No matter what kind of supplement you’re buying (yes, protein powder is a supplement) know that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate it. So, basically, a protein powder manufacturer can put a whole bunch of ineffective (or, worse yet, dangerous) ingredients into a tub of the stuff and sell it slapped with a bunch of false promises.
Supplements can, and have been known to, contain banned substances (anabolic agents, stimulants, etc.) that can get you kicked off the team, undisclosed ingredients (caffeine, witch hazel, etc.) that may be harmful if you’re on medication, and/or false promises to “cure,” “treat,” or “lessen” disorders/diseases.
That’s why you should always look for a protein powder that carries a third-party certification from the likes of a legit testing service, such as the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), USP, or Informed Choice.
When shopping for a certified whey protein powder, there are several other factors that you should consider to ensure that you are choosing a high-quality product that meets your specific needs. Some important factors to consider include:
Protein content: Look for a powder with a high protein content, ideally over 20 grams per serving. All products included in the list above contain a minimum of 20 grams of protein per serving.
Type of whey: Whey protein comes in three main forms: whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and whey protein hydrolysate. Whey protein isolate and hydrolysate are more processed and have a higher protein content, but they also tend to be more expensive.
Additives and Sweeteners: Some whey protein powders contain additives and sweeteners that you might be looking to avoid, such as artificial sweeteners and colors, soy, or gluten. Generally, the less ingredients, the better.
Flavor: Consider the flavor of the powder, this is one of the biggest factors that will impact whether you actually consume it or not. After all, meeting your protein needs shouldn’t be a gag-worthy experience. We recommend reading reviews on any specific flavor you’re shopping, or buying the smallest amount available to try first.
Price: Compare prices between different brands and types of whey protein to find the best value for your money. Keep in mind that higher-priced powders may offer higher protein content and fewer additives, but that’s not always the case.
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