17 best muscle growth proteins

Natural muscle growth is a fairly long process, even with a protein nutrition and exercise program. Accelerated muscle building proteins, in large quantities contained not only in food, but also in special food additives. Today they are in the diet of not only professional athletes, but also ordinary people. Experts EXPERTOLOGY found out how useful and dangerous protein shakes are, identified the main advantages and disadvantages of this product, and also ranked the best brand manufacturers of concentrated protein according to bodybuilders and doctors.

Advantages and risks of protein shakes

Protein - is a concentrate of animal or vegetable protein, obtained by extracting a useful substance in a laboratory or mass production.

Protein - It is a building material for all tissues of the body, including muscle. However, using it in unlimited quantities can lead to some health problems. The consumption rate for an adult is 1 gram per 1 kg of weight, for pregnant women and athletes with a need for an increased amount of “building material” - 1.5 g / kg of weight. Moreover, it is necessary that half of the daily norm should be vegetable proteins, half - substances of animal origin.

What is the use of protein

1. Building material for fabrics, including for muscles;
2. Safe food supplement when used in a standardized amount of not more than 90 grams. per day or in another dosage for individual indications;
3. Protein (protein) saturates the body with the necessary amount of energy without excess fat and fast carbohydrates, contributing to effective weight loss.

However, it should be remembered: besides protein, other components are present in cocktail mixes, in particular, a large amount of sugar (carbohydrate), as well as vitamins and other additives that can cause allergic reactions. Risks can also be caused by improper use tactics:

1. Protein intake should be systemic, since the gastrointestinal tract adapts to this kind of food, its excess can lead to eating disorder;
2. Other foods should be selected taking into account the composition, so that a sufficient amount of carbohydrates, fat and protein, as well as trace elements are present in the diet. Otherwise, the opposite effect may occur (apathy, obesity);
3. Drinking cocktails alone is dangerous for health: the body needs fats and sugars, fiber, and the necessary amount of energy.

Protein itself is a safe product, but with proper use.

How to choose a protein

The range of protein mixtures on the shelves of shops, even professionals sometimes put in a dead end. We offer several criteria for the selection of the "same" protein.

First factor - This is the main component. Depending on the type of feedstock protein is divided into several types:

1. Casein protein is obtained from cow's milk, curdled with enzymes. Protein has a complex structure that contributes to long-term absorption, which means that the feeling of satiety remains for a long time.
2. Whey protein is rich in BCAA amino acids, it is the fastest in terms of cleavage among proteins. It is ideal in protein breaks to provide muscles with essential amino acids.
3. Egg is the most valuable and is digested at 99%.
4. Soy is the only vegetable protein in the group. It is saturated with amino acids, helps to eliminate toxins and cholesterol from the body. It is optimal in the fight against obesity, as well as one of the few suitable for the use of allergies to cow's milk. At the same time there is a load on the gastrointestinal tract, so the dosage must be accurate.
5. Milk protein is a combination of whey (20%) and casein (80%) proteins in combination with milk carbohydrates.
6. Collagen protein must be consumed with any other type of protein. It helps to renew the cells of the skin, joints, ligaments, serves as a regenerative agent after injuries, after competitions.

Composition - This is the first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing. When intolerance of milk protein should be preferred egg or soy supplement in food. Also need to pay attention to additional components.

Another selection option is protein release form. It may be a protein concentrate or isolate. The concentrate is less valuable, contains lactose and is dangerous for allergies. Isolate is a pure protein, more expensive, easier to digest, but requires compliance with the use of the regime in alternation with the load schedule.

Do not confuse proteins and gainers - The latter, in addition to protein, contains fats and carbohydrates, they can replace high-grade meals. Only one product should be consumed - either a gainer or a protein that should be preferred.

