Dietary supplements are a big business. Many people would like to lose weight and these supplements often claim to enable anyone to shed pounds without effort. They sound too good to be true because they are too good to be true. Protein supplements are the best option for a number of people looking to lose weight. They used to be thought of as the province of body builders and athletes, but they have a much wider use than that.

The Many Forms of Protein Supplements

Protein supplements come in many forms and are made from many different substances. This wide range means that people with allergies or lactose intolerance need to choose carefully before picking a protein supplement.

Casein: This protein takes a long time for the body to assimilate and is extracted from milk. Its slow digestion time means you will feel full for a longer time after taking it. Casein is often used as a protein supplement by people on liquid protein diets because it’s good at staving off hunger. Casein is derived from milk, so it should be avoided by anyone who is lactose intolerant.

Casein Hydrolysate: This is a form of casein that is digested more quickly than the standard kind. It even digests faster than whey. This makes it a wonderful post-exercise supplement, but it tends to be more expensive than other supplements. Like regular casein, it is also not for those who are lactose intolerant.

Whey: This is a common protein supplement. It is made from milk, as a by-product of the cheese-making process. Whey can also occur naturally in foods like fish, chicken, or beef. This is a quick-digesting protein, which makes it ideal for a post-workout protein supplement. Those on liquid diets or who are lactose intolerant should not use whey.

Egg: This is usually a powered supplement. Egg protein, also known as egg albumin, is another popular supplement. It takes about a medium amount of time to digest and does not have an adverse affect upon the lactose intolerant. It does affect anyone with egg or chicken allergies, however. If you are one of these people, avoid egg protein supplements.

Soy: Soy is a protein that just about anyone can use, allergies or not. It contains no dairy whatsoever, so people who are lactose intolerant have nothing to worry about. In fact, since it is made completely from soy, vegetarians and vegans can use soy and still adhere to their dietary restrictions. It is also one of the very few complete vegetable proteins, containing all the amino acids your body needs.

Rice: This is another choice that works well for vegetarians, people suffering allergies, and the lactose intolerant. Rice supplements contain no gluten and are low in carbohydrates and fats. Rice protein goes very well with shakes and smoothies and mixes easily.

Blended Protein: Whey and casein are often mixed together. This allows the lower cost of whey, but it still digests slowly, like casein.

Whey vs. Soy

There are some who will swear by soy, others by whey. Both have their merits and their shortcomings. Someone who can’t have dairy will prefer soy, of course, since whey is derived from milk. Whey works quickly, but soy lasts longer. Since soy is completely made from a plant, vegetarians can have it, but whey works well with growth hormones. The harsh fibers of soy can be hard on some digestive systems, but whey is always easy to digest.

Which one is better really depends upon your own personal needs. If you want your protein boost quickly after a workout, choose whey. If you want something that will make you feel full and feel full longer, soy is probably the best choice.

Protein Bars

These used to be products for weightlifters and athletes who needed the muscle-building boost protein provides. Now they are common for people to use on a daily basis. They are ideal for those who need a little extra protein for a number of reasons. These bars often have twenty to thirty grams of protein, but are low in carbohydrates.

Whey or soy protein is usually the base of protein bars, along with a number of natural ingredients, like peanuts or oats. If you are on a low-calorie or low-sugar diet, avoid the chocolate-covered protein bars.

Protein bars make really good snacks for mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Since they are small and easy to carry, they are a great substitute for shakes or smoothies.

Protein Powder

Protein powder is yet another good option for added protein in your diet. There are even flavored varieties that only need to be mixed with juice for a great tasting drink. Others are specifically made to be used as protein shakes and smoothies that serve as a nutritious breakfast.

Protein powder is also good for an energy boost when you need it most. Protein also boosts your immune system, which you might find very useful during cold and flu season. Another great thing about protein is that it helps to speed up your metabolism, which helps you lose weight. A little protein powder in your juice or milk in the morning can go a long way.

Liquid Protein Supplements

Liquid protein supplements are frequently used among athletes and bodybuilders because they are quick and easy to digest and help promote muscle recovery and growth. These also make excellent meal replacements. Like protein bars, however, liquid protein supplements are not only for athletes. Protein is a great source of energy for anyone, and it helps the muscle growth of anyone who consumes it, not just bodybuilders.

Protein shakes can come in varieties that contain no fat and no carbohydrates for those who are looking to lose weight, while those who need them simply for workouts can find varieties that do contain fats and carbohydrates. Just remember that these shakes tend to contain dairy, so the lactose intolerant should avoid them.

Protein Shots

Protein shots are the small version of energy drinks and have a big amount of protein in a little serving. They are great for people in a hurry because they are easy to carry and quick to consume. They also are likely to contain no fats or carbohydrates, which makes them excellent for dieters.

Profect from Protica is a great example of a liquid protein supplement. It is available in several flavors such as Grapefruit-Mango, Ruby Melon Twist, Orange Pineapple, Fresh Citrus Berry, Blue Raspberry Swirl, Cool Melon Splash, Fuzzy Peach Nectar and Passion Fruit. With zero fat and zero carbs, Profect is a huge favorite for many people.