 calories per serving.

If gaining mass is your goal you may want a high healthy carbohydrate/high calorie protein powder. My teenage boys like using rice protein powder and they blend it with frozen fruit, goat milk and some greens.

Allergies/Food Intolerance: Do you suffer from any food allergies or intolerance? Protein powders get their protein from many sources. Whey is from milk. Some use egg whites or soy.  I myself have an intolerance to cow milk. So I chose plant based powders. Read the labels carefully so you know what you are drinking. I also think it is important to stay away from any preservatives, dyes and artificial sweeteners.

Taste:It is not only important for you to choose a healthy protein powder but you do have to drink it. It is important to chose a protein powder that you will actually drink. Try before you buy. Before you buy a large size container of protein powder ask your local vitamin store or food coop for a sample or trial size. You can also get creative and add frozen fruit, super greens, almond milk or coconut milk to enhance flavor. Just be sure you factor those add-ins to your calorie count.

Cost: How much are you willing to spend on a protein powder? I try to find ways of spending less on a higher quality powder. I look for coupons and special deals. It is also cheaper when buying in bulk. If you chose a cheaper powder just be sure to read the label carefully you don't want bad fillers and unhealthy additives. You get what you pay for  . . . and you are putting it in your body.

Hopefully these tips were helpful. Any questions?

If you currently use a protein powder share with me what you use and tell me what you like about it.

How my Dietbet worked out.

About 4 weeks ago an old highschool friend of mine invited me to an on-line diet bet. One thing you might not know about me is that I hate to gamble. I have been known to cry losing 10 bucks at the casino slots (when dragged there by my sisters). The diet bet seemed different to me. I was already on my fitness quest and I wanted to support my friends and anyone else on their own weight loss journey. I figured if continuing my quest and helping others along the way were my goals I wouldn't mind if I lost $25.

How does the diet bet work? The rules were simple and fun. The price varies depending on the group you choice and the rules vary as well. Here is a link for more details. dietbet

What did I learn doing the dietbet? I learned how important money is people. I realized I worked harder because I did not want to lose my $$. I realized that a little friendly competition goes a long way with me. I learned how to manipulate my weight. This part sort of made with a little nervous. I became a little obsessed with the weight on the scale. I weighted myself more when I was doing the bet. If I had a cheat day and gained 1 pound, the next day I would work-out harder and was more careful about my food. It still worked but it did not seem as healthy. When anyone is losing weight you most remember fad dieting will give you results but you are more likely to gain it back. It is okay if you realize it and get back on focusing on nutrition and fitness.

Would I do another dietbet? I would say yes. It was fun and my group was very supportive. And in the end I won. It wasn't big $$$ but it was 10 pounds of weight loss.

Before
1st day of the dietbet.
175 lbs.

After
Last day of the dietbet.
165 lbs.

This post is dedicated to my all my follow dietbet gals. Especially Michelle Larned who has been such a great support and inspiration.