This supplement is most often thought of as a muscle building substance that will help users to pack on muscles quickly while strength training. While this can be true, there are other benefits to taking a protein powder supplement. Many studies and research have been done on the benefits of protein powder and a number of benefits have been found.

Health benefits

Boosts immune system

When taken daily, a protein powder supplement that is taken on a daily or regular basis can help to boost the immune system. This is an ideal supplement for those who may be attempting to recover from an injury or illness. This may speed the recovery of wounds or other ailments by encouraging the growth of new tissue. This can be an important step in recovery after experiencing a serious ailment.

Helps maintain healthy skin

Healthier skin is often experienced by those who take a protein powder supplement. It has been demonstrated that those who eat a diet that is low in protein often have skin that ages and sags faster than normal. A loss of muscle tone and sagging skin on legs and arms may also be noticed after a low protein diet.



A diet that is higher in protein, such as one that incorporates protein powder can help to prevent and reverse skin aging. This can help to repair the damage caused by ailments or a low protein diet and encourage healthier skin. Healthy skin is noticed in a number of ways such as more firm skin that looks younger and healthier. Some may experience fewer blemishes while taking a protein powder supplement, making it ideal for those who suffer from acne.

Stimulates healthy hair and nail growth

Healthier hair and nails are another benefit to using protein powder. Nails that split, break, tear or are brittle are often signs of a protein deficiency. A protein supplement can help to encourage healthy nail growth that is more resilient. Protein powder can also be used by those who notice that their nails do not grow quickly to encourage better nail growth. Healthy and shiny hair can be had by taking a regular amount of protein powder as well.

Supplements

Protein powder is derived from one of several sources. These sources include soy, egg, casein and whey protein, or a combination of several sources. These are most widely available in large containers at health food or vitamin supplement locations. The benefit from the protein powder is the same for each type, but there are different reasons to choose one over another.

Whey protein

Whey protein is often the most widely available and is often the most popular type chosen. This type of protein comes as a concentrate or isolate solution. Whey isolate is ideal for those who may have a lactose intolerance as whey concentrate can cause upset stomach or cramping for some. Whey protein concentrate often has an 80% concentrate while isolate has up to 90% concentrate.

Egg based protein powder

Egg based protein powder comes from the egg white and is considered the gold standard for high protein. While it has been replaced by whey as the most popular form of protein powder, it is still useful for a supplement. This type of protein may be added to other protein to increase the daily value without adding cholesterol.

Casein protein

Casein protein derives from milk, and is often found in cottage cheese and other cheeses. This type of protein powder is low in lactose and can be used to keep the body feeling full while providing fuel. As a supplement, it can be used for slow burning protein that will last longer in the body that other types of protein.

Soy protein

Soy protein is often the preferred choice of vegans and vegetarians who need a protein supplement. During the processing of the powder the fat, carbohydrates and fiber are removed, leaving only the protein. This type of protein does not have the protein profile that other types do, making it important to get a sufficient quantity of protein daily.