In the realm of fitness and nutrition, protein holds an esteemed position as the building block of muscles, aiding in recovery, and supporting overall health. While obtaining protein from whole food sources is essential, many individuals turn to protein powder to conveniently meet their protein needs. However, with a plethora of options available, it can be daunting to navigate the world of protein powders. In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of protein powder, explore the different types available, and provide insights to help you select the one best suited for your needs.

Why Take Protein Powder?

Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays several critical roles in the body. Muscle repair and growth, enzyme protection, hormone regulation, immune function, structural support, and transporting oxygen throughout the body or acting as a storage for nutrients are just a few examples of the many wonderful benefits of consuming protein. However, despite the benefits of protein, many struggle to meet their daily recommended amount. Whether you have a busy lifestyle, or specific dietary requirements, protein powder offers a convenient and efficient way to up your intake.

Whether you’re an athlete looking to support muscle growth and recovery, a busy professional striving for convenient nutrition, or someone seeking to maintain overall health, protein powder can be a valuable addition to your diet.

Types of Protein Powder

When choosing a protein powder, you can either go for an animal protein or a plant based protein. Below i have broken down the various types:

1. Whey Protein: Whey protein is one of the most popular and widely researched forms of protein powder. It is derived from milk during the cheese-making process and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Whey protein is quickly absorbed by the body, making it ideal for post-workout consumption to support muscle and recovery growth. However, it may be a good idea to take a plant protein alternative if you are prone to dairy sensitivities.

There are three different types of whey protein - whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and whey protein hydrolysate. The difference between the three deals with the protein content, lactose and fat content, proccessing level, absorbtion speed and cost. There is a lot of information that you can look into regarding which one is best for you, but the general consensus is: 

• Concentrate: Best for those looking for a cost-effective, general protein supplement without specific dietary restrictions.
• Isolate: Suitable for those with lactose intolerance, or for those seeking a higher protein intake with fewer calories and fat.

Hydrolysate: Ideal for individuals needing rapid protein absorption, such as post-workout recovery or those with specific medical needs.

2. Casein Protein: Like whey, cassein is also derived from milk. However, it is digested more slowly, providing a sustained release of amino acids into the bloodstream. This makes casein protein an excellent option for consumption before bedtime or during periods of prolonged fasting to prevent muscle breakdown.

3. Pea Protein: Pea protein is a plant-based protein powder sourced from yellow peas. It is naturally vegan and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with fairy or soy allergies. Pea protein is also rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which play a crucial role in muscle repair and growth.

4. Soy Protein: Soy protein is another plant-based option derived from soybeans. It is a complete protein and contains all essential amino acids. Soy protein has been extensively studied for its health benefits, including its potential to reduce cholesterol levels and support heart health.

5. Hemp Protein: Hemp protein is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and minerals. While it may not be a complete protein on its own, combining hemp protein with other plant-based sources can provide a complete amino acid profile.

6. Rice Protein: Rice protein is hypoallergenic and easily digestible, making it suitable for individuals with food sensitivities. However, it is not a complete protein on its own and may need to be combined with other plant-based sources to ensure a balanced acid profile.

Types Of Protein We Offer At Coco

Plant Based

Nufyx 

Nufyx is one of the cleanest protein powders available on the market! This organic,100% plant based, gluten free, keto friendly, and kosher protein is made with only 6 natural and functional ingredients: Organic american peas, organic lucuma fruit, organic natural flavour, himalaya pink salt, organic stevia leaf, and aminogen. 

Nufyx are the first in the world to use premium organic american grown and harvested peas from select farmers as their exclusive protein source for your body and the planet. Their incentive of sourcing sustainable and local peas, arose when they came across a study conducted by the Clean Label Project. They tested 134 of the top selling vegan protein powders on Amazon.com and found that 75% had elevated levels of lead, 70% had elevated levels of cadmium and 55% had elevated levels of BPA. Their key finding: these contaminants came from (1) the soil in which the peas were grown (predominantly in China) and (2) their traditional plastic tub packaging. Thus NUFYX was created, only containing a miniscule amount of heavy metals - significantly less than the average leading competitors.

