Protein supplements are some of the most popular supplements on the planet.
People use them for a variety of reasons, including to build muscle, lose weight or simply improve their overall health and wellness.
However, many people wonder about the best time to take them.
This article explains when the best time to take protein is, depending on your health goals.
When it comes to essential nutrients, protein sits atop the list.
It’s a jack of all trades with many roles in the body. Protein is a source of energy, can help repair damaged tissue, is essential for growth and plays a role in preventing infection and disease (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
Protein is naturally abundant in foods like meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, grains, seeds and legumes. It is also available as a dietary supplement, commonly known as protein powder.
Here are some of the most well-known protein powders you can buy.
Whey protein: A dairy-based protein. It contains all the essential amino acids and is quickly absorbed (3Trusted Source).
Casein protein: A dairy-based protein. It contains all the essential amino acids and is slowly absorbed, which is why people often take it before bed (4Trusted Source).
Soy protein: A plant-based protein that contains all the essential amino acids. It has also been linked to some impressive health benefits (5Trusted Source).
Pea protein: A plant-based protein. It has low levels of the nonessential amino acids cysteine and methionine (6).
Rice protein: A plant-based protein with low levels of the essential amino acid lysine (7Trusted Source).
Hemp protein: A plant-based protein made from hemp seeds that has high levels of fiber and essential omega-3 and omega-6 fats. Hemp protein is low in the amino acid lysine (8Trusted Source).
Protein powders are a useful way to increase your protein intake if you’re always on the go. They are convenient, portable and come in a variety of flavors.