These ingredients should be in your fat burners so you see only the best results.
Most of us struggle with losing fat and turn to fat burners as a supplemental aid. We train hard, focus on a strict diet, and have the right mindset to tackle all that we need to but it just doesn’t seem to be enough. So, we turn to those supplements that we feel are best to assist us on our journey. While a fat burner isn’t a magic pill to suddenly look cut, it can give us that boost we need to start to shed calories and burn away that unwanted fat.
A good fat burner will provide us with premium ingredients to kickstart our metabolism and suppress appetite, among other benefits, as we seek that extra boost. What comes in your supplement matters for it affects not only your results, but your overall health. Losing fat can be hard, but for those of us dedicated bodybuilders and athletes, it is essential that we hold as little fat as possible. The results we want most matter and having a supplement like a fat burner by our side can make all the difference.
Let’s take a look at the best ingredients for fat burning supplements so you know what to look for. Companies may try and pull a fast one by sneaking ingredients in your supplement that just don’t need to be there and if you know what to look for, you can better monitor which supplements you choose to buy.
All About Fat Burners
Fat burners are highly effective supplements for those looking to burn fat and work towards that desired physique. Typically in pill form, these do come in powder on some occasions, but either way you get a healthy dose of great ingredients all working towards your fat loss goals. When it comes to fat burners, however, often times companies may try and sneak certain ingredients in that just don’t need to be there. That is why knowing what is in your supplement can greatly benefit you as you look to maximize training and performance, as well as optimize your overall health.
With plenty of benefits, fat burning supplements can:
Maintain lean muscle for better muscle maintenance and to preserve your hard earned gains.
Suppress appetite to eliminate hunger and snacking.
Boost cognitive function as a result of increased energy and more focus and alertness.
Check out our list of the Best Fat Burners for more great products!
Key Ingredients To Look For In Fat Burners
Let’s take a look at some key ingredients to look for in your fat burners. With powerful formulas all containing great ingredients, it can be hard to choose which supplement is better. We’re here to help with this ingredient guide so you know exactly what to look for.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a great ingredient for it will increase thermogenesis for better fat burn and energy. It will also increase your level of alertness and raise focus for better cognitive function (1).
Cayenne Pepper Extract
Cayenne pepper extract works to increase your metabolism for better calorie burn and as a natural ingredient, you are getting the benefits in a safe and effective way. It will also work to increase thermogenesis.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is another great natural ingredient to enhance thermogenesis in your body and provide you with powerful antioxidants (2).
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine works to move fatty acids around to promote fat breakdown and make weight loss more efficient. By doing this, it increases energy and allows you to train harder, thus burning more calories.
Forskolin
Forskolin is one of those appetite suppression and craving-control ingredients. By working to lessen hunger you work towards better weight management. This works by releasing stored fat which will then be used for energy.
L-Theanine
L-theanine works to lower blood pressure and counteract the effects of caffeine, being jitters and possible crashes. However, you still have the positive benefit of increased energy (3).
5-HTP
5-HTP, short for 5-hydroxytryptohan, can work towards appetite suppression and weight loss by eliminating snacking.
HMB
HMB is a great aid in cutting calories and working to preserve lean body mass while promoting muscle maintenance. This ensures you work towards more definition and that sculpted physique (4).
Glucomannan
Glucomannan acts as a sugar reductor and can lead to less snacking while curbing your appetite so you only feel hungry when you actually need to.
Synephrine
Synephrine helps weight loss by increasing your metabolism and working towards fat breakdown and is a powerful ingredient in these supplements (5).
Best Fat Burning Supplements For Weight Loss & Physique Goals
When all is said and done, proper training and a strict diet are what you need to lose that desired fat for the best results. But fat burners can give you that boost you want most by kickstarting your metabolism and working to burn more calories all while keeping on that lean muscle. A good fat burner will certainly help get the job done, but as said before, it isn’t necessarily a magic pill. It is just another way to help you on your weight loss journey. If you are sensitive to stimulants or avoiding them, there are stimulant-free fat burners that can provide for the same results.
For those interested in a more natural approach, consider a CLA supplement, for it can work towards your weight loss goals in tandem with your diet.
Check out our list of the Best Fat Burners for more great fat burning products!
Wrap Up
When it comes to our supplements we should know exactly what is in them and our fat burners are no different. We deserve the best and by learning what should be in supplements, we can better monitor as we seek to only consume the best for the best results. Check out these ingredients above and make sure they are on the label next time you go to purchase your fat burning supplement.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
Tabrizi, Reza; Saneei, Parvane; Lankarani, Kamran B.; Akbari, Maryam; et al. (2019). “The effects of caffeine intake on weight loss: a systematic review and dos-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials”. (source)
Hursel, R.; Viechtbauer, W.; Westerterp-Plantega, M. S. (2009). “The effects of green tea on weight loss and weight maintenance: a meta-analysis”. (source)
Nobre, Anna C.; Rao, Anling; Owen, Gail N. (2008). “L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state”. (source)
Portal, Shawn; Eliakim, Alon; Nemet, Dan; Halevy, Orna; Zadik, Zvi (2010). “Effect of HMB supplementation on body composition, fitness, hormonal profile and muscle damage indices”. (source)
Gutierrez-Hellin, Jorge; Del Coso, Juan (2018). “Effects of p-Synephrine and Caffeine Ingestion on Substrate Oxidation during Exercise”. (source)
Lee Priest spoke against obesity being considered a disability or disease.
The obesity problem in America has been around for quite some time now and is only getting worse. It is something that has been discussed at length by many and bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest became the latest. The former great on stage weighed in on this issue and stated why he does not believe that obesity should be called a disease.
Priest became known for his incredible physique at a young age. He boasted insane size and symmetry that led to success in bodybuilding. Priest impressed many all-time greats from the time he entered the sport because of his physique. Now, he continues to train and keep his body in great shape.
At his peak, Priest admitted that he did not eat an extremely clean diet but trained at a high level each day. Because of this, he accomplished his goals. If he were to stop, Priest believes he would be able to reach the level of obesity.
“If you stop training and don’t do any cardio and if I just kept eating like I’m eating, putting the weight on wouldn’t stop because you’re not burning off what you’re eating so you’ll just get fatter and fatter.”
Priest continued to discuss obesity and does not believe that it should be categorized as a disease or disability.
Lee Priest: “How Is It A Disease?”
At times, obesity can be constituted as a disease but Lee Priest does not believe this should be the case.
“How is that a disease? Putting food in your f*cking mouth is not a disease.
Stop doing it. It’s quite east. Don’t put as much in there. I reckon the percentage of people that have a thyroid problem, they might take certain medications that make them puffy but really, I’d say that 95% are just lazy c*nts who don’t exercise or change diets.”
Lee Priest began discussing how obesity begins. Genetics play a role in it but he believes that it is also desire and want to change. Without training and cardio, Priest claims that it would not be difficult to gain weight and this become the norm.
“After a while, you don’t care I guess. What feels like crap becomes feeling normal after awhile and then when you get really fat, you’re like f*ck it, I don’t care anymore. Let’s see how fat I can get. That can be an accomplishment.
I always trained but I ate crappy but I’m not aiming to get obese. If I was, I wouldn’t train.”
Lee Priest continues to speak on many areas around fitness and bodybuilding. He possessed one of the most unique physiques in the sport while competing and now continues to have one of the most unique voices there is.
Joe Rogan and Derek from MPMD engaged in a conversation about UFC, steroids, and Conor McGregor’s recovery.