Table of advantages and disadvantages of the main types of proteins

In order to visually assess the advantages and disadvantages of the main types of protein, we summarized them in the table:

Squirrel species	Virtues	disadvantages	Mastering rate, g / hour
Casein	- Long process of mastering; - Full complex of amino acids.	- Specific taste; - Poorly mixed with other additives.	4…6
Whey	- It is homogenized with other additives and products; -Contains many amino acids; - High absorption rate.	- Rapid absorption contributes to the rapid return of hunger, it is recommended to combine during the day with other proteins.	10…12
Egg	- High efficiency of protein digestion; - Optimum speed of mastering; - Recommended for weight loss.	- The price is one of the highest.	9
Soy	- Removes cholesterol and slag; - It is long acquired; suitable for milk intolerance.	- Relatively low value; - High estrogen activity (not very favorable for men).	4
Lactic	- The most affordable; - High content of amino acids.	- High concentrations of lactose can cause intestinal problems.	4,5

In order to choose the right proteins that are truly effective for your body, the EXPERTOLOGY team recommends that you consult a doctor or a certified trainer who will additionally determine the required dose and mode of use. And in order to navigate in the range, we offer a rating of the best brand manufacturers of this food additive.

Top Protein Rating

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Top Slow Proteins (Casein)	1	MusclePharm Combat 100% Casein	3 463 ₽
	2	Optimum Nutrition 100% Casein Gold Standard	1 785 ₽
	3	Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Casein Protein	3 890 ₽
	4	QNT Casein Protein	1 990 ₽
The best serum hydrolysates	1	Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey	3 870 ₽
	2	Nanox hydrolox	5 970 ₽
	3	Real Pharm Real Hydro 100	1 042 ₽
Top Whey Isolates	1	Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Gold Standard	3 590 ₽
	2	QNT Metapure Zero Carb	2 359 ₽
	3	Dymatize ISO-100 Zero Carb	5 840 ₽
Top Whey Concentrates	1	Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Whey Protein	2 439 ₽
	2	Scitec Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Professional	3 350 ₽
	3	Steel Power Fast Whey Protein	1 100 ₽
Best Multicomponent Proteins	1	BSN Syntha-6	2 890 ₽
	2	SynTrax Matrix	2 470 ₽
	3	Rule 1 R1 Protein	4 905 ₽

Top Slow Proteins (Casein)

Using casein, you can not only saturate the body with a useful protein, but also get a feeling of satiety for a long time - as already mentioned, the protein has a complex structure that is absorbed by the body for a long time.

MusclePharm Combat 100% Casein

Rating: 4.9

The most popular product made in the USA is MusclePharm - Combat 100% Casein. It is a slow-release protein, enhanced by amino acids and digestive enzymes (60 mg), which promotes improved transportation of components to the muscles in order to accelerate their growth, including at night. Combat 100% Casein gives a feeling of satiety for a long time, therefore, it is optimal for a snack before bedtime - the body will not get extra calories and will not threaten those extra pounds. In addition, digestive enzymes favor the improvement of the overall gastrointestinal tract.

Research has proven: delayed digestion, which is facilitated by MusclePharm casein, is able to protect muscles from injury and tearing.

The cost of MusclePharm Combat 100% Casein per pack of 907 grams is about 2,950 rubles, but the volume is enough for a long time - one measuring spoon dissolves in 300-400 ml of water.

Optimum Nutrition 100% Casein Gold Standard

Rating: 4.8

Casein ranked second with a slightly lower cost - about 1,785 rubles for the same 910 grams. At the same time, it is easy to find a product, and it is possible to purchase it in several flavors, bringing variety to the diet.

Food supplements are based on high-quality casein, which requires significant digestion from the body, which contributes to maintaining a feeling of satiety. The product also contains a complex of natural amino acids (including glutamine), which are not produced by the human stomach, but there is a need for them. They are transported to the muscles within 5-6 hours after consumption.

Optimum Nutrition Protein 100% Casein Gold Standard is in demand among athletes as a component of muscle building and ordinary people who want to improve the quality of sleep and lose a couple of kilograms by replacing harmful snacks.

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Casein Protein

Rating: 4.7

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar Slow Motion Absorber 100% Casein Protein is suitable for muscle recovery and muscle growth, therefore it is in demand among athletes. The composition contains 20 important amino acids involved in the construction of muscles, including 9 elements that the body does not synthesize on its own.

