Protein powders are made from a range of substances – including the cannabis plant hemp – and some are unsuitable for vegans.
As keeping fit and being healthy grows in popularity, buoyed by celebrity endorsements such as Beyoncé's workout range Ivy Park, protein shakes are also enjoying their time in the limelight.
With gym bunnies eager to perfect their honed physiques countless proteins shakes, powders and supplements have hit the market.
Sold in bulk or bar form, gyms are now fully stocked with a range of protein products for those wishing to capitalise on the post-workout window.
Often tailored for personal requirements, the market caters for muscle gain, weight loss or as a dietary supplement.
Shakers can often be spotted in the hands of seasoned gym-goers but protein can be added to smoothies and breakfasts for a boost any time of day.
Protein can be divided into two categories, either made from animals or plants. Vegetable proteins are usually derived from soy, hemp and rice and the former from milk, egg or beef.
ANIMAL PROTEINS:
Whey protein is one of the most common and is used in many types of shakes and powders.
It is said to be the highest quality, best tasting and most economical in terms of cost.
Coming in two forms, concentrate or isolate, it is absorbed quickly by the body making it one of the most popular post-workout shakes.
Dairy protein, sometimes referred to as casein, is broken down much more slowly by the body than whey, fuelling your body for longer.
It is also rich in amino acids, but has less protein ounce for ounce when compared to whey.
Egg white protein has been a tried and tested source popular for years, with numerous films and TV shows often depicting aspiring athletes downing glasses of egg whites as part of training.
While both the yolk and white are protein rich, it is most concentrated in the white. When in powdered form it provides a concentrated supplement high in protein. When ingested minus the yolk, it can provide a low-carb low-fat source of protein.
All the animal proteins are unsuitable for vegans, while whey and casein contain lactose which may be unsuitable for people who are dairy intolerant or who have an allergy.
VEGETABLE PROTEINS:
A range of vegetable-based proteins can also be used to build muscle and not just supplement a diet.
Hemp is part of the cannabis family but contains trace amounts of the psychoactive ingredient THC found in the marijuana plant - what gives the “high” effect - and it completely legal.
Hemp is used in thousands of products such as clothing and cosmetics, and also provides a complete protein containing all of your essential amino acids.
It is easier to digest compared to some other vegetable proteins, and is a popular choice for vegans and people who eat a largely plant-based diet.
Soy protein, made from soybeans, is high in crucial amino acids including some the body cannot make on its own.
Despite being plant-based it is regarded as a high quality protein and lends itself to building muscle mass.
Rice is another good source of protein and is also gluten-free along with hemp and soy, making them a good choice for people with allergies.
Both rice and soy are used as the basis for lactose-alternatives including milk and cream, and can provide a protein boost by ingesting them this way instead of in a concentrated powder form.
All these vegetable proteins, including others such as pea, are suitable for vegans and can be used as a supplement as well as a post-gym muscle building protein source.
Whatever your dietary or fitness goal is be sure to research it thoroughly and ensure you use the correct protein amount for your needs.
