Ultimate Muscle-Building Supplements: The Best Protein Powders in India (Are They?)

Are you looking to build muscle and gain strength? 🤔 Discover the ultimate guide to protein powders in India! We've compared the top brands and ingredients to help you choose the best supplement for your fitness goals. 💪 From whey isolates to plant-based options, find which protein powder is right for you. 🔥

Best Protein Powders in India

The Indian market has a range of protein powders to suit different needs. Here are some popular options:

1. Muscle Blaze Whey Protein Concentrate:

A popular choice among fitness enthusiasts, Muscle Blaze offers a variety of whey protein powders with different flavours and added nutrients.

Pros: Quality-tested ingredients, no added sugars or preservatives

Cons: Whey protein concentrate may be hard to digest for some people. It can have more lactose and may not suit people with lactose intolerance.

Nutrition Facts: 1 Scoop (34g)

Protein: 24 g

Energy: 135 cal

Carbohydrates: 16.9g

Added Sugars: 0g

2. Isopure Whey Protein Isolate: 

It is a premium protein supplement that offers a pure and concentrated source of whey protein.

Pros: Whey protein isolate is easier to digest than concentrate. Low-carb, lactose-free option. Gum Arabic and xanthan gum in the ingredients can have some prebiotic effects (1, 2, 3). Tested for banned substances (NADA/WADA).

Cons: Expensive, INS 150d (added natural colourant) can cause issues if you have a sulfite allergy. Moreover, it has sucralose, a zero-calorie sweetener. Sucralose can cause weight gain in some (4). Studies show that eating sucralose for 6 months can affect the gut microbiota (5, 6). It can lead to dysbiosis or leaky gut syndrome (7, 8). It also increases insulin levels (9). Therefore, it is not a great choice if you have diabetes.

Nutrition Facts: 1 scoop (30.5 g)

Protein: 25g

Energy: 115 Kcal

Carbs: 1 g

Added Sugars: 0 g

3. Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder:

It is a popular supplement among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Here is a breakdown of its nutritional pros and cons.

Pros: It blends whey protein isolate, concentrate and hydrolysate. It is low in carbohydrates and has 5g of BCAAs, essential for muscle protein synthesis.

Cons: It has INS950, a harmful artificial sweetener. This is commonly known as Acesulfame potassium or AcesulfameK (Ace-K). However, Ace-K has recently gotten a bad rep for its link with various health issues. This includes weight gain (10,11, 12), cognitive dysfunction in animal studies (13), changes in gut microbiota (14,15,16) and even increasing the risk of cancer (17). However, some studies suggest, that it may not cause cancer (18). Therefore, avoiding products with acesulfame K is better, until we have more clarity.

Nutrition Facts: 1 scoop (30.4g)

Protein: 24g

Energy: 117 kcal

Carbs: 3g

Added Sugars: 0g

There are different types of protein powders in the market. Knowing the types will help you to choose the right one.

Types of Protein Powders

• Whey Protein: Made from milk, whey protein is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is rapidly absorbed by the body. Therefore, whey protein is often recommended for muscle growth and recovery (19).

• Casein Protein: Another milk-based protein, casein is digested slowly. Casein provides a sustained release of amino acids (20). This makes it a popular choice for individuals seeking overnight muscle recovery.

• Plant-Based Protein: For vegetarians and vegans, plant-based protein powders like pea protein, soy protein, and rice protein offer excellent alternatives. These powders are often hypoallergenic and provide a complete amino acid profile.

• Egg Protein: It is a high-quality protein source that is easily digestible. It is often used with other protein powders for a balanced amino acid profile.

Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss

Protein can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing cravings and overeating. When you are on a low-calorie diet, protein powders can support weight loss. Look for protein powders with zero added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Best Protein Powders for Weight Gain

If you are trying to gain weight, protein powders are a good option. They add calories and help build muscle mass. Choose protein powders with added carbohydrates or fats to increase calorie intake.

Protein Powders for Gut Health

Some protein powders contain probiotics or digestive enzymes that can support gut health. These ingredients can help improve digestion, reduce bloating, and support a healthy gut microbiome.

How to Choose the Right Protein Powder

When selecting a protein powder, consider the following factors:

• Protein Content: Look for a powder with a high protein content per serving.

• Flavor: Choose a flavour you enjoy like vanilla or chocolate.

• Added Ingredients: Check for added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and unhealthy fats.

• Allergens: If you have allergies or sensitivities, look for allergen advice on the label.

• Budget: Set a budget and choose a protein powder that fits within your price range.

How to Use Protein Powder?

Protein powders can be easily added to your daily diet. Here are some popular ways to consume them:

• Smoothies: Blend protein powder with fruits, vegetables, and liquids like water or milk.

• Baked Goods: Add protein powder to pancakes, waffles, or muffins for a nutritional boost.

• Oatmeal: Mix protein powder with oatmeal for a hearty and satisfying breakfast.

• Yoghurt: Add protein powder to yoghurt for a creamy and protein-packed snack.

• Protein Shakes: Combine protein powder with water, milk, or a plant-based milk alternative for a quick and convenient protein boost.

  
  

How Much Protein Does Your Body Absorb?

This is the million-dollar question. What happens to the expensive protein powder that you take every day? Can the entire protein be utilised in an hour?

This depends on the type of protein. 10g of whey protein gets absorbed in an hour (21, 22). Since casein is a slow digesting protein only 6.1 g is absorbed per hour. Egg white protein is even slower at 3g/hour (24). Hence, it is better to choose the right type of protein. Additionally, spread your protein intake throughout the day, to make the best use of it.

Does Whey Protein Cause Acne?

Many people wonder if whey protein can cause or increase acne. Some studies show that whey protein can cause acne since it is dairy-based (25). However, it varies from person to person.

Remember: While protein powders can be a valuable addition to your diet, they should not replace whole, unprocessed foods. Consult with a nutritionist for a personalised nutrition plan. Book a free initial consultation with us to find the right nutrition plan.