Back To School Series ’17/’18: My Top Three Favorite Protein Supplements for Women
Back to school season is practically a month long (and warmer) New Year’s Day. You’re super psyched about getting back into a routine of fabulous friends, learning, socializing and figuring out your place in this world – emphasis on the last one! Going into a new school year is an awesome time to get re-motivated and achieve those New Year’s Resolutions you made way back in January, followed for a little while, and then continued living life without the added pressure to be better at whatever it is you’ve chosen. My goal the last few years has been to live a happier and healthier lifestyle, and I’m pretty proud of how far I’ve come – especially these past few months.
During my fitness and wellness journey something I rarely came across on the market were protein supplements for women and girls. Most websites market protein supplements solely to men and occasionally to a co-ed consumer base. Some proteins specifically made for women focus on helping a women become sexy instead of strong, while most of the females consuming protein shakes are dedicated to working out and pushing their limits. Marketing issues aside, what really matters is what the protein is made out of and the impact it will have on your body.
Protein supplements are most frequently made from soy or whey. A recent review article in “Frontiers and Bioscience” found that consuming soy protein and soy products can decrease cholesterol levels in women. The same review article reports that soy consumption can actually relieve symptoms of menopause and osteoporosis. And like most proteins, soy-based protein aids in muscle recovery and maintenance. It is an awesome protein option for vegetarians and vegans!
I personally prefer using whey protein for my post-workout or breakfast shake. According to a study published in Nutrition and Metabolism, people who consumed whey protein supplements “lost significantly more body fat and showed a greater preservation of lean muscle.” I have seen these results while using whey protein supplements in my own daily routine, using just 1-2 scoops a day. Whey protein is also known to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and risk for cardiovascular disease.
Here are my top three favorite protein supplements for women:
You’ve totally seen this protein included in many of my smoothie recipes – and it is for a good reason! This honey-vanilla blend is whey-based and made specifically with women in mind. In addition to providing a great protein supplement, it includes all of the essential vitamins and minerals that your diet needs to strengthen your hair and nails – in addition to your muscles! Plus, two scoops added to 8 oz. of water is just 50 calories. It retails for $52.99 and can be purchased here.
2. Designer Whey Gourmet Chocolate Protein
If you have a sweet tooth like me and crave chocolate once in a while, this delicious and efficient protein would be a great addition to your pantry! I love mixing it in a shaker bottle with coconut water or almond milk. If I have a bit more time I’ll mix it with banana and almond milk to make a yummy protein smoothie! A 2 lb container retails for $50 (but it’s currently on sale for $25!) and you can purchase it here.
When your workout schedule only allows you to workout at 6 a.m. 5 days a week, every post-workout minute becomes essential to help you look presentable while also making it to work on time. When I’m running a bit late in the morning and don’t have enough time to mix up a delicious protein drink, grabbing one of these shakes makes my life SO much easier. In addition to being convenient, this protein is also grass-fed and includes natural and organic ingredients. A variety 12-pack retails for $45.99 and you can buy it here.
Stay Classy! xx