August 21, 2010 12:45 PM CDT
When selecting a protein supplement their are a few things to consider. Generally protein powder is cheaper than normal meals,faster to make, and you can take with you in a shaker for later. It is important to remember that solid foods are the best for you body to get proper nutrition.
First identify why you need a supplement. If you are trying to gain weight and need more protein in your diet than 60 grams of protein (2 scoops) in a shake daily can help. Alternatively, it you you want nutrition right after a workout, then a meal replacement with 50/50 carbs to protein might be best. Your body needs carbs to force the protein into your muscles.
Second, consider what type of protein is best for you. Their are expensive designer proteins, but other than that the 3 main types are whey, casein, and soy. Soy is mostly for women, whey is considered the norm, and casein is derived from milk and is slow digesting. Drink a shake with casein protein before you go to bed if you are having trouble gaining weight. Your body burns calories while you sleep and you can compensate for the lack of calories during that stretch of 8 hrs with a slow digesting protein.
Those are the basics.
