1757: The Truth About the Anabolic Window & Protein Timing

Essentials

Sal Di Stefano emphasizes the importance of selecting the right protein powder, especially when it's challenging to meet protein goals through food alone. He explains that the market is flooded with various types, each claiming to be the best, which can be confusing for consumers. Adam Schafer and Sal discuss the historical significance of protein supplements and how marketing has complicated the decision-making process for many people 1 2.

The marketing around protein has existed for a long time, and a lot of money is poured into it because you can look at protein and say, well, 10 grams is 10 grams is 10 grams. And they said, no, there's differences.

--- Sal Di Stefano

Sal notes that after decades of training people, they've identified key factors to consider when buying protein powder, which can help simplify the choice 1.

   

Digestibility

Digestibility is a crucial factor when choosing a protein powder. Justin Andrews shares his experience with various types of protein powders, noting that some can cause significant digestive issues like bloating and gas. Sal advises starting with known food intolerances and testing small amounts of protein powder to find what works best for you 3.

If the protein powder is harder for you to digest than food, it's the wrong powder for you. You should drink protein powder and feel like you drink water.

--- Sal Di Stefano

Adam Schafer adds that digestive issues can lead to increased inflammation and stress hormones, which counteract muscle-building efforts 4.

   

Quality

Quality is another essential aspect to consider. Sal explains that the protein powder market is highly competitive, leading some companies to cut corners by using practices like amino acid spiking. This can result in lower protein content than advertised 5. Justin Andrews mentions a study that found high levels of heavy metals in some vegan protein powders, highlighting the importance of third-party testing for contaminants 6.

Quality plays a factor in a lot more ways than you anticipate going into it.

--- Justin Andrews

Adam advises looking for third-party testing to ensure the protein powder is free from harmful substances and accurately labeled 5.

   

Flavor

Flavor and mixing are practical considerations that can impact the consistency of protein powder use. Sal notes that if clients don't like the flavor, they are less likely to use the product consistently. He suggests that chocolate and vanilla are generally safer bets for good taste 7.

If you dread drinking your protein powder, you're just not going to stick with it.

--- Sal Di Stefano

Adam prefers vanilla because it mixes well with various ingredients, making it versatile for different types of shakes 8.