Supplements
Protein Powder Supplement Comparison – Which Type To Choose?

Introduction
In this article, we will talk about protein powders. You already know that you should increase your protein intake and train hard to build more muscles. In the day, choosing used to be easy, as we only had whey. However, there are so many different kinds of protein powders today it is becoming increasingly challenging to decide which one to take. This article will give you essential information about different protein types, which will help you with decision-making. Let's go!
First Things First: Protein Powder Purity
We will get into different protein sources later, but let's first tackle one thing they all have in common: powder purity. Based on the amount of pure protein compared to everything else in the powder, we have protein concentrates, isolates, and hydrolysates.
Concentrate
Back in the day, there was a massive difference between concentrates and isolates, but you can expect the best concentrates to have more than 80% of protein, with the rest coming from carbs and fat. Considering the price, concentrates are the best option for most people who want to add some muscle mass and don't mind the extra calories from other sources.
Isolate
Protein concentrate that goes through more filtering becomes protein isolate. Every good protein isolate has 90% protein or more, with the best ones reaching 95%. Protein isolates are the best option for people looking to cut or those who are carefully monitoring their diet, for example, those following a keto regimen. They are more expensive than concentrates, though.
Hydrolysates
Hydrolysates are isolates that are processed with enzymes, which improves their absorption, which means they end up in your muscles more quickly. They are the purest protein form but also the most expensive.
Blends
We also have blends, which mix proteins from different sources. However, you need to be careful with these, as they are often the tools companies use to trick consumers. So, for example, if you buy a concentrate and isolate blend, that is a concentrate. And if you purchase blends of different protein sources, read the label carefully. Companies will usually use the lowest quality protein to fill up the content. And whenever you see "proprietary blend" on a label, it is probably best to avoid the supplement, as you never know exactly what's in there.
Must read:: Whey Protein Explained: Isolate, Concentrate and Hydrolysate
Animal Protein Powders
The Reign King: Whey Protein Powder
Whey always was, and still is the best protein powder. Whey is derived from milk in the process of making cheese. The liquid is later processed, and we get whey protein powder. What makes whey the best protein powder supplement is its composition as it is a complete protein source containing all nine amino acids. Furthermore, it is highly bioavailable, which means our body can use most of it, which is a problem with some other protein sources. Whey protein is also highly satiating, which means it will keep you full for longer, helping you stay on your diet plan if you drink protein instead of snacking. Another benefit of whey is that it is one of the most widely spread protein sources, with many manufacturers making quality whey supplements. Whey is nothing new and is one of the most budget-friendly protein powder options.
Casein: Whey's Closest Cousin
So if whey is the king, casein is the king's brother, as it is also derived from milk. But there is one major difference: casein is a "slow" protein. What that means is that casein protein doesn't get absorbed immediately. Instead, the amino acids are released into the bloodstream over a prolonged period, giving your muscles a more steady protein supply. Lifters like to use casein before bed, in order to "stay anabolic" during sleep. That's why it is a good idea to take casein alongside whey. But, if you compare the two directly, whey is a better option, so if you can only take one, pick whey, mainly because they are both milk derivates.
Look No Further, Unless...
So whey is the best protein powder option, and casein is its perfect partner. A premium fast+slow protein, like a one-two punch, right? Well, not for everyone. Both whey and casein are proteins derived from milk, which is a problem for some people.
First, milk is an animal product, which makes these two proteins a big no-no for vegans. The same goes for the egg, beef, or any other protein powder that comes from animal sources. Second, people who are lactose-intolerant might have issues digesting proteins that come from milk. Even though you can try with isolates and hydrolysates which should not contain any lactose, you might find whey/casein problematic to digest. If that is the case, but you still want to up your protein intake, you will have to turn to plant protein sources.
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Plant Protein Powders
Hemp Protein
Hemp is an easy to absorb plant protein which is rich in fiber, but also healthy, unsaturated fats. What's more, those fats have an excellent omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which is incredibly healthy. Because this protein is rich in fiber, it positively influences the digestive tract and sugar levels, helping you stay full for longer. But, the hemp protein has one major issue, as it is lacking one of the essential amino acids, lysine. Therefore, you either opt for a protein blend or eat lysine-rich foods alongside your hemp powder, such as avocados or tomatoes.
