I tried several differed brands of premixed protein drinks that are on the market and only found one that I could drink, and only one flavor of theirs, but it was expensive so I decided to start making my own. Then I had to study what was available and the different sizes. There weren't many that came in smaller sampling sizes. The first one that I bought was a flavored latte with caffeine equal to 4 oz. of coffee in each scoop. I was only able to drink that for about a week, before I gave up on it and ordered an unflavored one that was highly rated and I've been very happy with.
The other problem that I ran into was some of the brands didn't list how many scoops were in their container so I had no idea how long it would last.
Contents
- 1 Calculating how much Protein you need
- 2 Protein Powders
- 2.1 What is Protein Powder Made of
- 2.2 Isolate or Not
- 2.3 Flavored or Unflavored
- 2.4 Collagen Peptides
- 4 References
Calculating how much Protein you need[]
Protein powders are not just for body builders, everyone needs a certain amount of protein daily and it is even more important for those of us with diabetes. Your first meal of the day can often be a challenge especially for those that don't like to cook or don't have time before heading off for the day. That is where a protein drink can be a life saver. The days of grabbing a bowl of cereal are over for most of us or just a bagel and cream cheese. If you currently are drinking smoothie for breakfast, try adding a scoop of unflavored protein powder to it to help you get those grams of protein in. Protein will also give you substainable energy, it isn't a quick rush like sugar and carbs, but it is longer lasting. (see: Protein Drink recipes)
To find out how many grams a day you should have, use one of the internet calculators. Here are a few different ones, you can see that they all very a lot. It will also depend upon how active you are.
I like the first one the best because it lists the sources with the results.
Protein Powders[]
What is Protein Powder Made of[]
- Whey
- Just like the nursery rhyme about curds and whey, it is a milk based product.
- Vegan
- These are made from a variety of plant based proteins. According to the reviews they do usually have a flavor to them. Some are from a group of Superfoods, Peas, and Soy
Isolate or Not[]
You will see some protein powders are listed with "Isolate" in the title. Those are slightly more expensive and all it means is that they were refined additional times to remove fats and carbs. But when you compare the nutritional differences by the same brand, they really aren't that much more fat and carbs in the non-Isolate ones. Just read the labels before you decide.
Flavored or Unflavored[]
That is the question, it really is personal preference. The unflavored can be mixed with more things without impacting the taste that you are use to. But if you choose to get a flavored one, be sure and check the label to find out if there is any sugar or sugar substitute and what kind. And of course check the carbs.
Collagen Peptides[]
What the heck is this? That was my first thought when I saw some protein powders that contain collagen peptides. I've also seen it in recipes at some of the Keto recipe websites.
Before understanding what "Collagen Peptides" are, you need to understand Collagen and how your body needs it and what happens as you age.
As we age, our collagen breaks down at a faster rate, compounded by decreased production, so it's important to be mindful of our collagen intake. While this is important for overall body health, there are many specific benefits that people may pursue. For instance, healthy collagen levels help maintain healthy hair, skin, bones and joints. However, more research is needed to understand how effectively collagen supplements help repair tissue (cnet.com, Collagen vs. Collagen Peptides[1].)
“Collagen peptides are a supplement that can help your body replace its lost collagen,” Czerwony says. They’re a small, easily digestible form of collagen, a protein that occurs naturally in your body (health.clevelandclinic.org, Everything You Should Know About Collagen Peptides[2].)
Sounds great doesn't it? Just what I need as I age, but then I research further and I'm still hung up on the source, but am working on overcoming that particular hang up. They are made from the hide of cows! Of course you will see some products listed as from grass-feed or organic feed cows. There is no vegan source that I've seen.
Find out more at Everything You Should Know About Collagen Peptides.
Comments, Ratings & Questions[]
Have you made this recipe? or Read this Guide? What do you think about it?
Have a question? Please post it in the comments below.
Please leave comments at the bottom of page in the comments section, along with any questions or suggestions for changes to the recipe that others may want to try.