Along with sustainability, Nufyx prides itself on contributing to the maintenance of good gut health, as well as its smooth, chalk-free texture. Aminogen, a vegan digestive enzyme blend, is added to the protein to aid in digestion and absorption. And the creamy consistency of the powder can be attributed to the high quality peas that are grown in local farms. So you can say goodbye to your post-protein shake bloat or unpalatable protein oats, and try Nufyx! Offered in vanilla or chocolate.

 https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=Nufyx

HeLa

HeLa’s Organic Plant Protein Powder is a high quality, complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids. It is a great choice for vegans and vegetarians and for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets. It contains 22g of protein and 5g of fibre per scoop. Definitely a great option if you are looking to up your fibre intake!

Packed with the health benefits of peas, hemp, pumpkin, chia seeds, and basil seeds, it is vegan, gluten-free, kosher, nut-free, soy-free, non-GMO, organic, and grain-free. It is also free from artificial flavorings and sweeteners.

HeLa Nutrition was founded by two Canadian female health professionals who are passionate about wellness, and developed this brand to provide organic, whole food products to support your healthy lifestyle. HeLa's goal is to help you easily incorporate healthy habits into your busy lifestyle, so that you can achieve lasting wellness.

https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=HeLa%20Nutrition

Sun Warrior 

This unflavoured pea protein powder is another easily digestible, nutrient filled superfood perfect for anyone who wants to amplify their health and fitness. If you’re looking for an unflavoured protein that won’t disrupt the taste of your smoothies, then you should definitely check this one out!

Sunwarrior is committed to making the best Plant-based proteins and superfood supplements. Their mission is to nourish & transform the planet, one individual at a time, by providing the highest quality, clean, affordable, plant-based nutrition, education, and science-backed bio-technologies. Their ingredients include Proprietary Protein Blend (Organic Fermented Pea Protein, Organic Hemp Seed Protein, Organic Goji Berry), Organic Medium-chain Triglycerides Oil (Coconut Oil, Acacia Gum). Pairs well with their collagen as well!

https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=Sun%20Warrior

 

Niyama 

This deliciously smooth, vegan, not too sweet, all-natural organic pea protein powder is the perfect addition to your smoothie or shake. With 20g of organic plant-sourced protein plus fiber, vitamins and minerals in each scoop, this powder is vegan-friendly, allergen-free, extremely low in fat, with zero sugar and nothing artificial. Stevia-free.

Niyama Wellness creates products that are super effective, (so you know they are working) and delightful to use (so you actually enjoy them). 

Niyama supports your self-care from head to toe, supporting an active lifestyle and nourishing your overall well-being. All Niyama wellness products are vegan, non-GMO and made in Canada. Free from gluten, soy and sugar with no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or preservatives.

 https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=Niyama

Nuzest

Clean, vegan protein to help you look, feel and perform at your best. Clean Lean Protein is not just any protein; it comes from the highest quality European Golden Peas and is the most potent of all vegetable proteins. Most importantly, it contains all your essential amino acids and it’s really easy to digest – no more bloating and no more discomfort.

 

Led by nature, and backed by science, Nuzest products are designed to give your body what it needs to balance the demands of your busy life. Offered in vanilla, chocolate, probiotic vanilla, and probiotic chocolate - you cannot go wrong with incorporating Nuzest into your diet!

Ingredients:

Smooth Vanilla: Pea protein isolate, natural vanilla flavour, thaumatin

Rich Chocolate: Pea protein isolate, cocoa powder (organic), natural chocolate flavour, natural vanilla flavour, thaumatin

Probiotic Vanilla: Pea protein isolate, Organic coconut palm sugar, organic vanilla beans, L-glutamine, Bacillus coagulans 975 million CFU

https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=Nuzest

 

Animal Based

 Schinoussa 

New Zealand has the highest standards in the industry when it comes to dairy farming, which ensures that the milk will be clean and free from growth hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides. Additionally, and importantly, it ensures that cattle are cared for and treated ethically. 

