If you want to build muscle, improve your performance, and get the most out of your hard work in the gym, whey protein is the way to go.
Whey protein powders are made from skim milk and can be easily mass produced (a byproduct of cheese making), hence their abundance and dominance when it comes to protein ingredients.
To help you find a good product, we have researched and compared the best whey protein supplements on the market right now.
10 Best Whey Protein Brands Compared
It’s time to get to know about these products in detail.
The 10 Best Reviewed Protein Supplements for 2020
- Premium blend of whey protein concentrate and isolate, Packed with 27g of freshest whey protein per serving for building strength and enabling muscle growth
- Naturally occurring BCAAs and other EAAs for promoting protein synthesis, speeding up recovery after intense work out, building new muscle and enabling cell recovery
- Loaded with naturally occurring milk calcium for maintaining bone health and for providing better hold for muscles and natural fibre to support healthy metabolism, digestion and gut health
- Its truly “Made in India” whey protein, Manufactured in State of the art plant in Manchar, Pune. Milked, processed and packed within 24 hrs to ensure freshest protein with valuable biological properties retained
- Whey Protein is present with rich amino acids which helps regulate acid levels in the body while supporting the proper functioning of the immune and digestive systems
- WINNER, PRODUCT OF THE YEAR, SPORTS NUTRITION: MuscleBlaze Biozyme Whey Protein won product of the year in the sports nutrition category at the NutraIngredients Award 2021 in Singapore. Testimony of the research, quality & innovation behind the Biozyme series
- INFORMED CHOICE, UK, LABDOOR, USA & TRUSTIFIED- TESTED & CERTIFIED: MuscleBlaze Biozyme Whey Protein has been regularly & rigorously tested, certified by Informed Choice Program U.K., Labdoor USA, Trustified for Accuracy of label Claims (Protein content, no amino spiking) & Purity (free from heavy metals or biological contaminants)
- ENHANCED ABSORPTION FORMULA (EAF): MB Biozyme Performance Whey Protein ensures 50% higher protein absorption & 60% superior BCAA absorption compared to other whey protein supplements. This proprietary formulation of MB is international patent-applied & lowers any possible protein digestion issues
- FIRST CLINICALLY TESTED WHEY PROTEIN IN INDIA: The leading Biozyme range by MuscleBlaze is proven for the efficacy of absorption, having a direct positive impact on muscle-building. The clinical study & its results are available with ICMR's Clinical Trials Registry- India
- SCOOP ON TOP: The "Asia Star" award-winning innovative packaging feature makes it convenient & hygienic to keep & find the scoop right at the top of the jar. No need to search for it inside the protein powder
- 25 g PROTEIN, 11.75 g EAA, 5.51 g BCAA: Biozyme Performance delivers all this per scoop powered by all-imported, highest grade, international quality whey protein concentrate for superior gains. It is available in appetizing flavours - Rich Chocolate, Magical Mango, Chocolate Hazelnut, Kesar Thandi, and French Vanilla Créme
- BOOSTS YOUR PERFORMANCE TO NEXT LEVEL: When compared to others, Atom Whey protein has greater bioavailability, solubility and the highest PDCAA score of 1. The high-quality protein offers 27g protein per serving, 5.7g BCAA, 4.8g glutamine with minimal calories, fat and no sugar. Whether you engage in aerobic or resistance training, Whey protein supplementation helps you get the best out of every workout.
- HIGH CONCENTRATION OF BCAA: The high concentration of BCAAs in Atom Whey Protein help promote anabolic response by maximizing muscle protein synthesis, helps preserve muscle glycogen stores, and minimize protein breakdown. BCAAs reduce the amount of tryptophan and the amount of serotonin produced, eventually allowing you to make more gains.
