There are several types of protein powder on the market, each of which may be a better choice in specific situations. For instance, soy protein powder may be the best choice for improving cardiovascular health due to its chemical composition and the fact that it's low in cholesterol and saturated fats. Protein powders are generally recognized as safe when consumed as directed; however, it's best to consult your doctor prior to taking any type of protein supplement.
Post-Workout
One of the most important times to ingest a good amount of high-quality protein is immediately following a workout. Exercise can damage and cause trauma to muscle tissue, and protein helps to repair, maintain and build new muscle tissue. It's important to consume a protein that will be absorbed quickly. Whey protein is one of the fastest-absorbed proteins and makes a good choice for a post-workout drink. According to McKinley Health Center, 20 g to 25 g of whey protein per day is usually enough to get results.
Overnight
If you're a serious weightlifter, consuming a protein-rich meal before you go to bed should be a priority. That's because your body is in a fasting mode between dinner of the previous night and breakfast of the following morning -- this can be more than a 12-hour period. The best protein in this case would be a slow-absorbing protein that will keep a steady flow of amino acids reaching your muscles as you sleep. Two protein powders that tend to absorb much more slowly compared to whey are casein and egg powders.
Cardiovascular Health
While animal-based protein powders contain levels of saturated fat and cholesterol -- both bad for cardiovascular health -- plant-based protein powders offer a healthier alternative. Soy protein is derived from soybeans and contains little or no saturated fat and cholesterol. Dr. Virginia Uhley, Ph.D, R.D., of the University of Michigan mentions soy protein as the only protein, as of June 2011, that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as an effective treatment for reducing the risk of heart disease.
Biological Value
When evaluating which protein is the best overall choice, you may want to consider the biological value of the various protein powders. The biological value, or BV, of a protein is a measure of how well it is digested, absorbed and utilized by your body. The protein with the highest biological value on the planet is whey protein isolate. According to Bodybuilding.com, whey protein isolate can have a BV as high as 157. Compare this to the BV of red meat at 80, and milk at 91.
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