 

Made with all natural ingredients, this protein powder has 25g protein, with no fat, carbohydrates, sugars, lactose, soy, gluten, or wheat. Currently, Coco Market sells flavors in Swiss Chocolate, French Vanilla, Cookies & Cream, S’mores, chocolate, and vanilla. Don’t be fooled by the delicious flavors, this protein powder is one of the cleanest and healthiest proteins available on the market today.

 

The Schinoussa formula is what separates it from the herd, literally. Their eight probiotic blend allows both the protein and digestive system to perform better. Proteins break down into amino acids faster, and are absorbed faster in the muscle and immune system. The gut is stronger to improve immune response, healing and overall well being.

 

Quantum Nutrition is a natural food company founded by John Koveos B.Sc, H.D in Vaughan Ontario. In 2004 John was in a near death accident where a tractor trailer T-boned his vehicle. Suffering many injuries from this John used his knowledge and formulated the most powerful superfood to recover from many complications. This Superfood is Schinoussa sea vegetables. With this, Quantum Nutrition Inc was born. He introduced this formula in his clinic in 2005. The response by his clients was immediate and word of mouth spread this product to every major health store and grocery retailer in Canada. Quantum Nutrition now has many scientifically formulated therapeutic products created by John so everyone can now have the opportunity to choose the healthiest products for a healthy life!

https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=Schinoussa

 

For her kind

Protein For All contains pure beef protein free of hormones and antibiotics. Our formula provides a clean and easily digestible source of protein, which is hydrolyzed into more peptides for maximum absorption in body tissues. If you’re looking for a highly concentrated protein source, For Her Kind is a great option!

- Complete profile of amino acids, delivering 21 grams of protein per scoop
- Helps optimize muscle repair and growth to build definition
- Promotes lean muscle mass when used with resistance training and targeted nutrition
- Improves energy, blood sugar and weight regulation, and overall well-being
- Doesn't cause bloating like typical whey or pea proteins
Paleo formula: gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, pea-free, non-GMO

For Her Kind helps women work towards their best health and physique, to become a happier, healthier, and more confident version of themselves. We provide accessible, high-quality products, training, and education to help optimize women's health and wellness. Our supplements are carefully sourced using the best quality ingredients, free of common allergens, and designed for optimal digestion and maximal absorption into body tissues.

https://shopcoco.ca/collections/vendors?q=For%20Her%20Kind

 

Choosing The Right Protein Powder

When choosing a protein powder, consider the following factors to ensure it aligns with your goals and dietary preferences: 

1. Protein Content: Look for a protein powder with a high protein content per serving to maximize its effectiveness in meeting your protein needs. 
2. Ingredients: Pay attention to the ingredient list and avoid protein powders with added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Opt for products with minimal, natural ingredients. A good Amino acid profile is key (leucine, isoleucine, and valine). 
3. Allergens: If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, choose a protein powder that is free from common allergens such as dairy, soy, gluten, and nuts. Sprouted, fermented, or hemp proteins are your best choice for digestion if you have a history of gut sensitivities. 
4. Taste and Texture: Select a protein powder that you enjoy the taste and texture of, as this will increase the likelihood of incorporating it into your daily routine. 
5. Purpose: Consider your specific goals, whether it be muscle building, weight loss, or general health maintenance, and choose a protein powder that best supports those objectives. 

Protein powder can be a valuable tool for enhancing your nutrition and supporting your health and fitness goals. By understanding the different types of protein powders available and considering key factors such as protein content, ingredients, and dietary preferences, you can select the perfect protein powder to complement your lifestyle and achieve optimal results. Hopefully this blog gave you a bit of insight into what protein powder is out there, or which protein is best for you. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before making any significant changes to your diet or supplementation routine. With the right protein powder in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to fuel your body and unleash your full potential. 

Thanks for reading x