Power of Protein: Choosing a Protein Powder to Supplement Your Swim

Protein.
Just saying the word makes me feel stronger. Athletes from all over love finding new ways to consume protein (shakes, bars, bites, etc.)
However, many have not done much research about protein. This blog is here to educate you on the best protein powder to enhance your swimming AND inform you on how much you need personally.

How Much Protein Do You Need?

Find your weight in kilograms (to convert pounds to kilograms, divide by 2.2).
Multiply that number by 1.4 to 1.7 (depending on exercise volume and intensity). This number is the amount of protein (in grams) that you should eat daily.
“Use the lower figure during off-to-low duration/intensity workout days, and use the higher figure during peak training and racing periods. Thus, a 165–pound (75 kg) athlete in high training mode should consume about 128 grams of protein daily.”
 

Whey or Casein? That is the question

When comparing whey and casein (the two main proteins found in milk):
“Casein is a slow-digesting protein, whereas whey is a fast-digesting protein. This makes whey protein powder an excellent choice following resistance exercise or swimming practice.”
With this information, we can determine that we want to select whey protein powder. Now it just becomes a matter of brand.
 

Top Rated Whey Protein Powders on the Market

Men’s health has named this particular brand of whey protein powder the best protein powder on the market.
At 120 calories per scoop, this powder has 24 grams of protein with only 3 grams of carbs and 1 gram of fat. That is a good break down. It is also rated well among high end protein powders, yet still very affordable. The best for your money for sure.
It mixes in well with any drink or shake, leaves a nice texture, tastes great and it “has the highest biological value of any protein on the market with no artificial flavors or sweeteners.” This brand it definitely a winner.
 

If You’re Vegan

If you are a vegan, you likely aren’t going to want to choose a protein powder that is derived from an animal by-product (milk).
This dietary choice is a well respected and fast growing community. So we wanted to rate the best protein powder option for you too!
Sun warrior is an amazing brand that combines all of the best raw, plant-based proteins. This blend carries every essential amino acids for “a balanced protein profile and has a 98.2% absorption and utilization rate.”
Which is great news because there’s no point in going through the extra effort if your body isn’t absorbing and utilizing the nutrients.
 

If You’re Pregnant

Mommi… if the brand name isn’t cute enough to sell you right there, let me introduce you further.
Mommi is a 3-in-1 deal. With “15 grams of premium whey protein, 100% of the daily recommended prenatal vitamins and 200 mg of DHA in every serving,” you have everything you need to grow a strong, perfectly healthy baby! It’s a one stop shop.
Many of the more common brands of protein powders and bars carry the same warning on the label: “Not recommended for pregnant women.” Mommi is the exception. It’s geared specifically for pregnancy.
And since swimming is an amazing way to feel weightless and move around during pregnancy, this blend it great to supplement your swim while pregnant too.

The Power of Protein

What goals has protein powder help you reach?
Which brands do you love?
Let us know in the comment section.