Are all protein powders equal?

[Kibbles314]

I've seen a lot of different protein powders online and in stores, and I never know which ones are best or if they are even necessary at all. I do weight lifting 3 days a week, and hope to maintain a more toned appearance once I reach my goal weight. I've been told it's best to have a protein shake after my workout while I recover from some, while others have told me the time I eat doesn't matter. So far I have tried the EAS soy protein powder, (I prefer soy to whey since I'm lactose intolerant) and don't mind the taste, but it seems very expensive. Does anyone else feel that protein powder is necessary? Would it be better to find a different source of protein, or a different product? Also if it is important to have, does it matter when?

[Dominique]

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@Kibbles314 wrote:
Does anyone else feel that protein powder is necessary?

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Protein is necessary for building muscle, but it doesn't have to be in powder form. Powder just happens to be convenient to use, dose and store. I find a 4 kg bag of high-quality whey protein isolate doesn't cost me more than the same protein content in - say - chicken breast form.

You may find the following link useful:

http://www.precisionnutrition.com/all-about-protein-powders

And here is another discussion on which protein powder is the best.

[Kibbles314]

Thanks, those are great links!

[uptonld]

For some reason whey protein doesn't seem to bother most people who are lactose intolerant. I've used it for several years. No one told me that you shouldn't add it to hot foods as that negates the protein.(I used to put it in oatmeal). Now I used it on mixed fruit.