If fitness is important to you (and we know that it is), then you’ve already come to respect the power that protein can provide for training. After all, the nutrient is crucial when it comes to repairing and maintaining muscle tissue. But protein also plays a part in nearly every cellular role, from organ function to helping your immune system stay strong and even giving your hair a healthy glow.
Active women need to make sure to get enough protein; if you hit the gym or train at least twice a week, try to take in at least 0.6–0.9 grams of protein per pound of body weight. (For a 130-pound woman, that’s 78–117g daily. The more active you are, the higher the recommended range.) It’s important to make sure your protein sources are from clean foods, such as lean meat, chicken, or fish; vegetarian sources like nuts and legumes; or eggs and dairy, like yogurt and milk.
Still, in our active lives we can’t always ensure we have enough protein-rich meals and snacks at the ready. That’s one reason shelves are often filled with protein-heavy products like bars and ready-to-drink beverages. And if you’re looking for a clean protein source, without any artificial additives, this ready-to-drink beverage is a great choice.
Clean Up Your Ready-to-Drink Protein
Defy the trend toward artificial ingredients with Isopure Natural Flavor RTD. (theisopurecompany.com)
What it has: 20g of whey isolate protein per bottle with only 5g of sugar.
What it lacks: Any artificial sweeteners or colors. Isopure is sweetened with only natural cane syrup and monk fruit extract (150–200 times sweeter than sugar), for a quality protein source with minimal processing. Available in Alpine Punch and Grape Frost; grab it after a workout, or freeze in an ice-cube tray for protein-packed ice pops.