There are some major changes coming for the UFC next year. This involves its split with USADA and working with a new anti-doping partner. This was one of many topics discussed by Joe Rogan and Derek from More Plates More Datesduring a recent conversation on The Joe Rogan Experience.
The duo also discussed how they believe Conor McGregor used steroids to help recover from his leg injury. McGregor suffered a broken leg in July 2021 during his fight with Dustin Poirier. He has not made his return to the octagon just yet but is planning to once he is fully healed. Derek MPMD is in full support of those who use PEDs to return from injuries like the one McGregor suffered. The comments came after speculation of the UFC’s new drug testing being more “lax.”
“I certainly support guys taking things to recover from injuries like Conor did with his leg injury. 100% no question about it. I’m 100% all in on that. That’s the only way. No one comes back from that.”
Derek continued to explain how the new protocols will presumably “adhere to the WADA banned substance list.”
Conor McGregor Instagram
Joe Rogan, Derek MPMD Talk Conor McGregor Injury
Joe Rogan and Derek MPMD went through the history of catastrophic injuries like the one that Conor McGregor suffered.
“No one has ever come back from that catastrophic leg break, the shin break. Not a single athlete has come back from it and performed at the same level. Anderson Silva is the one guy who came back and fought multiple times and he was not the same guy,” Rogan said.
Steroids can help aid in recovery but once an athlete is off them, performance might be different. For McGregor, the results are unknown to this point because he has not stepped back in the ring but Derek MPMD claims that overcoming this might be a challenge in his return.
“To me, his faced looked like the first tie a guy takes gear. Oh wow, you’ve gained like 15 pounds of water.
I just don’t see how you can take two years off, multiple surgeries, get on juice, get off juice, then jump in there against the best in the world. Maybe he can do it but if I was his coach and the option is available, I’d say let’s get someone who is not even in the top 15.”
Joe Rogan has been adamant about certain fitness stars being on steroids over the years. This includes Chris Hemsworth and The Rock. Rogan was also one of the biggest critics against Liver King’s claim of being all-natural before Derek MPMD leaked emails against these claims.
The conversation continued as the two talked about how McGregor could still enjoy an advantage from his alleged past use of PEDs but there is no guarantee.
“Let’s say a guy takes one cycle of testosterone at like a traditional amount that guys use. 500mg is a pretty common bodybuilder starting level cycle. That would gain you a significant amount of lean mass and strength and you would probably sustain that for again, as the hormones work their way out of the system. Even as they residually are leaving, you still have that bleed of hormones that’s sustaining even during your training.”
When Conor McGregor returns to the ring, there will be plenty of expectations for the former double champ. Will he be able to reach them? That is yet to be seen but Derek believes that this will be a big “legacy” moment.
“Conor has definitely got to win when he f*cking comes back. It’s kind of like his legacy. He’s got a lot to live up to.”
When it comes to your bulking phase, consuming the extra macronutrients can be a little difficult. If you are clean bulking, you may not want to eat more and more of clean, whole foods every day. Not to mention, getting full and feeling like you cannot eat anything else can be detrimental for your bulk. While doing your cardio and training hard to keep your metabolism running can certainly help with continuing to eat more, it may not always do the trick. However, MuscleMeds has released a product, FEAST MODE, to really kick your appetite into high gear.
Let’s break it down.
MuscleMeds Overview
MuscleMeds is a company that has been focused on performance for a long time, producing quality products to help you get to where you want. MuscleMeds has been at the heart of improving peak performance for the last 10+ years. Their flagship Carnivor Protein sets them apart delivering an easy to digest, more effective source of protein, but they have since expanded into crafting other products for all different goals.
“FEAST LIKE A BEAST” is the slogan for this product, and rightfully so, as you will be eating like an animal when you are on FEAST MODE. Perhaps the most critical component of any mass-building or weight gaining program is to ensure that you are consuming large quantities of calories, making sure to get in the proper amount of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Without doing this, you will have trouble if you are looking to increase muscle growth and body weight.
Feast Mode does the following:
Increases ghrelin, also known as the appetite-stimulating hormone
Enhances digestionand nutrient absorption to make sure those calories are going to the right places
Optimizes anabolic and ergogenic effects of food that you consume
Increases total food consumption and calories to really help your bulking phase out
Let’s take a look at how FEAST MODE WORKS.
Ingredients
FEAST MODE is a supplement that is packed with an appetite stimulating complex as well as a digestive enzyme blend.
Ghrelin Activated Appetite Stimulating Complex
Prune Fruit
Ginger Root
Fennel Seed
Licorice Root
Bioengineered Digestive Enzyme Blend
Amylase
Bromelain
Protease 4.5
Invertase
Protease 3.0
Peptidase
Protease 6.0
Glucoamylase
Cellulase
Lactase
Lipase
FEAST MODE is a capsule, its non-active other ingredients include gelatin, rice flour, magnesium stearate, and silica.
How to Take
When it comes to consuming MuscleMeds FEAST MODE, it is recommended that you take 3 capsules (one serving) with your largest meals, once or twice daily.
Price
For 30 servings you only have to pay $34.99, but if you are a VIP member, the price is only $23.62!
How Feast Mode Works
In simple terms, FEAST MODE’s Force Feed Technology activates key regulators of hunger, gastric expansion, and digestion to allow you to consume more food and calories. However, we are going to break it down a bit further.
Increases Ghrelin
For those who do not know, ghrelin is the hunger hormone, and FEAST MODE helps to increase the hunger hormone ghrelin. As a result, this has been shown to help stimulate appetite to help you eat more food throughout the day, making your weight gaining much easier. That means you’ll be eating more and ultimately building more muscle mass.
Delays Fullness
Perhaps one of the most difficult parts of gaining weight is getting full too soon, as you are eating more and more and that can take a toll if you are not used to it. Luckily, FEAST MODE allows you to consume larger amounts of food with each meal. It includes ingredients such as ginger root, fennel seed and licorice root to help relax the stomach muscles and open the door for more food to enter your body and fuel muscle growth.
Improves Digestion
There is nothing worse than having bad digestion, and unfortunately this is a side effect of consuming more calories. This can absolutely ruin your bulk, as it can make it hard for your body to keep food down and make the most of it. The good thing is, FEAST MODE features a Bioengineered Digestive Enzyme Blend that is a precisely formulated combination of enzymes designed to survive the acidity of the stomach and work throughout the digestive tract in the lumen of the small intestines to improve the digestibility and assimilation of protein, carbohydrates and fats.
Larger Meals
By enhancing your appetite, stomach volume and digestion, FEAST MODE not only allows you to eat more meals, but also makes room for larger meals and more total calories, so you can increase your body weight.
Personal Experiences
No Generation Iron review is complete without our personal experience, and FEAST MODE is a product that we had the opportunity to try out, and let’s just say it definitely made eating a lot easier.
One of our team members went from 160 pounds to 190 pounds in just three months, and the best part is, it was not entirely fat. That is a major fault of many products designed to help you bulk, they just add extra body fat, but FEAST MODE seems to truly use the calories in all of the best possible ways and helps to put on quality mass.
FAQs
All of that being said, you might have a few questions regarding FEAST MODE, so let’s check it out.
Can I eat whatever I want on FEAST MODE?
Well, yes, you can eat whatever you want, this is called a “dirty bulk”. However, you have to keep in mind that food sources matter when it comes to putting on quality mass and decent strength. If you just eat cheat meals and sweets all day long, you probably will not be making the best gains, but if you are eating quality meals then you are more likely to make sizeable gains.
Are there any drawbacks of FEAST MODE?
