(However, this will not apply to all grass-fed products, as the FDA does not regulate the "100% grass-fed" label claim or its definition.) This is a step up from grain-fed cow products, which, although illegal, have been found to contain residual antibiotics. Not to mention, most certified 100% grass-fed cows (like American Grassfed) are not treated with antibiotics. Besides toning your body, these two sources of dietary fat will also improve the absorption of key vitamins and carotenoids, which are fat-soluble nutrients. You'll get even more of these nutrients when your powder is made from pasture-fed cows, which have a higher concentration of inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids and two to five times more CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) than their corn and grain fed counterparts, according to a Nutrition Journal study.ĬLA provides a variety of health benefits like burning fat and maintaining lean muscle mass. Low-temperature-processing methods allow the protein powder to retain many of its fragile immune factors and nutrients, leaving it loaded with the ideal blend of easily-absorbed amino acids, anti-inflammatory compounds, essential fats, energy-replenishing carbs, metabolism-boosting peptides, potent antioxidants, and alkaline minerals. While a whey protein concentrate has a lower percentage of protein than whey isolate, it contains more bioactive compounds found in the milk fat that positively influences metabolism and immunity-just make sure it's low-temperature-processed (raw or cold-processed). If you want a fast-acting best protein powder that will stimulate protein synthesis after a workout, go with whey.
While feeding your muscles on the fly has never been easier, not all powders are created equal, and choosing which product is best can be a bit of a struggle.
A protein powder shake or smoothie can be a nutritious meal replacement when blended with fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.