It has invaded every frat house, fitness gym and grocery store.

Protein powders are not only for body builders anymore. (Creative Commons)

Protein powder has evolved from a fitness trend to a widely used supplement. Weight lifters and dedicated gym goers obsess over protein powder but both dietitians and personal trainers prefer natural sources of protein.

Protein helps your body build muscle and tone lean muscle and can be found in multiple foods such as diary, meat, fish and beans but protein powder is a concentrated, manufactured form derived from various sources. 

“Your body absorbs protein better when it comes from natural food products than manufactured powders,” according to Stephanie Kagel, a personal trainer in Los Angeles. However many people do not have time to cook healthy, protein-filled meals and snacks multiple times a day. 

The convenience is partly why protein powder works extremely well for some people. Powder is easy to add to a beverage or healthy smoothie to have on the go. Many brands also manufacture numerous flavors and add artificial sweeteners. The powders are also useful for vegans or vegetarians who might have difficulty eating enough protein, said Kagel. 

There are assorted types of protein powder: whey protein, soy protein, egg protein, casein protein and plant protein. Each type obtains protein from a different source. For example, whey protein comes from milk and soy protein comes from soybeans. Each type of protein also has various brands. Some brands add additional ingredients, like vitamins and artificial sweeteners. 

According to bodybuilding.com, choosing the right protein depends on your diet and desired speed of absorption. Whey protein is usually taken right after a work out because it is fast absorbing, whereas casein protein is digested slower and better before bed.

However soy, vegetable and egg protein are vegetarian and lactose-free options for those with diet restrictions. There are also low carbohydrate powder choices. Kagel recommends Vega and takes it herself, which a plant protein. “Its all natural, organic and vegan,” said Kagel, “There’s a chocolate shake that’s delicious.” 

This is a new weekly health and fitness column that comes out every Thursday. If you have any questions you want to see answered feel free to email me.