They’re also popular among people interested in supplementing their diet due to dietary restrictions or simply adding a healthy source of protein to it. Protein powders are popular choices for fitness enthusiasts looking to build and strengthen muscle while improving athletic performance. If you’re using protein powder to improve your athletic performance or endurance, when to consume protein powder largely depends on your overall fitness goals ( 16).įor example, for muscle building, it’s recommended to consume protein powder within 2 hours after your weightlifting session ( 17).Įating moderate amounts of protein throughout the day may also help prevent muscle loss in older adults ( 18).įinally, some research suggests that taking protein powder before you go to sleep may help your muscles recover overnight ( 19). If you want to lose weight, you can also try incorporating more high protein foods throughout the day, as studies show that increasing your intake of protein could help reduce appetite and cravings ( 15). You may want to have one large portion or several small portions of protein per day. The best time to take protein powder depends on your health goals. For example, you can use protein powder in soups, veggie burgers, and baked goods. If you feel like getting creative, experiment with using protein powder as an addition or substitution in your usual recipes. You can also mix protein powder into simple foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, or dips. The simplest way is to mix it with a beverage, such as water or milk, or blend it with other ingredients, such as fruits and veggies, to create a smoothie. Still, supplements can be an easy and convenient way to increase your protein intake, as there are many ways to use protein powder. Keep in mind that protein powder should not be used to replace healthy sources of protein in your diet, because high protein foods also provide other valuable nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here are the 15 best protein powders by type. All the products included have been vetted to ensure that they meet Healthline’s medical and business standards. We included options to suit a variety of budgets. The protein powders listed below have mostly positive online reviews. All the products included are third-party tested for quality, accuracy, and purity. We looked for products that are made from high quality ingredients and contain minimal amounts of added sugars and artificial additives. We chose the best protein powders based on the following criteria: Protein powders are also sourced from different ingredients, some of which may be better suited for specific needs than others. While the vast number of protein powders on the market can make the task of choosing one daunting, it also means there are probably several options that will be a good fit for you. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or build muscle, protein powder can be a convenient and easy way to increase your protein intake.