One thing to be wary of is binge eating junk foods. Yes, the chances are you will want to be eating more calories if you are using FEAST MODE, but you need to be careful with eating massive amounts of food, particularly junk food. It can be detrimental.
When is the best meal to consume FEAST MODE?
Personally, we place our largest three meals of the day at the following three times:
Breakfast: For energy throughout the day
Pre-workout: For energy during the workout
Post-workout: For additional assistance with recovery
MuscleMeds Feast Mode Wrap Up
To wrap it all up, bulking just became a whole lot easier now that MuscleMeds FEAST MODE is on your radar! It helps to consume more food, and puts those extra calories to use.
Robby Robinson promotes the importance of bloodwork for not just athletes but all individuals seeking better health and longevity
In a recent episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show, host Mike O’Hearn delved into a critical discussion about the often underestimated realm of health within the fitness community. Joining him were bodybuilding icon Robby Robinson and John Tsikouris from Titan Medical, making for an enlightening conversation about the necessity of regular bloodwork as a foundational element of overall well-being.
As medicine, science, and technology advance – individuals have more access to health preventative options than ever before. That’s why Mike O’Hearn has been using his platform to help promote a growing trend in bodybuilding and fitness – regularly scheduled bloodwork.
This week, Mike brings bodybuilding legend Robby Robinson onto the podcast to discuss how getting his bloodwork done changed his entire life. Coming from a different era of medicine and fitness – Robby never considered getting his bloodwork done. In fact, he didn’t even know what that meant. But once encouraged to go to a doctor and being offered a blood test – he discovered a genetic condition that not only affected his bodybuilding tactics but also his general health moving forward.
Embracing Preventive Medicine: The Bloodwork Revelation
Mike O’Hearn passionately opens the conversation by challenging the common belief that bloodwork is exclusive to individuals engaged in steroid or PED use. He advocates for a paradigm shift, asserting that routine bloodwork should be a fundamental aspect of everyone’s health regimen, emphasizing its role in preventive medicine. This proactive approach, O’Hearn argues, is essential for identifying potential health issues before they escalate.
In the fitness world, where physical appearance often takes precedence, the emphasis on internal health can be overlooked. Mike O’Hearn encourages listeners to reevaluate their perspective on bloodwork, urging them to view it not as a reactive measure but as a proactive step toward a healthier life.
Robby Robinson’s Personal Journey
Robby Robinson, a living legend in the bodybuilding community, contributes to the conversation by sharing a compelling personal anecdote. Robinson recounts a pivotal moment in his life when he unwittingly experienced the adverse effects of a steroid called dbol (aka dianabol). After taking the substance, he felt an immediate surge of vitality, only to pass out suddenly. This alarming incident prompted him to seek medical attention, leading to the discovery of his diagnosis—sickle cell anemia.
Robinson’s revelation underscores the importance of regular bloodwork. He admits to neglecting this aspect of health until 1975 when a health scare forced him to confront the reality of his own physical well-being. The lesson learned was clear: bloodwork should not be reserved for times of crisis but should be performed regularly to track health markers and catch potential issues before they become serious.
Since this moment – Robby Robinson has put extra focus (in some ways due to necessity because of his condition) on not only getting regular bloodwork done but also changing his training and nutrition to focus on longevity over short term gains.
The conversation shifts to Titan Medical and hormone clinics, organizations at the forefront of advocating for regular bloodwork. John from Titan Medical sheds light on the prevalent fear associated with blood testing, emphasizing the need to dispel the stigma. He discusses how individuals might appear healthy on the surface, but bloodwork can reveal underlying issues that may go unnoticed.
Titan Medical’s approach extends beyond mere bloodwork, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive analysis of the results. John emphasizes that seemingly abnormal numbers might be influenced by various factors, and ruling out false positives is crucial. The clinic’s commitment to personalized care is evident, with ongoing monitoring and protocol adjustments based on individual responses.
A Comprehensive Approach to Health
John elaborates on hormone clinic offerings, emphasizing that their services extend beyond testosterone and hormones. The clinic provides support with legal substances and peptides, showcasing a holistic approach to health and well-being. By addressing a range of health-related factors, Titan Medical aims to assist individuals in achieving and maintaining optimal health.
Robby Robinson’s Testament to Longevity
Mike O’Hearn takes a moment to commend Robby Robinson’s exceptional physique and health, challenging the prevailing notion that longevity in bodybuilding is solely dependent on excessive steroid use. At 80 years old, Robinson stands as a testament to the effectiveness of prioritizing health through a balanced approach to training, diet, and legal supplementation.
While Robinson openly acknowledges his past use of steroids, he emphasizes the importance of moderation. His enduring health and fitness, even in his eighth decade, showcase the viability of a sustainable, health-centric approach to bodybuilding.
Overcoming Psychological Barriers
John Tsikouris addresses a common obstacle in promoting preventive health—the psychological resistance to bad news. Many individuals shy away from bloodwork due to a fear of uncovering potential health issues. However, the guests stress the importance of facing health concerns head-on, emphasizing that early detection allows for more effective and manageable solutions.
The fear of discovering health issues, they argue, should not deter individuals from taking a proactive approach to their well-being. Understanding and addressing health concerns early on can lead to more effective interventions, potentially preventing serious health complications down the road.
A Call to Prioritize Health
The Mike O’Hearn Show episode serves as a resounding call to action for the fitness community, urging individuals to prioritize their health through regular bloodwork. The guests, Robby Robinson and John Tsikouris, advocate for a proactive approach to well-being, emphasizing that understanding and addressing health concerns early on is key to a longer and healthier life.
In a world where physical appearance often takes precedence, this episode challenges listeners to broaden their perspective on health, viewing it as an integral part of their fitness journey. By embracing preventive medicine and regular bloodwork, individuals can not only enhance their physical performance but also safeguard their long-term health. The episode serves as a valuable reminder that true fitness goes beyond aesthetics, resonating with the idea that a healthy body is the foundation for a fulfilling and enduring life.
You can watch the full conversation in the latest The Mike O’Hearn Show episode above. And don’t forget to check back every Friday for new episodes only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded.
The Mediterranean diet is excellent for heart health, and practitioners drink wine.
When many envision dieting today, they imagine a monotonous, limiting meal regimen solely to shed pounds. Nevertheless, dieting has the potential to be so much more. Not all diets have to be mundane. One diet that involves a good mix of flavorful food that can help you lose weight and improve your heart health is the Mediterranean diet.
What is the Mediterranean diet, and how does it work? In this post, we take a quick look at this meal plan based on countries along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. We also share a sample Mediterranean diet meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
History of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet dates back to the 1950s when Ancel Keys, an American researcher, studied seven countries (1). This study aimed to find a link between their diets and cardiovascular health. Keys and his fellow researchers found that the eating patterns of people in Italy and Greece led to lower rates of heart disease, and thus, the heart-friendly Mediterranean diet was born.
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is based on the consumption of foods of countries in the Mediterranean basin from the 1950s. This meal plan emphasizes eating many plant-based foods, consuming extra virgin olive oil as healthy fat, moderate consumption of seafood and dairy, and low consumption of red meat and alcohol (Italian red wine) (2). This diet is great for the nutrients it provides.
Unlike other diets involving strict formulas and calculations, this diet is accessible and flexible. It’s based on the lifestyles of over 16 European countries, including Greece, Spain, Italy, and France. As a result, the focus is more on overall eating patterns, and you can easily tailor this diet to meet your needs, making it easily achievable. You can also use this diet to vary your other healthy diets so you don’t get bored. The kinds of food and methods of preparing them are numerous to satisfy your tastebuds and improve your health.