- AUTHENTIC & QUALITY ASSURED: Atom Whey Protein is 100% authentic and goes through stringent analysis before it finally reaches the customers. It is manufactured at an FSSAI approved and GMP certified manufacturing plant. The supplement includes the best ever blend of Whey protein concentrate and Whey protein isolate to boost your power within and promote optimal gains. The product allows you to validate the authenticity before opening the seal.
- IDEAL PROTEIN FOR EVERYONE: The 100% vegetarian, easy, & convenient AtomWhey protein supplement has an edge over other protein supplements in terms of fueling the muscle tissue. Whey serves as a mainstay protein not only for those interested in building muscle mass but also for those who turn to dietary protein to fill the protein gaps in a varied diet. The deliciously flavoured Whey fits all and comes with an enzyme blend to facilitate faster assimilation of Whey.
- AMPS MUSCLE SYNTHESIS & MUSCLE RECOVERY: Strength training causes micro-tears in muscle fibres, which trigger inflammation and the body’s repair process. Whey digests faster than other forms of protein meaning that the body is able to receive the essential amino into the muscles at a faster rate, resulting in faster overall recovery. Consuming Whey within 30 minutes of exercise increases the body’s ability to stimulate protein synthesis & reduce muscle soreness.
- Clean, lean, 80% protein machine!
- The cleanest, most easily digestible protein ever made
- 26g protein per scoop, 6.4g BCAA, 12.6g EAA
- Made with whey protein concentrate, bromelain and sunflower lecithin. That’s all!
- More importantly, made without any added flavours, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, gums, thickeners, anti-caking agents, anti-foaming agents, amino-spiking agents, heavy mental contamination, adulterants or doping agents of any kind whatsoever. Phew!
- We source our whey protein from Ireland - from one of the largest, most credible manufacturers of whey in the world!
- Premium Gold Whey delivers 25g of protein per serving to help build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training
- Versatile and Delicious: Premium Gold Whey combines a premium, fully disclosed whey protein isolate blend and a delicious flavor that is second to none.
- Anytime formula – great before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein
- ProHydrolase Enzyme Technology - It is a bio-sufficent supplement designed to build muscle mass and accelerate muscle recovery when used as an ingredient in protein supplements.
- Direction To Use - Mix 1 sccop (1 Serving) with 250 ml of cold water in a shaker.
- PROMOTES MUSCLE BUILDING: Gain Lean Muscles Like Never Before, With Asitis Nutrition Whey Protein. In Its Natural, Raw Form, Whey Protein Is Ideal For Those Who Love An Intense Workout As It Boosts Recovery And Reduces Muscle Loss.In Its Natural, Raw Form, Whey Protein Is Ideal For Those Who Love An Intense Workout As It Boosts Recovery And Reduces Muscle Loss.
- LIMITED PROCESSING: Asitis Nutrition Whey Protein Powder Has Been Minimally Processed To Ensure You Get Maximum Protein And Nutrients, As Preserved In Their Original Form. You Get Only Clean And Pure Powder, Without Any Fillers Or Preservatives.
- HIGH PROTEIN CONCENTRATE: Each Serving Of 30G Contains 24G Protein And 5.4G Bcaa, Which Makes It Very Effective For Muscle Gain And Synthesis
- As Whey Protein Concentrate is unflavoured in nature, it may not taste great. However, it gives you the freedom to add the flavor of your choice.
- NAKPRO IMPACT WHEY is a blend of Whey Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate & Milk Solids with Digestive Enzymes, delivering an impressive 24g of protein per serve for fast absorption and quick nutrient delivery to support muscle gains and aid in post-workout recovery.
- ABUNDANT BCAA & EAA: Impact Whey Protein boost the highest NATURALLY occurring BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) and EAA (Essential Amino Acids), with 4.95 g of BCAAs and 10.35 g of EAAs per serving, ensuring a superior amino acid profile to optimize muscle development.