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar has a high concentration of casein in the product. It is an isolate, a valuable nutritional supplement suitable for athletes and people leading active and healthy lifestyles. A serving contains 25 grams of the purest protein, and the total caloric content is only 80 kcal.

The cost of a can is 2.39 kg, an average of 3,190 rubles, or 1,334 rubles per 1 kg.

QNT Casein Protein

Rating: 4.6

The innovative Belgian product for athletes based on QNT casein protein Casein Protein ranked fourth in the ranking. It is suitable for building muscle mass, but it showed itself to be just like a product for keeping fit. Protein in the amount of 80% has a high biological value and is endowed with B vitamins, contributing to the accumulation of the component with the muscles and its absorption by muscle fibers, reducing catabolism. After consuming a portion of casein in the morning, at night, or between major meals, the body maintains a normal level of nitrogen.

One serving of QNT Casein Protein contains 23.7 grams. protein and 109 kcal, the amount of fat is reduced to 0.5 grams. Sugar is replaced by an artificial counterpart. You can buy a protein mix for 1 950 rubles for a can of 908 grams.

The best serum hydrolysates

Whey protein has several types. Hydrolyzate is a special form of protein, previously purified from excess sugars and fat, in which the peptide structure is partially destroyed by an industrial method. This is necessary for more efficient and rapid absorption of the main components by the human digestive system.

It should be noted: the hydrolyzate is obtained from the whey at any stage of processing from the primary synthesis of protein concentrate to isolate, the last professional athletes give greater preference because of its high value. The price of the product is appropriate - it is one of the most expensive in the protein group.

Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey

Rating: 4.9

Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey serum protein leader is recognized by sports nutrition professionals as one of the best hydrolyzates, won an award in 2010 as the best supplement, ideal for building lean muscle and its endurance. By consuming Platinum HydroWhey, you can quickly restore muscles, build them, as well as reduce the percentage of subcutaneous fat and reduce catabolism.

In a 30-gram portion of the hydrolyzate there is 30 grams. protein with a minimum content of carbohydrate and fat (3 and 1 gr., respectively), and the energy value of only 140 kcal. The product is suitable for athletes during drying, weight gain, for ordinary people who need high-quality protein in everyday life and during weight loss.

First place in the Optimum Nutrition Platinum HydroWhey rankings provided recognition of the supplement as one of the most effective, as well as exceptionally high quality components of the hydrolyzate. The cost of a package weighing 795 grams is equivalent to about 2,400 rubles.

Nanox hydrolox

Rating: 4.8

In the second place of the rating is another advanced protein hydrolyzate of whey isolate Nanox Hydrolox. It is distinguished by the richest set of amino acids, thanks to which the product is effectively transported to the muscles and restores, nourishes them. The fat content is minimized to 0.5 grams per serving 30 grams, carbohydrates - up to 1.5 grams, but protein is enough - almost 25 grams. It is noteworthy: the taste of each cocktail is achieved using natural ingredients: cocoa powder, natural caramel flavor, sugar is replaced by a substitute.

The cost of high-quality hydrolyzate Nanox Hydrolox is slightly higher than that of the leader - almost 6,000 rubles for a package of 1.5 kg.

Real Pharm Real Hydro 100

Rating: 4.7

In the third position in the rating of whey-protein hydrolysates is the Polish product Real Pharm Real Hydro 100, which is distinguished by high quality raw materials at a relatively low price - about 1,000 rubles for a package of 700 grams. The cost is due to the use of protein concentrate, less valuable than the isolate.

The product is quickly absorbed and transported in the muscles, helps to restore and slow down catabolism, is also suitable for increasing the relief, but to a lesser extent compared with the leaders of the rating. Real Pharm Real Hydro 100 is rich in amino acids, including valuable glutamine. Protein per serving 23.4 grams., Lipids - 1.71 grams, sugar - 1.55 grams. The composition also includes dyes and flavors, with which you need to be careful with allergies.