Foods to Eat, Foods to Avoid
Are you thinking of following the Mediterranean diet? Below is a list of foods you can expect to eat:
Highly processed meats like hotdogs, beef jerky, and processed sausages
Refined grains like pasta and white bread
Added sugars like soda, ice cream, and candy
Trans-fat-containing foods like fried foods and margarine
Example of a Mediterranean Meal Plan
Planning on embarking on the Mediterranean diet? Here are sample breakfast, lunch, and dinner options you can try out.
Breakfast: Whole grain toast with fruit and a soft-boiled egg
Lunch: A salad made with veggies, olives, white beans, and chicken
Snacks: Cucumbers with avocado mashed with lemon and salt as dipping
Dinner: Sweet potatoes, white fish cooked in olive oil, garlic, and zucchini
Pros of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet follows a meal plan that meets the healthy diet requirements that the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends. This way of eating can help prevent heart disease and reduce your risk of stroke, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. Below are some of the essential pros of this diet.
Effective for Weight Loss
The Mediterranean diet offers healthy food options, which can be an excellent idea for losing weight. This research on the Mediterranean diet and other diets shows that the Mediterranean diet is effective for weight loss and leads to more significant weight loss than the low-fat diet (3).
Supports Better Heart Health
As mentioned, the Mediterranean diet includes foods that support better heart health. 2021 research compared the outcome of people on the Mediterranean diet and a low-fat diet over seven years and concluded that the Mediterranean diet was better at reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (4).
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
This diet reduces your fasting blood sugar levels and improves the ability of the body to use insulin to regulate your blood sugar levels. This stabilizes your overall blood sugar level and prevents against diabetes type 2 (5).
Better Brain Function
The Mediterranean diet involves eating many nutrients for the brain daily. So, it’s not a surprise that this study on the diet shows that people on this diet exhibit better cognitive function, processing speed, memory, and attention power (6).
Improved Mental Health
Foods that are great for your mental health include raw fruits and vegetables. The Mediterranean diet involves eating these multiple times daily, which can benefit your mental health. There are also ongoing studies researching the Mediterranean diet to prevent a reoccurrence of depression(7).
Cons of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet has some cons that could make it hard to follow, especially now. One of the most prominent is that there’s no set food list. With so many countries in the Mediterranean basin, your diet’s food list differs from that of someone undertaking the same diet.
You also need to be careful when looking at recipes for the Mediterranean diet. The research that birthed the diet is from how people ate in those regions in the late twentieth century. As with all other aspects of life, cooking and food have evolved, so finding the exact recipe for preparing a meal like in the olden times might be challenging.
Wrapping Up
Dieting can be part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but you must stick to your diet to see results. This can be hard if your diet is too strict or dull, and many diets have a high failure rate. However, the Mediterranean diet is diverse and can help you continue to consume healthy foods for longevity.
The Mediterranean diet involves eating many healthy plant-based foods, extra virgin olive oil, poultry, and little lean red meat. There has been extensive research on this diet, and health practitioners endorse and even recommend it. So consider adding the Mediterranean diet to your repertoire as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Keys, A., Menotti, A., Aravanis, C., Blackburn, H., Djordevic, B. S., Buzina, R., Dontas, A. S., Fidanza, F., Karvonen, M. J., & Kimura, N. (1984). The seven countries study: 2,289 deaths in 15 years. Preventive medicine, 13(2), 141–154. https://doi.org/10.1016/0091-7435(84)90047-1
Lăcătușu, C. M., Grigorescu, E. D., Floria, M., Onofriescu, A., & Mihai, B. M. (2019). The Mediterranean Diet: From an Environment-Driven Food Culture to an Emerging Medical Prescription. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(6), 942. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16060942
Mancini, J. G., Filion, K. B., Atallah, R., & Eisenberg, M. J. (2016). Systematic Review of the Mediterranean Diet for Long-Term Weight Loss. The American journal of medicine, 129(4), 407–415.e4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2015.11.028
Jimenez-Torres, J., Alcalá-Diaz, J. F., Torres-Peña, J. D., Gutierrez-Mariscal, F. M., Leon-Acuña, A., Gómez-Luna, P., Fernández-Gandara, C., Quintana-Navarro, G. M., Fernandez-Garcia, J. C., Perez-Martinez, P., Ordovas, J. M., Delgado-Lista, J., Yubero-Serrano, E. M., & Lopez-Miranda, J. (2021). Mediterranean Diet Reduces Atherosclerosis Progression in Coronary Heart Disease: An Analysis of the CORDIOPREV Randomized Controlled Trial. Stroke, 52(11), 3440–3449. https://doi.org/10.1161/STROKEAHA.120.033214
Martín-Peláez, S., Fito, M., & Castaner, O. (2020). Mediterranean Diet Effects on Type 2 Diabetes Prevention, Disease Progression, and Related Mechanisms. A Review. Nutrients, 12(8), 2236. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12082236
Loughrey, D. G., Lavecchia, S., Brennan, S., Lawlor, B. A., & Kelly, M. E. (2017). The Impact of the Mediterranean Diet on the Cognitive Functioning of Healthy Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 8(4), 571–586. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.117.015495
Sánchez-Villegas, A., Cabrera-Suárez, B., Molero, P., González-Pinto, A., Chiclana-Actis, C., Cabrera, C., Lahortiga-Ramos, F., Florido-Rodríguez, M., Vega-Pérez, P., Vega-Pérez, R., Pla, J., Calviño-Cabada, M. J., Ortuño, F., Navarro, S., Almeida, Y., & Hernández-Fleta, J. L. (2019). Preventing the recurrence of depression with a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil. The PREDI-DEP trial: study protocol. BMC psychiatry, 19(1), 63. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-019-2036-4
Look to optimize cell performance and boost your health and vitality with this great omega-3 supplement.
When it comes to boosting our overall health and vitality, omega-3 supplements are great to help us do just that. Coming in the form of fish oil and krill oil, these supplements have been used to be the most popular form of omega-3’s for the many benefits it has to your body, but recently, krill oil has taken the market by storm with studies showing it is potentially more bioavailable for optimal absorption. Regardless of what you take, Performance Lab Omega-3 is a supplement taking things to a whole new level. As a superior algae sourced alternative, your getting an ultraclean omega-3 supplement packed with tons of benefits.
Let’s break down all things involving omega-3 supplements, and why Performance Lab Omega-3 stands out above the others.
What is Omega-3?
To briefly touch on omega-3s, there are three types of these fatty acids. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two of the most common types found in certain kinds of fish and other sea sources. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is found in different plant sources but for our purposes, we won’t worry so much about that for now. Each has booming benefits that can really work to enhance all areas of your overall health and wellness as omega-3 supplements have really taken off and continue to do so. There is evidence supporting the idea that omega-3 not not only helps with physical health such as the joints, but also cognitive function.
As stated above, omega-3 supplements are found in fish and krill sources.
Performance Lab Omega-3 is a great supplement to optimize cell performance and overall vitality. Made from 100% plant-based fatty acids, this is sourced from natural algae and is a safe and effective option.
