If people want to supplement their protein intake, they have two main options: protein pills or protein powder. Many are unaware that these convenient supplements can boost their protein consumption. We explore the key information about protein supplements overall, as well as how Protein Pills vs Powders differ from each other.
The Importance of Protein
Protein plays a vital role in your body and is critical for good health, as it’s comprised of amino acids that link together to form chains. There are 20 amino acids that can form thousands of different proteins in your body.
Key functions protein performs in your body include:
- Getting adequate protein is vital for maintaining and building your tissues. When recovering from illness or surgery, your protein needs may increase substantially as your body repairs itself. Normally, your body breaks down and builds proteins at the same rate. But during recovery, your protein breakdown exceeds production, elevating your requirements.
- Essential to the body’s vital processes, enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions like digestion, blood clotting, energy production, and muscle contraction.
- Some proteins function as hormones, which are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between cells, organs, and tissues. Examples of protein hormones include insulin and human growth hormone.
- Certain types of protein provide your body with structure, strength, and elasticity.
- Protein plays a vital role in regulating the optimal pH balance of your blood and bodily fluids.
- As antibodies, or immunoglobulins, antibodies help fight infection by binding to foreign invaders like viruses and bacteria. Antibodies are formed with the help of protein, providing protection against these harmful pathogens
- Some proteins transport substances through your bloodstream, including vitamins, minerals, and oxygen.
- Protein supplies your body with energy.
Should You Use a Protein Supplement?
Most people in developed countries following western diets get enough protein from their food. However, some individuals prefer to consume more protein for various reasons.
If you have a chronic condition like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease that impacts nutrient absorption, supplementing with protein may be beneficial.
People who are building muscle also tend to want to increase their protein intake.
People who are more physically active may require a higher protein intake than those who are less active.
Vegetarians and vegans may not get enough protein from their diet, so they could benefit from using a supplement.
Supplementing with Protein Powder
The most popular way to supplement protein intake is with protein powder. Three of the most common types of protein powder are soy, whey, and casein.
Whey is often used because it is a water-soluble milk protein that is easy to mix and contains all nine essential amino acids as a complete protein.
Protein powders offer an easy way to feel satisfied and full for longer, as they are packed with protein and can be quickly mixed into shakes or drinks.
What About Protein Pills?
Protein Pills vs Powder offer different options for supplementing protein intake – the pills provide portability and convenience while the powders allow for easy mixing into shakes and recipes.
For Example, many pills and capsules contain bone broth powder or collagen – animal-based protein sources that not only help meet nutritional needs, but may also benefit skin, nail, hair, and joint health.
Protein pills offer several advantages over protein powders, including:
- Less of a risk of filler ingredients
- No taste or smell to deal with
- Fewer calories
- More convenient
If weight loss is your primary goal, protein pills may be a better option than other forms of protein. Pills have fewer calories yet still provide the benefits of increasing your protein intake.
Compared to powders, the biggest downside of pills is that you’re getting less protein overall. Pills, on average, have just around two grams of protein.
On the other hand, protein powders contain approximately 20 grams of protein per serving.
Conclusion
When comparing protein supplements in pill versus powder form, consider your fitness goals and why you want to add more protein. This will help determine the best option for you, as both pills and powders have advantages and disadvantages.