All Protein Powders Are Not Created Equal

I've used protein powders on and off for quite awhile now. I've always used them in conjunction with weight training and always as a supplement. When I got away from regular training, I also backed off on the protein - there was simply no need for it. Protein shakes seemed to always be in the realm of "body building bros" and most people were uneducated as to just what they were, myself included. These days, I see more advertisements for all manner of supplements, especially protein powders, but I also see more people confused as to just what the hell they're supposed to be doing with it. And it doesn't help that there are so damn many versions and brands of protein powders. It's confusing as hell.

This past week, I was given a tub of plant-based protein powder from a co-worker. I decided I would give it a try and give my own review and thoughts on it. Now, bear in mind, I'm no expert! I'm not a nutrionist. I'm just a schmoe trying to schlep my way through the fitness life. All that in mind, here we go!

Orgain Organic Protein is the powder I was given. The flavor was Creamy Chocolate Fudge.

I used the suggested serving of 2 scoops in 12oz of water. I just used a spoon to mix, no blender or shaker container. My thoughts? It was gritty and tasted like artificial chocolate cardboard. So, you know, just as expected. How did it make me feel? I drank it at breakfast and within an hour I was feeling hungry again. It didn't feel satisfying at all. I say this because this type of protein powder isn't really meant as a muscle gainer. It has an ok amount of protein, but nothing to really write home about. It's low-calorie and also contains a decent amount of fiber. This is the type of protein powder that I would say is more suitable for a meal-replacement to help lose weight. But because it doesn't give me a satisfied feeling, I'd definitely find it hard not to snack.

The protein powder I had currently been using was GNC Pure Isolate

When we adjust the amounts to equal out the serving sizes between the 2 brands, the GNC powder has nearly twice the amount of protein. In one scoop, there's 25g, as opposed to 10.5 in the Orgain powder. It has slightly less carbs, 3g as opposed to 4.5g. However, there's no fiber and the calories are almost doubled at 120 calories per scoop. So the GNC powder is best used as pure muscle-building supplement and definitely not a way to lose weight

Another caveat with protein powders is that the liquid you mix them with, along with any added ingredients, can pack on the calories, fat and carbs. So you have to be carfeul! It's very easy to fall into the trap of making "healthy" protein smoothies. You forget to add in all the extra carbs from that hefty plop of yogurt. Oh, and you used fruit juice instead of water? Yeah, you might as well have just used soda. That's why, even with healthy supplements, it's extremely important to use the correct measurements and keep track of your macros.

At the end of the day, it all just boils down to knowing what the hell you're looking to do. Is weightloss your goal or is your goal to gain muscle and mass? Once you know that, then you can narrow down your search of the proper protein powder and use it correctly and honestly.