Pea Protein
Pea protein powder is rich in BCAAs, amino acids popular among bodybuilders. It also has very high protein content, and our body is able to utilize it to a great extent. Also, pea protein is also a good source of fiber, which means it is terrific for digestion. And it is hypoallergenic, which means it is safe for most people. Similarly to hemp protein, the pea protein is deficient in one essential amino acid, this time methionine. To correct this, you can include some methionine-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, or even rice protein powder.
Brown Rice Protein
Similarly to hemp, brown rice protein doesn't contain much lysine, so you need to combine it with other foods or protein sources. But, it has many muscle building and health benefits, giving you a reason to choose it as your go-to plant protein source. Rice is a good option because it is well-tolerated by many people, as it is hypoalergenic. Because pea protein is hypoallergenic too and has lycine, it is ideal to take rice+pea protein, if you want to have a "perfect" plant protein blend.
One To Avoid: Soy Protein Powder
When you look at the soy protein contents, it seems like a vegan gym bro's best friend, especially considering the price tag, as it is one of the most budget-friendly protein sources. When you compare it to other plant proteins that usually lack some amino acids, soy protein is complete, giving you all that your body needs. While it doesn't beat whey, it is a better protein source than casein. But, there are some significant issues with soy.
First, all soy available in the Western world is GMO. Yes, all proteins are not exactly whole foods, but knowing that the one you drink is 100%, GMO might be an issue for some. However, most meatheads reading WhatSteroids site don't care too much about staying natural, they only care about gains, so who cares about GMO if soy powder is protein-packed, complete, and incredibly cheap, right? Wrong.
The major issue with soy is that it contains phytoestrogens. When ingested, these compounds act like estrogen in our body and can negatively affect testosterone levels. For most meatheads, this is a huge red light. Raising estrogen levels can cause enlarged breasts, and we all know that steroid users often have issues with gynecomastia, even without consuming soy.
Conclusion
That was the most essential information about different kinds of protein powders you need to know. To summarize:
- If you want to gain weight and are not competing, protein concentrate is your best option, considering the price.
- If you are looking to cut, go for isolates, as they contain almost no carbs and fats.
- Also, if you are an athlete, competing, or have a big budget, go for hydrolyzates, as they are most easily digestible.
- Be cautious about blends, as they are often extremely low-quality, read the labels.
Sources:
- Not vegan? Then, whey is your number one choice, ideally combined with casein.
- Vegan, or lactose-intolerant? Your best option is probably pea protein but ideally combined with brown rice protein, as those two give you all the necessary amino acids.
- Avoid soy protein as it contains phytoestrogenes, which can mess with your hormone levels.
Of course, protein that you eat from real foods matters too, and you should always try to maximize it, using supplements to SUPPLEMENT your nutrition, not to replace it. And care about micronutrients too, like fiber, vitamins, minerals, as they often get overlooked by gym bros, who only care about protein/fat/carb ratio. That's it guys, read our other articles if you want to learn about each protein kind in deatail or any additional gym-related information.
Stay strong!
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Creatine vs Myostatin: An Expert’s Analysis

Myostatin, a protein encoded by the MSTN gene, acts as a regulator of muscle growth. High levels of myostatin limit the body's ability to build muscle, effectively putting a cap on potential hypertrophy. Inhibiting myostatin has become a focal point for bodybuilders looking to break through plateaus and achieve significant muscle gains. The question is: can creatine, a popular and widely available supplement, help in this regard?
Medical History of Myostatin and Creatine
Myostatin and creatine, while popular now in the bodybuilding world, have their roots in entirely different contexts:
Myostatin: Natural Muscle Growth Regulator
Myostatin is a protein originally identified for its role in regulating skeletal muscle mass. In nature, it serves an evolutionary purpose: by limiting muscle growth, it conserves energy, ensuring that animals (and humans) don’t expend unnecessary resources maintaining excessive muscle tissue. This was especially important in the wild, where energy efficiency could mean the difference between survival and extinction.