Top Whey Isolates

The isolate itself is a highly concentrated protein of up to 80% in composition, having a complex structure. Because of it, the digestion process is delayed for several hours, the feeling of hunger does not arise during this time. However, compared to other protein types, serum isolates are absorbed relatively quickly, for which bodybuilders who need accelerated muscle replenishment appreciate it.

Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Gold Standard

Rating: 4.9

Isolate Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Gold Standard in its segment is a recognized leader, it is preferred by athletes in many countries around the world who want to gain the desired muscle volume. The product is marked by multiple awards as the best source of protein for bodybuilders. The product is the purest whey isolate of three types: microfiltered, ion-purified, ultrafiltered, and whey peptides. 79% by weight is pure protein with 1 g fat and 3g of carbohydrate, and 24g of protein. with an energy value of 120 kcal (per serving). Transportation of the active component is accelerated by the introduction of hydrolyzed whey with shortened molecular bonds into the mixture.

In sports nutrition Whey Gold Standard there is no lactose, it is replaced by enzymes lactase and aminogen, adjusting the process of digestion. Amino acids are presented in a wide range with a dosage of 30 grams of BCAA per 30 g serving.

Isolate 100% Whey Gold Standard in the amount of 2.225 grams. - about 3590 rubles.

QNT Metapure Zero Carb

Rating: 4.8

The second on the list is a slightly less perfect isolate of QNT Metapure Zero Carb serum, ideal for a set of lean muscles. In the mixture there is a full complex of BCAA acids, the content of lipids and carbohydrate components is reduced to 1 gr., And all 50 grams of proteins can be consumed in a single dose! But the dosage of dry matter is more - 60 g., Its consumption is correspondingly higher than that of the leader Optimum Nutrition. Calorie 212 kcal.

QNT Metapure Zero Carb is one of the universal sources of fast protein for athletes and people who are on a good diet.

Packing cost 1000 gr. is about 2125 rubles.

Dymatize ISO-100 Zero Carb

Rating: 4.7

The third in the category of isolate cow serum Dymatize ISO-100 Zero Carb. A portion of the product (28 g.) Contains 106 kcal with zero sugar and fat. This was achieved using a 100% whey protein isolate, quickly digested and transported to muscle fibers.It is recommended for use during the period of intensive training and preserving the carbohydrate balance in the "drying" and weight gain.

In addition to protein, the body contains vital minerals: magnesium (32 mg), calcium (150 mg), sodium (50 mg) in one portion with an unusual taste of orange ice cream, cinnamon bun, brownie or a festive cake.

Dissolving, a portion of Dymatize ISO-100 Zero Carb retains the original structure, when used quickly absorbed in the digestive tract. Lactose in the composition is absent, so it is possible to use the mixture even for allergic people without a threat to health. Protein is recommended for people and athletes on a low-carb diet.

The cost of Dymatize ISO-100 Zero Carb in a package of 2.275 kg will be about 5770 rubles.

Top Whey Concentrates

Whey protein concentrate is less valuable in comparison with isolate and hydrolyser, it often has more carbohydrates and lipids, is absorbed more slowly, but this does not prevent sportpitu based on it to perform the main function - to help muscles grow and rehabilitate, even with lower intensity (often depends on abilities of the gastrointestinal tract of a specific athlete). In addition, concentrates are much cheaper than more advanced types of protein, for which they are chosen by amateur athletes and people who adhere to proper nutrition.

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Whey Protein

Rating: 4.9

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Whey Protein sports nutrition was created from whey concentrate and isolate, so the absorption speed of the cocktail is rapid. In a 30-gram dosage of concentrate contains 25 grams. valuable protein in a complex with 20 amino acids, from them 9 organism are not synthesized, but are irreplaceable. The composition also includes soy lecithin and a variety of flavors.

Ultimate Nutrition Prostar Whey Protein 100% Whey Protein helps improve digestion, and amino acids begin to be absorbed even in the mouth due to certain peptides that are quickly digested by enzymes, their maximum concentration is reached in half an hour.