Performance Lab is a leader in nutritional supplements and with formulas that include industry-leading ingredients, their products combine nutritional technology with high-quality and innovative supplements to meet all of their consumers’ needs. Their patented NutriGenesis process ensures clean, safe, and effective vitamins and minerals, and with clean labels that are non-GMO and 100% gluten-free, you can be sure that no hidden agendas lurk in your supplements. Their state-of-the-art facilities are current good manufacturing practices (CGMP) compliant and registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Highlights
Performance Lab Omega-3 is a 100% plant-based, superior algae-sourced alternative to fish oil supplements created to deliver a clean, safe, and effective omega-3 supplement. The ultramodern design and easy to swallow NutriGels allow for optimal absorption so all of these nutrients hit you much faster. Soured from algae grown in their state-of-the-art facility, it is ultra clean and contains no mercury, heavy metals, or other toxic contaminants often found in other products. Eco-friendly with no fishy smell or after taste, this supplement is amazing for your overall health and vitality.
Supplement Ingredients
Algal Oil (2000mg): With Omega-3, you get 2,000mg of omega-3s from non-GMO ocean algae that is pure and potent. This serves as a superior alternative to fish oil and with natural triglycerides, this supplement is easy to absorb with a naturally optimized ratio (2). Not tainted by any toxins or pollutants, you get a clean supplement that has no fishy smell or taste and is a great plant-based source of omega-3 needs. Since this algae is grown in their state-of-the-art facility in the United States, it is traceable from beginning to end so you know exactly where this ingredient comes from.
NutriGels Vegan Softgels: Performance Lab brings you the first vegan, carrageenan-free softgel capsules with this supplement to deliver a clean and easy to swallow NutriGel for optimal absorption. Being ultraclean with great disintegration properties, digestion is comfortable and easy so as to not upset your stomach or any other part of the digestive process. These NutriGels are made from only modified tapioca starch, glycerin, and purified water to bring you a simple yet incredible capsule to take.
Calories
20
Protein
0g
Carbs
1g
Fat
2g
Number Of Servings
30
Price & Effectiveness
Performance Lab Omega-3 is an omega-3 supplement you need to have for it provides a host of benefits with vegan-friendly capsules and an ultramodern design to tackle all of your health and wellness needs. With 30 servings per container, two NutriGels as a serving size will provide all of the nutrients out of this top-tier supplement.
Pros
Ultramodern design with vegan friendly and carrageen-free NutriGels for optimal absorption
Clean and effective with a host of benefits to your bodily functions
Made from algae that is grown in their state-of-the-art facility in the United States
From a reputable company in Performance Lab
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their website
Price: $49.00
Performance Lab’s NutriGenesis Process
NutriGenesis is a patented process from Performance Lab where they mirror nutrient genesis found in nature. So while their vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are lab grown, this ultramodern technology allows for all the benefits of the natural process all while working from their state-of-the-art facilities. Through properly seeding and cultivating these nutrients, live cells metabolize and naturally grow new vitamins, minerals, and amino acids which include proteins, complex carbs, antioxidants, and probiotics. You can be sure your body will absorb these easily and effectively since NutriGenesis works to match whole foods’ natural structures.
Benefits Of Taking Performance Lab Omega-3
When taking this supplement, what you’ll find is a safe, clean, and sustainable product designed to benefit you in a number of ways. Overall, Performance Lab designs and creates top tier supplements aimed at improving performance. Omega-3 can enhance cell membrane structure for better whole body function while also supporting heart health and cardiovascular performance. For those bodybuilders looking to see continued gains, it can support protein synthesis, muscle preservation, and muscle recovery. With a great ratio of DHA and EPA, it will balance your immune response and work to maintain eye, brain, and nervous system health (1).
Who Should Take Performance Lab Omega-3?
Performance Lab Omega-3 is a great supplement for those looking for a high-quality omega-3 supplement with a well-thought out and researched formula for superior benefits. In short, everyone can benefit from taking this great omega-3 supplement to promote their overall health.
Is Performance Lab Omega-3 A Safe Supplement?
Yes, this omega-3 is a safe supplement to take. It’s clean formula design and pure, potent ingredients are based on clinical research and is safe for long-term use.
Performance Lab Omega-3 is a great supplement to work to optimize cell performance and boost whole-body health and vitality. Made from ocean algae, this serves as a superior alternative to fish oil and will work to enhance brain and eye performance, assist in cardiovascular health, and support your muscles and joints. Performance Lab is a high-quality company producing the best supplements so athletes can reach their performance goals. What you are really getting is a top-tier omega-3 supplement that is clean and effective from an honest and reputable company. Check out Performance Lab Omega-3 today and see what this can do for your full body health and wellness.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. “Omega-3 Supplements: In Depth”. (source)
Craddock, J. C.; Neale, E. P.; Probst, Y. C.; Peoples, G. E. (2017). “Algal supplementation of vegetarian eating patterns improves plasma and serum docosahexaenoic acid concentrations and omega-3 indices: a systematic literature review”. (source)
These protein powder for men can work to increase lean muscle growth by pumping you with vital nutrients.
For those of us men who lift big, using a protein powder that suits our manly needs is something we absolutely need, for it can increase our lean muscle mass and can help with bulking needs while pumping us with vital nutrients for other things like recovery. While many of us bodybuilders and athletes know that a well-balanced diet can do just that, having the right bodybuilding supplements to boost our gains is equally if not more important. Here is where a good protein powder can come into play, for it will pump you with vital amounts of protein, especially after a workout, to give your body everything it needs to succeed in terms of sports nutrition. Don’t neglect your gains and really look for the best when it comes to supplements, especially protein.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Men’s Protein Powders For 2024 to seriously boost all areas of your lean muscle growth and performance. Also aiding in recovery, a good protein powder for men is a must have on your supplement shelf to seriously enhance your gains.
Protein is the building block of muscle, so you need to make sure that you are getting enough of it, that is why protein powders are so helpful. Whether it be a vegan or non-dairy protein, or something whey based, there are endless options for you to choose from to fit your diet and lifestyle. Taking in other important factors like weight loss is important as well because your protein powders should absolutely work for you.
Although, some say that consuming too much protein can cause kidney strain, especially in those with pre-existing kidney conditions. Additionally, it has been said that excessive protein intake may lead to bloating and stomach discomfort. It is important to find the right balance and not overdo it when it comes to protein consumption, so that means finding the right protein powder is crucial.
That being said, let’s dive into our list of best men’s protein powders.
Best Protein Powder Overall
Finding a good all-around protein powder may seem daunting, but they do exist. With taste, texture, ingredients, and effectiveness, you can get the best of all worlds with Transparent Labs, an amazing whey protein.
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free, boasting a great formula for a top protein powder. With nothing artificial added, this is a clean protein that is easier on your stomach.
Cinnamon Pastry, Mocha, French Vanilla, Cookies ‘N Cream, Milk Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cereal Splash, Strawberry, Salted Caramel
Number Of Servings
30
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate boasts an impressive array of eco-friendly accomplishments as a solid protein powder for men to boost lean muscle growth. It’s organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. There are no artificial sweeteners — a rarity in a world full of whey protein powder, which are almost always filled with chemical flavorings to disguise the chalkiness of protein. There are also no artificial colorings or preservatives added.
If you have a sensitive stomach, allergies, or just care about the environment, this is an excellent choice for you and your body weight goals and is easy to digest compared to a whey concentrate. Additionally, the isolated whey protein means the lactose content is minimal, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. The powder is Informed Sport-certified, which means it’s been tested for banned substances. It contains 25 grams of protein per serving from grass-fed, whey protein concentrate. It is Informed Choice certified, so you can feel secure that this product is tested for contamination with banned substances.
