A vital constituent of a balanced diet, which helps you both to stay healthy and to build muscle, is protein. Though most of the time healthy and correct food can satisfy its body needs, yet many times the individuals also resort to other form of sources and food products, known as supplements, which help them, attain their needed daily protein intake requirements.

A protein supplement is a nourishment source. It comes in numerous flavours, ranging from fruit flavoured protein powders and meal replacements, to protein bars and weight gainers. All these products are serving various purposes; hence, before you choose to buy a particular product, it is important that you know about these products, their specific use and advantage and then make the final choice.

The most popular and well-known supplement product is the protein powder. It has least amount carbohydrates and negligible amount of sugar; consequently, are quickly absorbed into the blood stream. These products are used maximum before and after workouts. Though, these are generally non harmful, yet it is important that you do a research before you opt for one. There is an array of options available in the market, thus make sure that you have done adequate study and know that which one is well-suited for your needs and requirements.

The other product that is a favourite are the chocolate bars cloaked with proteins in them. Though they do not taste like the original chocolates, yet they are a healthy substitute. Sometimes the makers might add large amount of sugars to enhance the taste; thus, ensure that you read the label and then make a buy. Remember do not choose a bar that has sugar listed in the top three constituents. These bars should be used only for ease, when you do not have proper meal.

For all those who have a hectic and busy lifestyle and are not able to get right amount of nutrition, there are the meal replacement powders also known as MRP. They are not only low in calories, but also moderate in carbohydrates and short in fat. They generally are made of a changed protein blends such as whey and milk. Due to their amalgamation and mix, MRP are a good alternative for a bite between meals.

Last, but not the least are the shakes with a high calorie base, usually in the form of carbohydrates, protein and more recently good fats, known as the Weight gainers. However, make sure you have done enough research and studied before you purchase any of the weight gainers as they have the tendency to make the consumer fat.

The fact is that any protein supplement cannot compensate for food and its nutrition value. However, understanding different types these products and the effects they create will let you make a well-versed pick and you can opt for the one that is well-suited for your needs.