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In the medical field, research into myostatin has focused on its role in muscle-wasting diseases. Scientists are exploring ways to inhibit myostatin to treat conditions like muscular dystrophy, where excessive muscle loss impairs quality of life. This therapeutic potential is where the idea of myostatin inhibition first began—long before bodybuilders latched onto the concept.
Creatine: Energy and Medical Applications
Creatine was originally studied for its role in energy metabolism. It’s a naturally occurring compound stored in muscle cells and plays a critical part in replenishing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s primary energy currency during short, high-intensity activities.
Before becoming a bodybuilding staple, creatine gained recognition in medical and sports science for its ability to improve athletic performance and assist with recovery. Furthermore, in medicine, creatine was investigated for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and muscular dystrophy, given its potential to improve muscle function and brain energy metabolism.
In the sports world, it was initially adopted by sprinters and weightlifters in the 1970s and 1980s for its energy-enhancing benefits.
Both myostatin and creatine have found new life in bodybuilding circles, demonstrating how discoveries in natural physiology and medical science can lead to transformative applications in fitness.
Benefits of Creatine as a Myostatin Inhibitor
Muscle Growth Potential: Research suggests that creatine, when paired with intense resistance training, may inhibit myostatin to a degree, fostering an environment for enhanced muscle growth.
Improved Exercise Performance: Creatine is well-known for its ability to increase ATP production, translating to better performance during high-intensity activities.
Versatility Across Fitness Levels
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, creatine offers benefits that complement various stages of muscle-building.
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Affordability and Accessibility
Compared to specialized myostatin inhibitors like YK-11 and ACE-031, creatine is significantly more affordable and accessible.
Side Effects of Creatine
While generally safe for most individuals, creatine supplementation does come with some potential side effects:
Water Retention: Some users experience bloating due to increased water retention in muscle cells.
Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses may lead to stomach upset or diarrhea.
Kidney Concerns: Although rare, prolonged excessive use could strain the kidneys, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
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Alternatives to Creatine for Myostatin Inhibition
YK-11: A synthetic myostatin inhibitor derived from SARMs, offering more potent results but accompanied by more significant risks.
ACE-031: A peptide that directly inhibits myostatin, though it remains in experimental phases and is not legally approved in many regions.
Natural Alternatives
Follistatin-rich Foods: Eggs and dairy products may have natural myostatin-inhibiting properties.
Resistance Training: Intense and consistent weightlifting alone can naturally lower myostatin levels.
Where to Buy Creatine
Creatine is readily available worldwide. It can be purchased from:
Local Pharmacies and Nutrition Stores: Ideal for trusted and immediate access.
Online Platforms: Websites like Amazon, iHerb, or bodybuilding-specific stores offer a variety of brands and formulations.
Supplement Brands: Well-established brands such as Optimum Nutrition, MyProtein, and Cellucor often carry high-quality creatine.
Legality of Myostatin Inhibitors
Creatine: Creatine is completely legal and widely accepted as a dietary supplement.
YK-11 and ACE-031: These compounds exist in a legal gray area in many countries due to their experimental nature and potential risks. It's essential to research local laws before considering these options.
Best Stores and Suppliers
For reputable products, consider:
Transparent Labs: Known for purity and transparent labeling.
Optimum Nutrition: Offers pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate.
Bulk Supplements: A great choice for bulk buyers seeking affordability and quality.
Our Advice to Bodybuilders
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you are already using AAS or other advanced compounds.
Prioritize a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine. Supplements like creatine work best as part of a holistic approach to fitness.
Stay hydrated while using creatine to minimize water retention side effects and support kidney health.
Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon
Overall
While creatine may not be as potent a myostatin inhibitor as advanced compounds like YK-11 or ACE-031, its affordability, safety, and accessibility make it a valuable addition to any bodybuilder's supplement stack. By leveraging its benefits alongside proper training and nutrition, you can maximize muscle growth and overcome plateaus, regardless of your fitness level.