- SUPPORTS MUSCLE HEALTH: As we age, it’s important to consume high quality complete proteins, like Impact Whey Protein help to support optimal muscle health. Specially formulated for bodybuilders, weight training athletes, fitness champions and gym enthusiasts, build lean muscles, boost recovery, and reduce muscle loss.
- APPETIZING FLAVOURS: Nakpro Impact Whey is available in delectable flavours like Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Cream, Vanilla & Chocolate-Double Rich. Taste with the goodness of delicious drink to conquer fitness goals with ease.
Which Is Better: Whey, Casein, or Plant-Based Protein?
1.Whey protein
Whey protein is probably the most popular protein powder today. whey is one of two milk proteins — the other being casein.
Because whey protein is easily digested and absorbed by your body, it is often taken after a workout to build and regenerate muscle.
While many studies support the conventional uses of whey protein for building muscle, many others suggest that it can also help with weight loss.
A review of nine studies found that overweight or obese people who were supplemented with whey protein lost more weight and gained more muscle mass than those who did not.
The same review found that whey protein users also experienced significant improvements in blood pressure, glycemic control, and cholesterol levels.
These weight loss benefits are primarily based on whey protein’s ability to decrease your appetite so you can feel fuller throughout the day.
2. Casein protein
Casein, the other protein in milk, is digested much more slowly than whey, but it shares many of its weight loss properties.
Casein protein curdles when exposed to stomach acids. This means that it takes a long time for your body, usually 6 to 7 hours, to digest and absorb it.
However, the slow digestion rate of casein can help you eat less by decreasing your appetite.
In one study, 32 men consumed a carbohydrate or casein drink, whey, egg, or pea protein 30 minutes before a meal without restrictions. The researchers found that casein had the greatest impact on fullness and resulted in the least calorie intake.
However, not all studies agree.
In another study, people who ate whey protein from the buffet 90 minutes before dinner were less hungry and had fewer calories than those who ate casein.
These results suggest that casein can only be superior to whey protein when taken 30 minutes before a meal instead of 90 minutes. However, more research is needed to compare casein to whey and other protein powders.
Casein is also a great source of calcium.
For example, this Casein Protein Powder from Optimum Nutrition contains 60% of your Daily Value for calcium per scoop (34 grams).
Several observational studies have linked higher calcium intake with lower body weight, although this effect has not yet been seen in randomized controlled trials, the gold standard of scientific evidence.
3. Soy protein
Soy protein is one of the few proteins of plant origin that contains the nine essential amino acids necessary for human health.
As such, it is a high-quality protein source that will appeal to vegans or those who cannot tolerate milk proteins.
It has been shown to affect appetite.
In one study, men were given pizza one hour after consuming whey, soy or protein protein.
Although whey protein was associated with the greatest appetite reductions, soy was more effective than egg white protein in reducing appetite and reducing the number of calories consumed.
Soy protein has also been shown to benefit women.
In a randomized study, postmenopausal women consumed 20 grams of a soy protein or casein drink per day for three months.
This is the same amount of soy protein found in one scoop of EAS soy protein powder.
Those who consumed soy lost more abdominal fat than those who drank casein, although the differences were not significant.
Similarly, another study in men and women found that soy protein was comparable to other types of protein used for weight loss when used as part of a low-calorie meal replacement program.
4. Fiber-enriched protein
Plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and grains are the best sources of fiber.
Some of the benefits of getting enough fiber in your diet include normalizing bowel movements, lowering cholesterol, controlling blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, and achieving a healthy weight.
As with protein, fiber has been shown to reduce food intake, and therefore body weight.
Unfortunately, making plant-based protein powder removes much, if not all, of the fiber.
However, some plant-based mixed protein powders are fortified with fiber. These products combine various protein sources such as peas, rice, chia seeds, and chickpeas.
Together, protein and fiber create a synergistic effect that supports weight loss more than the individual ingredients.
Look for mixed plant protein blends that contain more than 5 grams of fiber per serving.
