Protein Powder 101. I know this may seem like a silly post, but how many of you go to GNC, or the health section of the grocery store, and stare aimlessly at all the different protein powders, wondering which one is right for you? I completely get it! Let me make this easy for you. Read on as I talk about my 3 favorite protein powders, and the different ways I use each, plus what to look for when shopping for your own!
UR RECOVER
Recover is an all-natural whey protein that supports muscle recovery. It is certified grass-fed, non-GMO and hormone-free. Win win! This is the perfect powder for those that workout 4 or more days a week. It is to be drank after your workout in most cases, but is also great for those who need more protein in their diet, or who follow a macro-based diet like myself.
Either way, this is seriously the BEST I have ever had. It comes in both vanilla and chocolate. I love the chocolate. It literally takes like a milkshake-no joke! To make, I mix 8 oz unsweetened Almond Milk and 2 oz water, then shake it! (While singing “I, I, I shake it off!” Griffin gets a kick out of it, haha!)
Extra perk: each bag has a different recipe to integrate your powder into. The vanilla offers a Pancake Recipe (yum) and the chocolate, an Oatmeal Recipe. I’ve made it…ah-mazing.
UR RESTORE
Restore is also an all-natural Casein protein that promotes muscle recovery while you sleep. Crazy right? However, this unique powder is fortified with Tryptophan (yep, thats the same stuff that’s in turkey, and what causes us to be so tired after Thanksgiving dinner) and ZMA (Zinc-Magnesium Aspartate) to support more relaxed muscles, and a deeper, more restful sleep. Who wouldn’t want that?
Seriously, this stuff is my lifesaver. While I typically eat quite clean, I’m still very much have a sweet tooth. This helps curb that. I’ve actually never drank it as a true shake, but what I use it for is the Bed-Time Mug Cake recipe they have on the back of the bag. It’s a oozy-gooey, almond butter, chocolatey goodness right in your coffee mug.
TERA’SWHEY
This Simply Pure whey protein is also non-GMO, grass-fed and has 22 grams of protein-wowza! While this brand also makes a few different chocolate and vanilla options, I love the plain, unflavored version for adding into all sorts of foods, whether it’s baked goods, dips, or my favorite…the 4 Ingredient Protein Pancakes I make almost every morning.
What’s also great about this product, is that it’s sourced right in our own backyard not far from here in Wisconsin. Gotta love that!
How do I know which is right for me?
First determine what you want to use the powder for. People use them for losing weight, gaining weight, build muscle, sports performance or overall health. There is one for everyone!
The most common is Whey protein, which is best used for day-to-day purposes, but mostly after your workout. It boosts your energy levels, and can reduce stress levels too! Soy protein is another option. It helps reduce cholesterol, and can also help build bone mass for those with osteoporosis.
• Build Muscle – Whey
• Lose Weight – Look for no added sweeteners and sugars
• Stay Vegetarian or Vegan – no Whey, choose 100% plant based proteins
• Budget Friendly – buy in tubs or bags vs. the ready-to-drink versions that are more expensive
Looking to learn more about clean eating, and a macro-nutrient diet? Click here. Also, check out Lauren’s guide, and experience with Whole 30 here.
Thanks for stopping by!
xoxo – Laura
