“It’s hard for me to get all of my protein without using protein powder.”
One of the most common issues we hear! But is this really an issue? Absolutely not!
Protein powder IS A FOOD! It is referred to as a supplement and ideally it should only supplement a whole foods diet, however, if it works for you, I see no issues here!
You are not "taking" protein like you "take a multi-vitamin", you ARE consuming a food! It can be consumed in any way, shape, form and amount as long as you feel good doing so.
The ONLY issue we find with relying on protein powder or ready to drink shakes for a good portion of your daily protein intake is that it is not as satiating as whole food protein sources.
Not all protein powders are created equally, so it is a good idea to make sure you’re getting a mix of them to ensure you’re getting adequate amino acids across the board.
Animal protein powders have an ideal amino acid split.
Plant based protein powders are commonly lacking in some specific amino acids, particularly leucine. There are sources that contain an adequate amount of all amino acids, so it’s even more important to vary your sources.
So what’s the best way to consume it?
Anyway you want to!
Recipes for normally carb-heavy foods swapping flour for protein powder have become extremely popular! Protein pancakes, protein muffins, protein bread, protein pasta, protein mac n cheese.. You name it, it’s probably been recreated using protein powder. If you enjoy the taste and texture of these foods, by all means.. Bake away!
Also, there is absolutely nothing wrong with just having a plain and simple protein shake with your meal, before a meal, after a meal, in between meals, etc. It doesn’t have to be made fancy, they all are pretty tasty and you can find one that will please just about anyone’s palate and preferences. Whey, beef, egg white, plant varieties, in all sorts of flavors, sweetened, unsweetened, grass-fed, raw, and so on…
Another fun way to add it into your diet is to use it in place of coffee creamer!
Mix it up with milk or water and use with cereal or oatmeal.
It is so versatile! Don’t shy away from it, it’s a great option!