It is recommended to use concentrated whey protein in the morning or before exercise due to the long time of complete absorption.

The cost of Ultimate Nutrition Prostar 100% Whey Protein weighing 2.27 kg is about 3,190 rubles.

Scitec Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Professional

Rating: 4.8

Scitec Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Professional, the strongest ultrafiltration protein concentrate, ranked second, is known in bodybuilding circles all over the world - the American product has a high biological value (BV) and a full range of amino acids, including anabolic. In addition, the powder contains 10% of immunoglobulins to maintain immunity, which is especially important in the offseason. Quadropeptides help reduce inflammation, helping to train without internal muscle injury. Lactose in the composition is absent, the amount of fat is proportionally reduced to 2 gr., Sugars - to 1.4 gr., But protein 22 gr. The patented Aminogen® enzymes accelerate the transport of protein molecules to the muscles.

The unique composition of Scitec Nutrition 100% Whey Protein Professional can be bought for 3775 rubles for 2.35 kg.

Steel Power Fast Whey Protein

Rating: 4.7

The product of a combination of concentrate and isolate Steel Power Fast Whey Protein, as well as analogues, contains a rich amino acid set (including glutamine, lecithin, taurine), due to which it is quickly absorbed and restores the body. One dose gives 175 kcal, only 18 of them are obtained from fats (2.2 g.).

Eating Steel Power Fast Whey Protein is recommended after physical activity, when muscles need to be replenished with nutrients.

The cost of the product is 1,099 rubles for 0.9 kg.

Best Multicomponent Proteins

For multi-component type of nutrition for athletes are protein mixtures of different types. They are distinguished by an expanded spectrum of action in view of the complex composition, as well as by prolonged nourishment of the muscles from the moment they are consumed to several hours. The cost of products is determined by the underlying type of protein.

BSN Syntha-6

Rating: 4.9

In the second place of mixed proteins, the product of sports nutrition BSN Syntha-6 with an increased energy value of 200 kcal per serving 44 grams of dry matter, which is 1.5 times more than the other mixtures, respectively, the product will decrease with greater speed and the amount must be calculated from by this account. Also increased the amount of fat - 6 grams., More carbohydrates - 15 grams.

The composition of BSN Syntha-6 contains proteins with different rates of absorption from slow to very fast (ultrafiltered whey, concentrated milk, casein and egg white), thus saturation lasts a long time, as well as the nutrition of the muscles.

A feature of Syntha-6 sports nutrition is its versatility; it is suitable for use at any time when there is a need for protein, including instead of a snack between meals.

The cost of 2.27 kg BSN Syntha-6 starts from 3210 rubles.

SynTrax Matrix

Rating: 4.8

The third place was given by the experts to the SynTrax Matrix multiprotein cocktail, made from whey and milk protein concentrates, egg white protein with the addition of glutamine peptides for better transportation of active ingredients to the muscles. A balanced complex of amino acids, including essential, are also included in the composition of food nutrition. They saturate the body for several hours, so it is recommended to use SynTrax Matrix, like the others, in the morning and immediately after a workout.

Another nice feature of nutrition is a variety of different flavors, obtained using natural and artificial flavors. In one portion of the cocktail (30 grams of dry matter) contains 23 grams. pure high-quality protein and a minimum of fat (2 grams); carbohydrate is only 3 grams. In this case, the body will receive 120 calories of energy.

The cost of SynTrax Matrix is ​​another pleasant aspect, for a package of 2.45 kg you need to pay only 2670 rubles.

Rule 1 R1 Protein

Rating: 4.7

The rating is completed by the multicomponent Rule 1 R1 Protein protein, consisting of an isolate of various highly purified proteins with an increased dose of L-Glutamine and BCAA, amino acids necessary for the body. One serving of 30.1 grams. contains 100 kcal with the total unit of carbohydrates and the complete absence of fat. The product is easy to prepare, even in cold water - the powder is completely dissolved and homogenized, no lumps in a shaker!

The cost of the multi-component protein R1 Protein from Rule is about 2692 rubles.

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Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.