Whey Protein
If you have already read our subsection on understanding what different foods do in the diet section, then you probably already understand what protein does for our bodies. If you have not, feel free to go back and read it or just note that it’s main function when pertaining to exercise is that it is used to repair and build back muscles that have been utilized. Whey protein is simply another source of protein aside from standard foods like chicken that can help you reach your protein intake goals. I personally like taking vanilla flavored isolate protein mixed in a glass of fat free milk. 2 scoops of the whey I use provides 60 grams of protein while only adding 250 calories to my diet which is great as I continue to lose weight and gain muscle. My best advice when choosing a whey protein that works for you is that not all protein is made the same and the amount of grams of protein per serving is not the most important thing. When I first started taking whey I made the mistake of buying whey protein concentrate which contains much more fat, carbs and calories which can be great if you are trying to put on weight, but not as great for someone like me who was in the process of losing weight. The old protein concentrate I used to use only provided 32 grams of protein for 350 calories! The Protein Isolate I use now is 60 grams of protein for only 250 calories. Know which protein is best for your goals and if you are having trouble knowing which one to buy try comparing the amount of total grams per serving versus the amount of protein grams per serving. If the protein grams are very close to the total grams, then it is most likely isolate and will be better if you are trying to watch those carbs and calories.