Protein Supplements at Rexall
Find your ideal protein supplements at Rexall.
Choose from our selection of premier protein powders, bars, and shakes from leading brands like Vega, Boost, Diesel, BioSteel, BeBetter, Gatorade, Clif, and more.
Now available to shop online through Instacart.
Choosing the Right Protein Supplements for You
Protein is commonly known for its role in building and repairing muscles. However, protein exists throughout the body and plays a crucial role in maintaining other bodily structures such as bones, skin, nails, and hair.
Proteins consist of amino acids. There are 22 different types of amino acids our bodies need to function properly, nine of which must come from our diet. Hence, a complete protein source is one that contains all nine essential amino acids.
A complete source of protein is typically one that contains whey. Whey protein comes from dairy products. It's the liquid that remains when producing cheese or yogurt. Protein supplements can contain different types of whey, but the two most common types are whey isolate and whey concentrate.
Whey isolate protein powder has a higher protein content and lower fat and carbohydrate content than whey concentrate protein powder. Additionally, whey isolate contains a lower portion of lactose content. However, both types of whey protein contain all essential amino acids.
Choosing the right protein supplements for you depends on a variety of factors, including your level of fitness, health goals, diet, and dietary restrictions. While whey protein supplements are most common, these supplements may not be suitable for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet. In this case, plant-based protein supplements can be an excellent source of protein.
Plant-Based Protein
Plant-based proteins, such as brown rice, peas, soy, and hemp, are lactose-free and a great source of protein and fiber. Most plant-based protein supplements are not complete protein sources, with the exception of soy-based proteins and some specific mixes of plant protein sources. If you opt for plant-based protein, remember to balance your diet with other protein sources to get all the essential amino acids you need. Popular plant-based protein supplements include Vega One and Vega Sport protein powders and bars.
Animal-Based Protein
Animal-based proteins, such as whey protein, are typically complete sources of protein and contain branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) essential for building muscle. However, many contain lactose and are typically not suitable for lactose-sensitive or vegan individuals. Also, they typically contain saturated fat and higher levels of cholesterol than plant sources of protein. Popular choices of animal-based protein supplements include Diesel, BioSteel, Boost, and BeBetter by Rexall.
Protein Bars vs. Protein Powder: What’s Better?
Protein bars are a convenient source of protein that often come in a variety of delicious flavours.
The benefits of protein bars include:
- Being a convenient source of protein and other nutrients like fiber, carbohydrates, and micronutrients
- Serving as a meal replacement option when in a pinch
- Helping to increase your daily protein intake or support weight loss
- Supporting muscle gain and workout performance for highly active individuals
Protein bars can be animal or plant-based. They often provide less protein per serving than protein powder. On average, protein bars provide 10-20g of protein per serving while protein powders provide 20-30g per serving. Additionally, many protein bars include high amounts of added sugars and unhealthy sweeteners.
In comparison, protein powders offer you more flexibility in customizing your protein intake and you can use them in a variety of recipes such as protein balls, pancakes, or smoothies. Or, you can keep it simple by mixing your protein powder of choice with water in a protein shaker bottle.
While protein bars are still a good option to have on hand, protein powder is generally a better choice to meet your health goals.
