Protein Supplements

Comprehensive Guide to Protein Supplements in Canada

Although once reserved solely for bodybuilders and professional athletes, protein supplements have gained widespread popularity. If you are looking to gain muscle mass, lose weight, optimize body composition (fat loss), and increase protein intake while improving your overall health, you may be interested in these supplements. There's plenty of research that shows boosting protein intake can help optimize health in many ways. 

While protein is abundantly found in food like meat, fish, nuts and seeds, legumes and beans, eggs and dairy products, the majority of people can still benefit from protein supplementation. Protein supplements, including bone broth and collagen, have been shown to help with everything from immunity to skin health, inflammation management, healthy blood sugar metabolism, blood pressure management, antioxidant protection, tissue repair, appetite control, and weight loss.

Key Health Benefits of Protein Supplements

• Aids Weight Loss
• Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar
• Controls Appetite & Prevents Cravings 
• Helps Prevent/Treat Sarcopenia
• Promotes Muscle Building

Who Should Consider Taking Protein Supplements?

As mentioned above, a protein supplement is wise for most individuals. It can help complete your nutritional profile, bolster your overall protein intake, or support fitness goals. Vegans and vegetarians can significantly benefit from adding a plant-based protein supplement to their diet. Supplementation can also be a great time-saver for those who don't have time for breakfast but can certainly spare 3 minutes to whip up a yummy, healthy protein shake. To prevent nutrient deficiencies, a quality protein supplement is also an excellent idea for children, teens and older adults who may be picker eaters or do not have much of an appetite.

Varieties of Protein Supplements: Potency, Form, and Source

These supplements are widely available in many forms, including powder, bars, and ready-to-drink beverages, from various sources, including whey, eggs, casein, rice, pea, soy, hemp, and even cricket for the more adventurous. Most of these varieties supply between 15 to 30 g of protein per serving, with an average of 20 g for most blends. There are many types of protein as well, like whey, ones for weight loss, bone broth protein, casein protein, hemp protein, rice protein, soya protein, pea protein and more. 

Choosing the Right Protein Supplement: What to Consider

Besides ethical considerations, such as whether you prefer a plant or animal-based protein, if you suffer from food intolerances and sensitivities, you'll also have to consider that. It would be best if you also look for a protein supplement that caters specifically to your health goals (building muscle, losing weight, supporting tissues, etc.), as each blend will offer distinct health benefits. 

When selecting your protein supplement, you should ideally look for a certified organic and non-GMO source and steer clear of any formulas that have added sugar, artificial flavours, colours, sweeteners, and other excipients. 

If you’re new to these supplements, ask the friendly and knowledgeable staff at your health food store or online supplement store for help to find just the right formula for you. You can buy all protein supplements for your needs right here at National Nutriton.ca