Bodybuilding Products
Counteracting Anabolic Resistance with Adaptogens in Aging Men

As people age, maintaining muscle mass and strength becomes increasingly challenging due to a natural condition called anabolic resistance. This phenomenon, where muscles become less responsive to exercise and protein intake, can start as early as age 40. However, adaptogens—herbs that help the body adapt to stress—are emerging as promising allies in combating this resistance and promoting muscle health.
Understanding Anabolic Resistance Symptoms
Aging athletes may experience several symptoms of anabolic resistance, including:
Decreased Muscle Protein Synthesis
Muscles become less responsive to protein, affecting growth and recovery.
Increased Cortisol Levels
Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can lead to muscle breakdown.
Hormonal Decline
Natural decreases in testosterone and growth hormone reduce muscle-building capacity.
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Top Adaptogens for Muscle Health
Some of the most commonly used adaptogens include Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Panax Ginseng. Their key benefits are:
Ashwagandha
-
- Supports testosterone levels.
- Reduces cortisol, improving recovery and muscle maintenance.
- Enhances endurance for sustained workouts.
Rhodiola Rosea
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- Lowers fatigue and increases stamina.
- Reduces stress, supporting muscle retention.
Panax Ginseng
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- Boosts energy levels for longer, more effective workouts.
- Supports immune function, aiding in recovery.
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How Adaptogens Support Muscle Tissue and Overall Health
Adaptogens help counteract anabolic resistance by:
Regulating Hormones
Ashwagandha may optimize testosterone and growth hormone levels, essential for muscle maintenance.
Lowering Cortisol Levels
High cortisol can exacerbate anabolic resistance. Adaptogens like Rhodiola and Ashwagandha help reduce cortisol, fostering a more anabolic environment.
Enhancing Energy and Endurance
Rhodiola and Ginseng boost energy levels, helping athletes maintain workout intensity, crucial for combating anabolic resistance.
Boosting Recovery and Reducing Fatigue
Ashwagandha aids muscle recovery, and Rhodiola reduces fatigue, both vital for consistent training intensity.
Tips for Integrating Adaptogens into Your Routine
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To incorporate adaptogens into your daily life, consider these tips:
Start Small
Begin with a lower dose to gauge your body's response.
Cycle Use
Use adaptogens for 6-8 weeks, then take a short break to reset and maintain their effectiveness.
Choose Quality Supplements
Opt for third-party tested and certified supplements to ensure potency and purity.
More Options to Counteract Anabolic Resistance in Older Men
Related Article: Peptides Vs Steroids - A Complete Guide
When it comes to counteracting anabolic resistance in older men, it's important to consider both safety and efficacy. Here are some options that might be beneficial:
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): These compounds are designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids without the severe side effects. They can help increase muscle mass and strength.
Testosterone Boosters: Supplements like Adaptophen contain natural ingredients such as Tongkat Ali, Siberian Rhodiola Rosea, and Elk Antler Velvet, which are promoted to boost testosterone levels, improve muscle growth, and aid recovery.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH): HGH supplements can help increase muscle mass and strength, but they should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects.
Ecdysterone: This compound is found in certain plants and has been shown to have anabolic effects similar to anabolic steroids but with fewer side effects.
Turkesterone: Another natural compound that has shown promise in increasing muscle mass and strength without the harsh side effects of anabolic steroids.
It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and health status.
Recommended Exercises to Restore Muscle In Older Men
Restoring muscle loss in older men can be effectively achieved through a combination of resistance training and functional exercises. Here are some of the most effective exercises:
Dumbbell Squats: These help build lower body strength and muscle mass. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding dumbbells at your sides, and squat down while keeping your chest up.
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press: This exercise targets the upper chest and shoulders. Lie on an incline bench, holding dumbbells, and press them upwards until your arms are fully extended.
Chest-Supported Dumbbell Rows: Great for strengthening the back muscles. Adjust the bench to an incline, chest-supported, and pull the dumbbells towards your torso while keeping your back straight.
Planks: Excellent for core strength and stability. Hold a forearm plank position, keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.
Bird Dogs: This exercise improves core strength and balance. Start in a tabletop position, extend one arm and the opposite leg, and hold for a few seconds before switching sides.
Bodyweight Exercises: Exercises like push-ups, lunges, and step-ups are also beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and overall strength.
