Protein powder: what it is and how much people take
Protein powders are concentrated protein, most often whey from milk, or plant proteins such as pea or soy. Studies have looked at how muscles respond to training and recovery. Athletes are generally advised 1.2 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight a day in total, from food and supplements together. Whey and casein come from milk. For halal, look for a halal-certified whey, as some whey is made with animal rennet.
General information, not medical advice. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking a supplement, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take any medicine, or are under 18.
How much people take
| What studies looked at | Studies have looked at how muscles respond to training and recovery. |
|---|---|
| Other guidance | Athletes are generally advised 1.2 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight a day in total, from food and supplements together. |
| Official upper limit | None set |
Cautions and interactions
- Whey and casein come from milk. For halal, look for a halal-certified whey, as some whey is made with animal rennet.
Quick answers
- What is protein powder?
- Protein powders are concentrated protein, most often whey from milk, or plant proteins such as pea or soy.
- What has protein powder been studied for?
- Studies have looked at how muscles respond to training and recovery.
- Is there a limit for protein powder?
- There is no official upper limit. Athletes are generally advised 1.2 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight a day in total, from food and supplements together.
- Is protein powder safe?
- Whey and casein come from milk. For halal, look for a halal-certified whey, as some whey is made with animal rennet.
Sources
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheet
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ExerciseAndAthleticPerformance-HealthProfessional/
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