For example, each 43-gram scoop of Garden of Life Fit Meal Replacement contains 28 grams of protein from various plant sources and 9 grams of fiber.
Similarly, this Orgain protein powder contains 21 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per two scoops (46 grams).
How Much Protein Powder Should You Eat to Lose Weight?
As you now know, you don’t need to eat protein powder to lose weight, but doing so can make the process easier. The next logical question, then, is how much protein powder is too much?
One thing to keep in mind when trying to lose weight is that whole foods are generally going to be more filling and nutrient dense than supplements, including protein powders and bars. Thus, a good rule of thumb is to get no more than about 30 to 40% of your total daily protein needs from protein powder and bars.
Using myself as an example again, if I’m aiming to eat around 175 grams of protein per day to lose weight, I’d want to get no more than about 50 to 70 grams of that from protein powder, or about two to four scoops per day.
There’s nothing unhealthy about eating more protein powder than this, per se, but if you need to get more than a quarter of your total protein needs from supplements every day, it’s a red flag you may need to put more effort into proper meal planning.
Summary: You can get anywhere from zero to 40% of your total daily protein intake from protein powder. Eating more than this isn’t necessarily unhealthy, but you’ll have an easier time losing weight if you get most of your protein from whole foods.
Matching a powder to your needs
Here are some general guidelines, based on the outcomes you’re looking for:
Build muscle
For muscle growth, choose a protein powder with a high biological value (a value that measures how well the body can absorb and utilize a protein). Whey protein and whey isolates are your best options.
Lose weight
For weight loss, choose shakes with no added sugars or dextrins/maltodextrins (sweeteners made from starch). Don’t choose those with added branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), as they help promote muscle growth and weight gain.
Stay vegetarian or vegan
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t choose milk-based protein shakes (like whey, milk proteins); instead use 100% plant proteins-soy, pea, hemp.
Go low-sugar with diabetes
Patients who have diabetes should choose protein shakes without added sugar (don’t choose protein powders with sugar listed as one of the first three ingredients). It’s also best to look for a shake that’s low in carbohydrates ( 5-15 grams per serving).
Limit protein for kidney disease
People with kidney disease can’t tolerate a lot of protein at one time. Stick with powders that have a lower-range protein content (10 to 15 grams per serving).
Avoid gastrointestinal problems
Patients with irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance should choose powders that don’t contain lactose sugars, artificial sweeteners or dextrins/maltodextrins. If you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, don’t choose powders that contain gluten.
Stick to your budget
To save money, buy tubs of protein powder instead of ready-to-drink protein shakes, which are more expensive because they’re convenient.
Get the most from your protein powder
Here are a few things to consider:
To recover after exercise, an athlete or avid exerciser should consume protein within 60 minutes of a workout. That’s when your muscles are most responsive to the use of protein for the repair and growth process.
To control your weight, it’s best to consume a steady supply of protein at each meal and snack to help keep you full.
Although there’s no magic number for how much protein to consume at one time, it’s best to aim for at least 3 ounces or 20 grams of protein per meal.
Boost the taste of your shakes
“Each protein powder has a unique taste, depending on the ingredients and protein source,” says Patton. “A lot of companies use fillers or flavor enhancers designed by food scientists to create flavors beyond the standard vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.”
To improve the taste of the protein shakes you make, mix your protein powders with milk or a milk alternative (as opposed to water) to produce a creamier milkshake-like texture.
Create your own flavor enhancers by mixing in one serving of fruit or even a tablespoon of peanut butter.
The bottom line
Many people use protein powders to build muscle, but it can also benefit your weight loss goals.
Whey, casein, and egg proteins, as well as plant sources like soybeans and peas, are great options for people looking to lose weight.
Some of these protein powders are fortified with ingredients like caffeine and fiber that can also help you lose weight.
While these products can help you lose weight, you will get the best results when used in conjunction with a well-balanced, low-calorie diet and exercise routine.
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