Incorporating these exercises into a regular workout routine can help combat muscle loss and improve overall fitness. Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity to avoid injury.
Conclusion
While adaptogens are not a substitute for a balanced diet or structured training, they offer a natural way for aging athletes to manage anabolic resistance. By supporting hormonal balance, reducing stress, enhancing energy, and aiding in recovery and fatigue, adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Panax Ginseng can help athletes, especially those over 40, stay strong and healthy as they age.
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Tips on How to Store Peptides and HGH

When peptides are mixed with bacteriostatic water (BAC water), their longevity is highly influenced by how they are stored. Correct storage is crucial, as improper conditions can compromise their quality and reduce their efficacy.
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Key Storage Guidelines
Room Temperature: Peptides tend to degrade rapidly at room temperature, lasting only a few hours to a day. It's best to use them immediately in this condition.
Refrigeration (2-8°C): When stored in a refrigerator, peptides mixed with BAC water can remain stable for 2-4 weeks. However, some peptides may degrade more quickly than others, so limiting storage to around two weeks is safest.
Freezing (-20°C or lower): For prolonged storage, freezing is the best option, maintaining peptide stability for several months. It is important to avoid multiple cycles of thawing and refreezing, as this can degrade the peptides.
It's important to note that storage guidelines can differ depending on the specific peptide, so always check for the particular recommendations to ensure maximum longevity and effectiveness.
NOTE: Peptides reconstituted with Sterile Water only remain potent for 2-3 days, even under ideal storage conditions. This is because sterile water lacks the antibacterial properties of BAC water, leading to faster bacterial growth and peptide degradation.
Finding Containers to Store Peptides and HGH
You can find containers for storing peptides and HGH at various online retailers and specialty stores. Here are a few options:
Edge Peptides: They offer a range of storage containers suitable for peptides, including glass and high-quality plastic vials.
Peptide Sciences: This site provides information on peptide storage and offers appropriate containers.
Muscle and Brawn: They have guidelines on peptide storage and sell containers designed for this purpose.
Make sure to choose containers that are chemically inert, such as glass or high-quality plastic, to avoid any reactions with the peptides. Additionally, ensure the containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and degradation.
What Would Be the Best Peptides and HGH for Beginners?
For beginner bodybuilders and athletes, it's important to start with safe and effective options. Here are some of the best peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) supplements:
Peptides for Muscle Growth
Ipamorelin: Stimulates growth hormone production, aiding muscle growth and fat loss.
CJC-1295: Enhances growth hormone release, promoting muscle growth and improving sleep quality.
Hexarelin: Stimulates growth hormone release, aiding muscle gain and cardiovascular health.
Sermorelin: Increases growth hormone production, beneficial for muscle growth.
GHRP-6: Stimulates growth hormone release, increasing energy levels and aiding muscle growth.
HGH Supplements
CrazyBulk HGH-X2: Boosts HGH production, increases energy levels, and helps build muscle mass.
HyperGH 14x: Promotes muscle growth and improves performance.
GenF20 Plus: Maintains optimal HGH levels, aiding in muscle growth and anti-aging.
PGH-1000: Enhances strength and stamina.
Sytropin: Supports physical fitness, anti-aging, and andropause.
Summary
Storing peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) properly is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness and ensuring safety. Peptides should ideally be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C for up to 2-4 weeks when mixed with bacteriostatic water, while freezing them at -20°C or lower extends their stability for several months, but avoid thawing and refreezing. When reconstituting peptides, use bacteriostatic water instead of sterile water to maintain potency for a longer duration (2-4 weeks versus 2-3 days). Use chemically inert containers, like glass or high-quality plastic vials, and ensure they are tightly sealed. Maintain sterility during reconstitution and storage to prevent bacterial contamination.
Use reconstituted peptides as soon as possible to avoid degradation in solution. Popular peptides for muscle growth include Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, Hexarelin, Sermorelin, and GHRP-6, while CrazyBulk HGH-X2 is a common supplement to boost HGH production. Always check the specific storage recommendations for each peptide, as they can vary.
Remember, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
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