Pros
No artificial ingredients and a transparent label
Third party tested
Organic and non-GMO grass fed whey low in calories, carbs, and fat
Good choice for those who tend to be sensitive to certain protein supplements
Contains essential amino acids and other vital nutrients
Right amount of protein per scoop per serving for bulking
Not everyone’s stomach will agree with dairy, and there is no worse feeling than an uneasy gut. That being said, MuscleMeds comes to the rescue, with Carnivor.
Rocket Pop, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Vanilla Caramel, Cookies & Cream, Strawberry, Fruit Punch
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 10-12 ounces of cold water.
With 23 grams of fast digesting hydrolyzed beef protein, MuscleMeds Carnivor is designed the individuals who seek to enhance training, build muscle faster, and perform at their best, MuscleMeds puts a focus on what counts so you see results. It comes in numerous delicious flavors, and has no fat and very little carbohydrates, so you can fit this in even the most restrictive diets.
Pros
23g of hydrolyzed beef protein isolate
Non-dairy to eliminate any dairy concerns or discomfort
For those of us on-the-go constantly, looking to a powerful meal replacement can be a game changer for nutrition. Our busy lives deserve the best nutrients possible and Kaged Muscle certainly delivers with Clean Meal.
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is a great meal replacement for those looking to prioritize nutrition while still getting a solid on-the-go meal. With whole food ingredients and 21 organic vitamins and minerals, all of the essentials are covered.
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is for those active individuals who want to prioritize nutrition while still getting a complete and convenient meal for those on-the-go needs. With whole food ingredients and 21 organic vitamins and minerals, this meal replacement has 123% better amino absorption to help build muscle and strength while also keeping you full throughout the day. Fueled with a formula including whey isolate, clean carbs, BCAAs, MCT oil, and zero added sugar, this meal replacement is perfect for fueling athletic performance while providing for a protein rich option for weight loss, digestion, recovery, and other nutritional needs.
Those of us bodybuilders know exactly what it takes to succeed in this grueling sport. Having a company like National Bodybuilding Co. gear their products towards our specific needs is beyond beneficial for our bodybuilding progress.
National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan is designed for bodybuilders to hit their goals faster. A 100% natural and organic powder, this will work for a number of benefits like muscle growth and recovery, as well as enhancing overall performance.
National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan Protein is designed to help bodybuilders progress faster in the gym and with their vegan goals as a stellar protein powder for men. A 100% natural and organic plant-based protein, this works to increase the rate of muscle protein synthesis, optimize nutrient utilization, boost metabolic efficiency, and enhance athletic recovery. Using organic rice and pea protein, this supplement does not produce inflammation and is more bioavailable than dairy.
With 117 calories and 20.5 grams of protein, this powder will work for your overall protein benefit as it helps you adopt a healthy lifestyle and nutrition plan while building muscle and providing amino acids from a protein shake.
Pros
100% organic and naturally flavored with stevia being low in calories, carbs, and fat
Low in calories, high in nutrients while being a plant based protein
Designed for cleaner and faster absorption for better lean muscle growth and bulking
Manufactured to FDA standards and produced by a reputable company
Helps you lose weight and keep muscle while being easy to digest with quality protein
Cons
Only 20 servings per container for this plant based protein
Finally, what we’ve all been waiting for. Transparent Labs has a great mass gainer to really increase your strength and size as you look to bulk. That is why you grind in the gym after all, right?
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is great for packing on muscle and healthy weight. Perfect as a meal replacement or a mass gaining supplement, this product is pumped with protein and no added artificial substances.
Chocolate, Cookies ‘N Cream, Sweet Vanilla, Chocolate Glaze
Number Of Servings
15
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is loaded with everything you need to enhance lean muscle growth to safely and efficiently pack on muscle and healthy weight. This supplement is great for the perfect meal replacement, or a great weight gainer protein supplement to pair with a workout. The pure formulas included with this supplement provide amazing benefits for not only growth and bulking needs, but your overall health and wellness. Mass Gainer offers 53 grams of protein per serving, which is derived from 100% Grass-Fed Whey Concentrate.
At 750 calories for two scoops, you get 12 grams of fat and 109 grams of clean and natural carbs derived from organic tapioca, oat, and sweet potato sources.
Pros
Great for lean muscle growth and bulking
Perfect for a meal replacement or paired with a protein supplement
Great ingredients and nutrients and no artificial additives
Transparent label for honesty and clean muscle building
From a reputable company in Transparent Labs and a high quality protein
While many of us want to bulk, it is important to have an option for weight loss and proper nutrition as well. Protein powders are unique in that, yes, they can bulk us up, but also slim us down with the right formula like Optimum Nutrition.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is a great protein powder for post-workout muscle support and recovery. Packed with 24g of protein, Optimum Nutrition has loaded this product with great flavors so you never grow bored. With no banned substances and an honest label, you know you are getting a high-quality protein source able to tackle those goals no problem.
Pros
Acceptable taste
Many flavors
Good value
Quality protein sources for muscle growth and recovery
Cons
Contains artificial flavors
Contains milk and soy (for those allergic or sensitive)
Plant-based options are huge, especially for those of us sensitive to dairy or on a vegan diet looking for a good post workout supplement with a value on nutrition. National Bodybuilding Co. sought the best approach with this powder to not sacrifice any gains to your strength and recovery.
Kaged Muscle Plantein is a premium vegan protein that builds muscle like whey without the dairy. Superior texture and taste is matched by 300% more absorption so those nutrients hit you harder.
Kaged Muscle Plantein Premium Vegan Protein is a great plant-based protein powder for those looking for a clean, fully disclosed, and naturally flavored supplement. This protein builds muscle like whey without the dairy and is 300% absorption so all those nutrients hit you harder. With superior taste, texture, and mixability, this protein is made with MCT oil and provides a complete profile of EAAs and BCAAs. Being soy, dairy, lactose, and gluten free, this is a great pure plant-based option for athletes of all types.
The benefit of protein powders are that they hit your body fast to give you all those nutrients post workout. Kaged Muscle knows how important this is and wanted to create a supplement to boost all areas of your gains by giving you the best for fast digesting whey protein powder.
Kaged Muscle Micropure Whey Protein Isolate is great for those looking to build muscle from a fast-digesting and pure protein. With an enhanced digestive enzyme technology, all those nutrients hit you harder to amplify muscle growth and recovery.
Cinnamon French Toast, Chocolate Peanut Butter, S’mores, Chocolate, Vanilla
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 5-8oz. of cold water or your favorite beverage.
Kaged Muscle Micropure Whey Protein Isolate is perfect for anyone looking to build muscle with a fast-digesting, pure, whey protein isolate. With 25g of 100% whey protein isolate, this powder has increased protein absorption thanks to a digestive enzyme technology used to enhance all of these nutrients so they hit you better. This protein is perfect for those looking to amplify muscle recovery and lean muscle growth and is naturally flavored with an amazing taste. A premium quality and well formulated whey isolate, this is a great protein powder for men for those fast-digesting needs. Beyond its protein content of 25 grams per serving, this powder also contains 45 percent of your daily calcium needs. It’s also a good choice for those looking for a sugar-free option.
Pros
Fast-digesting with increased absorption for better bulking post workout
25g of 100% whey isolate and other nutrients
Naturally flavored whey protein powder
Cons
Premium priced whey protein powder
Price: $54.99
Use code GENIRON10 for 10% off!
Benefits Of Protein Powders for Men
What a protein powder can do is aid in all areas of your physical and mental wellbeing by pumping you with protein and other valuable nutrients to aid in your overall health and performance, including weight management. From things like lean muscle growth, recovery, and weight loss, a high-quality protein powder can work real wonders for your gains. Additionally, it’s important to note that a good protein powder should be a complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs. This is crucial for supporting muscle growth and repair.
