What Protein Powder is Right for You?

Protein powder is one of the easiest ways to supplement your daily protein intake. But not all protein powders are created equal.

A few of my favorite protein powders and supplements are pumpkin seed protein, whey protein and collagen, watermelon seed protein, and marine collagen.

Pumpkin Seed Protein

This pumpkin seed derivative contains a complete amino acid profile and omega fatty acids. Plus, these seeds are high in zinc (an insulin and hormone balancer) and low in fat. Pumpkin seed protein powder is ideal for fat-malabsorbed individuals, vegans, and vegetarians or those struggling with hormonal balance.

Pumpkin seed protein is a clean, plant-based option that tends to sit well with sensitive stomachs. Beyond the complete amino acid profile, the zinc content is worth noting since zinc plays a role in hormone and immune health. For a dairy-free, organic protein powder, it's one of my favorites.

Organic Whey Protein and Collagen

Whey protein isolate powder is a favorite for those looking to build muscle, because it is one of the most bioavailable forms of natural protein and contains branched-chain amino acids, an amino specifically linked to increasing muscle mass. But… buyer beware. Always make sure bovine proteins are sourced from organic, pasture raised and fed cows, or better yet, goats. Also if you have a high histamine load, opt for another protein source.

Whey isolate is the most filtered form where most of the lactose and fat have been removed. This makes it ideal for those following a low carb diet or who have issues with lactose intolerance. It’s also popular among those who want muscle gain whey protein powder. It contains the most studied BCAAs leucine, isoleucine and valine that promote muscle protein synthesis. For muscle recovery after training, whey isolate is one of the most studied whey protein powders.

Watermelon Seed Protein

This unconventional protein source is a hidden gem. Watermelon seeds are not only an excellent source of protein, but contain a spectrum of B vitamins and magnesium, making this a protein powder for muscle recovery.  Like, pumpkin seed protein, watermelon seed protein is also good for fat-malabsorbed individuals, vegans, and vegetarians, as well people who tend toward muscle cramping or anxiety and need a magnesium boost.

Marine Collagen

Vital Proteins makes an excellent wild-caught marine collagen that I suggest to clients who cannot tolerate bovine collagen. Because this clean protein powder is harvested from fish bones and scales - rich in calcium phosphate - it can be mineralizing to the body. Again, avoid if you have high histamine.

Simple Ways to Use Your Protein Powder

Here’s my favorite trick. The easiest way to add protein powder to your diet is to add a scoop to something that you’re already drinking or eating. A protein smoothie with protein powder is the classic, but there are plenty of ways to work it in: - Make a protein smoothie with protein powder, fruit, and a handful of greens. - Mix protein powder into oats or overnight oats for a protein-rich breakfast. - Add a scoop of protein powder to coffee for a morning pick-me-up. - Whisk it into a protein pancake batter. - Mix it into a shake with your favorite milk or plant-based milk. For hot drinks, I recommend starting with half a scoop and whisking it well. Protein powder and oats or coffee can clump if you don’t give them time to mix properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isolate protein powder?

Isolate means that most of the fat, carbs and lactose have been removed so there is a larger amount of protein per scoop. Isolate is preferred by many because it is more easily digested and one of the most bioavailable sources of protein. Concentrate is also popular if you don’t have any lactose intolerance and prefer a less refined product. Either way it depends on what you are trying to achieve and how your body reacts.

Can protein powder go bad?

Can protein powder go bad? Yes, it does! Most protein powders have a best-by date and stay good for a while past it when sealed. But, you shouldn't use it if it smells bad, tastes bitter, has clumped together or looks discolored. Make sure to keep your protein powder stored in a sealed container in a cool and dry place, and always use a clean and dry scoop.

What are the benefits of pumpkin seed protein powder?

Pumpkin seed protein is a clean, plant-based option containing a complete amino acid profile and omega fatty acids. It is high in zinc, which plays a role in hormone and immune health, and it is low in fat. It tends to sit well with sensitive stomachs and is dairy-free and organic. Village Green considers it ideal for fat-malabsorbed individuals, vegans and vegetarians, or those struggling with hormonal balance.

Is whey protein isolate good for building muscle?

Whey protein isolate is a favorite for those looking to build muscle because it is one of the most bioavailable forms of natural protein and contains branched-chain amino acids linked to increasing muscle mass. It holds the most studied BCAAs, leucine, isoleucine and valine, which promote muscle protein synthesis. For muscle recovery after training, it is one of the most studied whey protein powders. Choose organic, pasture-raised sources, and avoid it with a high histamine load.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.