Whether you are trying to gain muscle, bulk up, increase your protein intake or lose weight, protein shakes are a great way to help you achieve your goals. Not only do they come in a wide variety of flavors, they are easy to make and cost effective. The problem is deciding which protein powder is right for you. Most are vegetarian but even vegans can find soy protein powder so the possibilities are endless. Listed below are five different types of protein powder available on the market today.

Whey Concentrate

This is probably the least expensive protein powder on the market because it has fillers which often cause uncomfortable side effects like bloat. So why buy it? If you're a student or someone living on a tight budget, this is probably your best bet especially if you are not lactose intolerant.

Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein isolate contains no lactose thus making it easier to digest. It is a little bit more expensive but worth it since it absorbs quickly, and is low in fat, carbs, and sugarl. A good brand to try is Dymatize. One scoop of vanilla flavored protein powder contains 24 grams of protein and only 106 calories. As with any protein powder, you can mix it with milk, juice or even water.

Casein

This is not the most popular form of protein powder and is actually a foe of vegans; however, it is a great alternative if you like to take your protein powder before you go to sleep. Casein protein powder breaks down over a period of five to seven hours, and is also useful if you are dieting because it fills you up longer.

Soy

This is a fantastic way for vegans and non-vegans alike to get their protein intake. A scoop of Genisoy unflavored protein powder contains a whopping 25 grams of protein, only 120 calories, and no carbs. You will also have the added benefit of helping your cholesterol and speeding your metabolism thanks to the isoflavones found in soy.

Hydrolysate

You might not have ever heard of this one but it is the cream of the crop. Sure it is the most expensive protein powder available, but for good reason. What makes it so special? Hydrolysate is more easily digested and absorbed by the stomach which leads to greater plasma amino acid availability and greater muscle protein synthetic response. In layman's terms, you will have less bloat, feel more energized, and improve your performance while exercising,

So whichever type of protein powder you choose, make sure you enjoy it otherwise what's the point?

Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2423470/the_five_best_types_of_...