Benefits of protein powders include:
Great source of protein: Protein powders tend to be packed with protein to give you a serious protein boost. A simple and convenient way to get protein, you can’t go wrong with a great shake that is sourced from whey or something more plant-based.
Serious muscle growth: Since protein is essential for muscle growth, having a powder that gives you a serious boost of protein can work wonders for all your bulking and lean muscle growth needs (1).
Enhanced recovery: Protein not only enhances growth but can help repair those damaged muscles. With a top tier protein powder, your recovery goals are right around the corner (2).
Help keep you full: These can help keep you full since protein does a great job with that. It will eliminate your desire to snack and help curb hunger by pumping you with other nutrients.
Aid in weight loss: By keeping you more full and curbing hunger, it will help with weight loss and enhance all those goals so you see that desired physique unfold (3). This can also help with your body composition as well.
Added nutritional benefits: Protein powders contain other vital nutrients that will help you function and can work wonders when it comes to bettering your overall health and wellness.
Protein Sources
One of the decisions you as the consumer have to make is what types of protein source you want for your protein powder. With so many to choose from it can be slightly overwhelming. But think about your goals and what you want most out of a good powder to really maximize the effects so your gains never falter with many types of protein. When selecting a protein powder, it is important to carefully examine the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences and dietaryrestrictions.
The right choice should also align with your dietary preferences, fitness and health goals, and budget. FDA compliance is crucial when choosing a protein powder, as it ensures that all brands and products adhere to allowable health claims and labeling requirements, per Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. Additionally, products are manufactured in facilities that adhere to the Current Good Manufacturing Practices established by the FDA.
Whey Sources
Whey Isolate
A more filtered form of whey, this will limit the amount of carbs and fat so you get little to none. An increased and almost pure source of protein, this is a great kind to keep on that lean muscle while looking to lose weight (4).
Whey Concentrate
This form gives you a healthy ratio of macronutrients while still pumping you with a large amount of protein. This is a great choice for those bulking up and looking for an increase in strength and size (5).
Non-Diary Sources
Pea Protein
A great plant-based option from yellow peas, pea protein offers a complete profile of essential amino acids (EAAs) and will give you great benefits to lean muscle growth and recovery.
Brown Rice Protein
With a high amount of BCAAs, this will really give you a great boost to lean muscle growth and recovery. A source that tends to not have any irritants, it offers a clean source of protein (6).
Soy Protein
Another source with a complete profile of amino acids and protein per serving, this source is great for fueling muscle protein synthesis. It does work best when paired with other sources of protein.
Other Non-Dairy Sources
Chia Seeds
Hemp
Sunflower Seed
Pumpkin Seed
Sprouts
Beef
How Much Are These Protein Powders For Men?
When finding the right protein powder for men, it is important that it matches with what you want to pay. Plus, the benefits and quality of the supplement should be equal to those premium products even if the price is a little lower. Thankfully, it is possible to find these.
Category
Product
Price
Best Protein Powder Overall
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Price: $59.00
Per Serving: $1.96
Best Non-Dairy Protein Powder
MuscleMeds Carnivor
Price $69.84
Per Serving: $1.25
Best Whey Meal Replacement
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal
Price: 44.99
Per Serving: $2.25
Best Protein Powder For Bodybuilding
National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan
Price: $40.00
Per Serving: $2.00
Best Protein Powder For Bulk & Size
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer
Price: $65.00
Per Serving: $4.30
Best Whey Protein Powder For Weight Loss
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein
Price: $37.99
Per Serving: $1.30
Best Vegan Whey Alternative Protein Powder
Kaged Muscle Plantein
Price: $29.99
Per Serving: $1.99
Best Protein Powder For Fast Digesting
Kaged Muscle Micropure Whey Protein Isolate
Price: $54.99
Per Serving: $1.34
What To Look For In These Protein Powders For Men
Type Of Protein
The type of protein matters and this could include whey protein or non-dairy protein. Whey protein contains dairy and is a great source of protein for those looking to increase muscle and recovery, however, non-dairy and plant-based proteins are great for those following certain diets.
Amount & Quality Of Protein
The amount of protein in your supplement is important and the quality of your protein needs to be high as well. A top tier protein source will allow you to get the best benefits possible while also working for your optimal health.
Flavors
Flavor and taste matter because you need to enjoy your supplement, you do not want a protein powder that tastes awful. Try and look for a more natural supplement and avoid those that contain an overload of artificial flavors.
Price & Price Per Serving
When looking at these supplements, your price and price per serving matter greatly. It is possible to find the right supplements at the right price to benefit your gains without breaking the bank.
Safety & Effectiveness Of Protein Powders
Protein powders are safe to consume and will be highly effective as you seek the best for your goals. Taking a protein supplement 15-60 minutes after your workout will allow for all those vital nutrients to really work on your behalf as you seek the best for your training and performance goals. By investing in high quality protein powders, you won’t be disappointed with the results.
How We Choose
When it came to choosing this list, we look at the best protein powders for men and ones that would really work to optimize both growth and recovery, as well as a host of other benefits these whey and non-dairy proteins can offer. We first looked at each brand and studied the ingredients, their reliability, and their mission. A good brand will work for you and the product you take should have a reputable company backing it. By focusing on the ingredients and the process which the product is made, we got a good sense for just how reliable and trustworthy each of these brands are. We know that supplements can be expensive but it is possible to find the right supplements at affordable prices so you get the best tasting products around while still saving money for other things you love with the right protein intake.
FAQ Section For Protein Powders
What is the best protein powder for men?
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate. This boasts an impressive array of eco-friendly accomplishments as a solid protein powder for men to boost lean muscle growth. It’s organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free.
How do vegan protein powders stack up against whey supplements?
Vegan and non-dairy supplements are great products especially when compared to whey. While whey tends to be the protein source most focused on, non-dairy sources have the potential to offer the same benefits while being great options for those sensitive to dairy or looking for a vegan option conducive to their lifestyle.
Do I really need to take a protein supplement?
Taking a protein powder is totally up to you but for the benefits, it would be wise to take one. For those who work hard in the gym, a protein powder is perfect for giving you the best when it comes to your goals. For those looking to gain weight or increase lean muscle growth, a protein powder also serves as a great snacking option.
When is the best time to take one?
It is best to take a protein supplement in the window of 15-60 minutes after your workout. This will ensure all those vital nutrients hit your body so you don’t suffer any loss to your gains and continue bulking.
Wrap Up
Finding the best protein powder for men can be tough, but this list will hopefully help make that choice just a bit easier. A protein supplement has the ability to change all areas of your health and wellness, as well as training and performance and should not be an overlooked supplement for cutting or bulking. For the many benefits and great companies producing awesome powders, you should definitely consider putting a protein powder on your shelf for those post-workout needs. Check out our list above and see which supplement can work wonders for you.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Pasiakos, Stefan M.; McLellan, Tom M.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2015). “The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review”. (source)
Pasiakos, Stefan M.; Lieberman, Harris R.; McLellan, Tom M. (2014). “Effects of protein supplements on muscle damage, soreness and recovery of muscle function and physical performance: a systematic review”. (source)
Leidy, Heather J.; Clifton, Peter M.; Astrup, Arne; Wycherley, Thomas P.; et al. (2015). “The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance”. (source)
Pal, Sebely; Ellis, Vanessa; Dhaliwal, Satvinder (2010). “Effects of whey protein isolate on body composition, lipids, insulin and glucose in overweight and obese individuals”. (source)
Tipton, Kevin D.; Elliott, Tabatha A.; Cree, Melanie G.; Wolf, Steven E.; et al. (2004). “Ingestion of Casein and Whey Proteins Result in Muscle Anabolism after Resistance Exercise”. (source)
Kalman, Douglas S. (2014). “Amino Acid Composition of an Organic Brown Rice Protein Concentrate and Isolate Compared to Soy and Whey Concentrates and Isolates”. (source)
Jay Cutler listed some of his toughest competition during his Olympia reign.
Jay Cutleris one of the all-time greats on the bodybuilding stage and took down some elite competition during the prime of his career. So, who was the toughest competition for Cutler? This is a question he answered on Instagram recently.
Cutler won his first Olympia title in 2006 when he was able to dethrone Ronnie Coleman and end his streak of eight wins in a row. These two developed a rivalry on stage that spanned many years and many Olympia competitions. Once Cutler won his first title, his own reign began when he won four of the next five titles.
It is clear that Cutler’s biggest competition on stage was Coleman but the question is, who else was on the list?
Jay Cutler prefaced the question by saying his answer was without Coleman being put into the equation. Even without Coleman, the list was loaded for Cutler and he began with two competitors that beat him.
“I have to five credit to a lot of people. I mean, I have to give credit to Phil Heath. I have to give credit to Dexter Jackson because both those guys beat me.
Victor Martinez was a great challenger. Gustavo Badell, Gunter Schlierkamp was a great challenger…A lot of my competition but I’m talking about those guys that were close to me in the competition Mr. Olympia.”
Jay Cutler continued his answer by saying he gives credit to each competitor he has ever faced but the “biggest and fiercest” remains clear.
“I have to give my hat to every single one of them. Chris Cormier, to not forget, Chris Cormier, he was one of the best and still to this day, Ronnie Coleman was my biggest and fiercest competitor.”
Cutler has continued to sculpt his physique in retirement and has remained in exceptional shape. He recently took on a guest posing appearance to show the results from his “Fit-for-50” transformation.
Jay Cutler quickly shut down the thought of returning to Masters Olympia this year. It seems as though he is not interested in stepping on a stage competitively but did not throw out the thought of guest posing. Clearly, he is interested in showing off his physique but not on a competitive stage.
Cutler has reflected on his career many times over the years and continues to share his opinions with fans in the sport of bodybuilding.
Metabolic diets involve consuming foods that increase energy expenditure.
Humanity has embraced dieting practices for countless reasons. People acknowledge the significance of food choices, from shedding pounds to enhancing physical appearance, optimizing health, and maximizing performance. And they’re not mistaken. Extensive research confirms that our diets profoundly impact our minds and bodies (1). If you’re in the bodybuilding and fitness circle, you’ve most likely heard of low-carb, high-protein, and intermittent fasting diets, which all fall under metabolic diets and help you lose weight.
In this post, we look in-depth at what metabolic diets are, how they work, and what your metabolism has to do with the entire thing.
What Is the Metabolic Diet?
Metabolic diets are nutrition plans that target how your body metabolizes food. A metabolic diet aims to increase your body’s metabolism to lose weight quickly by focusing on how your body converts food to energy.
Metabolism
Metabolism is how your body gets the energy needed to function by using chemical reactions in each cell (2). In this reaction, calories combine with oxygen to release energy. The type of food you eat affects how your metabolism works. Some foods are easy to break down and metabolize. Usually, calories that are not used, depending on the type of food they come from, get stored into fat and cause weight gain.
Considering the above, a fast metabolism will lead to your burning more calories quickly. This can lead to weight loss, especially when combined with a calorie deficit. A calorie deficit is when you eat less than the calories your body needs daily. This will make your body burn fat stores as energy, leading to even more weight loss.
Details like weight, age, and physical activity level affect your metabolism. For example, being older and heavier lowers your metabolic rate, making losing weight harder. Metabolic diets aim to optimize your metabolism and bypass these parameters.
Types of Metabolic Diets
Metabolic diets go beyond low-calorie foods, and pay attention to your food type. The goal is for these diets to optimize your metabolism so that you lose weight without increasing your exercise or physical activity. Because the foods you eat are meant to speed up your metabolism. Below are some types of metabolic diets.
Low-Carb
High-Protein
Ketogenic
Intermittent Fasting
Atkins
Are Metabolic Diets Effective & How Do They Work?
Understanding the concept behind metabolic diets is essential to understand how they work. Weight loss occurs in your body when you have an energy deficit. People create this deficit by exercising more, which causes the body to burn more energy.
There’s also dieting, meaning eating fewer calories, arguably a more effective approach to creating that energy deficit. Hence, your body has a lower number of calories to burn and store as fat. To effectively do this, you need to know how many calories your body uses on a typical day to keep you at your current weight, aka your basal metabolic rate (BMR). Once you have this number, you can then aim to eat less than that.
Metabolic diets aim to increase the energy your body uses without reducing how many calories you take in or increasing your exercise. Instead, you change the type of food you eat, when you eat them, or how often you eat.
Some metabolic diets, for example, the low-carb and high-protein diet, look at the type of food you eat. Research shows that the body expends more energy digesting protein than it does for carbohydrates(3). As a result, eating high-protein food could lead to a higher energy deficit even if you’re eating the same number of calories as before.
Metabolic diets could also advise eating certain foods at specific points in the day. Eating carbohydrates close to before and after exercising will increase the calories used for energy. This helps to avoid them ending up as fat stores. Moreover, eating proteins frequently keeps your body working to digest them, increasing the burned calories.
Your metabolic diet also pays attention to the type of carbohydrates that you consume. Foods that are high in fiber with complex carbs take more energy to digest than refined carbs. So, a metabolic diet includes limiting processed and junk food.
FAQs
What foods are in a metabolic diet?
The type of food in your metabolic diet depends on which metabolic diet you follow. For example, a high-protein metabolic diet will propose eating lots of proteins with every meal. This could be animal products like lean meats and plant products like chickpeas.
What are the 5 metabolic superfoods?
Metabolic superfoods are foods that are believed to help optimize your metabolic function. These foods are lean meat, legumes, fish, nuts and seeds. As you can glean from this list, these are foods high in protein and essential minerals.
Do metabolic diets really work?
The central concepts of metabolic diets are based on proven science, especially regarding weight loss (4). However, more research must be done on the diets to determine their long-term effects.
Wrapping Up
Metabolic diets aim to increase weight loss by optimizing your metabolism. Rather than solely focusing on creating a caloric deficit, metabolic diets examine the type of foods you consume and when you consume them. The goal is to consume foods that increase energy expenditure without eating fewer calories or exercising more. It’s also important to know how many calories your body burns daily on average before starting this diet to ensure it’s effective and you aren’t eating too many calories.
As with all other diets, your adherence to the rules affects your results. Whether metabolic diets are more effective than other dieting is still under consideration, as more scientific work needs to be done. However, research demonstrates that getting your body into an energy deficit is always a tried and true way to lose weight, regardless of how it’s done (5).
Moon, J., & Koh, G. (2020). Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. Journal of obesity & metabolic syndrome, 29(3), 166–173. https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20028
Kim J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for Weight Loss and Weight Loss Maintenance. Journal of obesity & metabolic syndrome, 30(1), 20–31. https://doi.org/10.7570/jomes20065
Freire R. (2020). Scientific evidence of diets for weight loss: Different macronutrient composition, intermittent fasting, and popular diets. Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.), 69, 110549. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2019.07.001
