Latest news with #MetabolismandCardiovascularDiseases
Hindustan Times
18-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Best whey protein to support lean muscle growth: 8 top picks to try in June 2025
If building lean muscle is your fitness goal, choosing the right whey protein powder is essential. Packed with essential amino acids, especially BCAAs, whey protein supports faster muscle recovery, improves strength, and enhances workout performance. Whether you are lifting heavy or following an intense training regime, supplementing your diet with quality whey protein can help repair muscle tissues and promote hypertrophy. A wide range of these powders with advanced whey formulas are now available to match your specific fitness needs. From isolate to concentrate, these powders are designed to boost gains, fuel your workouts, and help you stay consistent. Let's explore the top whey protein powders trusted by fitness enthusiasts and trainers this season. Whey protein may help improve cholesterol levels, as per a study published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. Here are some of the best whey protein powders that you can try for health benefits. Designed for serious lifters, this clinically proven whey protein powder ensures 50% faster protein absorption and 60% better BCAA uptake. Each scoop delivers 25g of protein with added enzymes for digestion, improving recovery and lean muscle gains. Plus, it is rigorously tested and scoop-on-top ready. Clinically tested Faster absorption Lab-certified purity Slightly pricey May cause bloating in sensitive individuals. MuscleBlaze Biozyme Performance Whey Protein Powder, Rich Chocolate (1kg / 2.2lbs) | 25g Protein Per Scoop | Clinically Tested 50% Higher Protein Absorption This protein powder blend uses ProHydrolase enzyme tech to help your body absorb and utilise protein more efficiently. With 25g of protein and 11g of EAA per scoop, this whey protein powder helps in muscle building and recovery, which makes it ideal for all fitness levels. Informed Choice certified Strong EAA profile Great for beginners Reported inconsistencies in protein content Digestive discomfort for some Bigmuscles Nutrition Premium Gold Whey [1Kg] | Informed Choice UK Certified | Isolate Whey Protein Blend | 25g Protein | 11g EAA | ProHydrolase Enzyme Technology [Malai Kulfi] High on potency, this whey protein powder offers 27g of protein, 5.7g of BCAA, and added enzymes to aid quick absorption and recovery. It is certified by Labdoor USA. Moreover, this protein powder boasts clean labeling and minimal additives, which makes it perfect for fueling intense workouts or filling dietary protein gaps. ALSO READ: 10 kg dumbbell set: Top-rated picks of 2025 to support your strength training High protein per scoop Trusted lab certification Clean formulation Taste too sweet for some Occasional mixability issues. AS-IT-IS Nutrition ATOM Whey Protein 1kg | 27g protein | Isolate & Concentrate | Double Rich Chocolate | USA Labdoor Certified | With Digestive Enzymes for better absorption Made from fresh cow's milk in India and packed within 24 hours, Avvatar delivers 27g of protein per scoop. It is rich in natural calcium and amino acids. Moreover, this unflavoured and versatile whey protein powder is great for adding to your meals or shakes without artificial additives. Fresh and natural Ideal for customisation Lactose tolerance Unflavoured variants may taste bland or odd to some. avvatar Whey Protein | 1Kg | Unflavoured | 27g Protein | 29 Servings | Isolate & Concentrate Blend With 24g of protein, 4.9g of BCAA, and added enzymes, this whey protein powder is a budget-friendly blend of whey isolate, concentrate, and milk solids. It is great for lean muscle gain, recovery, and even protein desserts. Moreover, it mixes well and satisfies your macro goals. Good price-to-quality ratio Tasty flavours Suitable for daily use Digestive discomfort like bloating or pain reported by some. NAKPRO Impact Whey Protein 1kg | Isolate & Concentrate | 24g Protein & 4.9g BCAA | With Digestive Enzymes for better Absorption | NABL Lab Tested 100% Authentic Supplement Powder - Chocolate Flavour A clean, lactose-free isolate packed with 25g of protein, Isopure also adds immune-boosting vitamins and biotin for skin health. With zero sugar, low carbs, and easy mixing, this whey protein powder is perfect for calorie-conscious users wanting quality without fillers. Lactose-free Added immune support Low-carb Clean label Some complaints about smell, taste, and broken seals. Isopure Whey Protein Isolate Powder with Vitamins for Immune Support & Biotine- 2.2 lbs, 1 kg (Dutch Choc), Lactose-Free, Gluten-Free, Veg protein for Men & Women. Offer Pack Engineered with 30g of protein and 3g of creatine per scoop, this whey protein powder supports faster recovery, increased strength, and lean muscle gains. It is enhanced with BCAAs and glutamine, which makes this protein powder for women and men ideal for those pushing performance boundaries. ALSO READ: Foldable treadmill for home: Strengthen your joints and muscles with these 8 picks High protein and creatine combo Good for strength-focused users Overly sweet taste Mixed reviews on mixability and seal quality MuscleTech Performance Series Nitro Tech Whey Protein Powder With Whey Isolates & Peptides, Chocolate Flavour Combining 24g of protein, 5g of BCAA, and immunity-boosting vitamins, FuelOne is a solid post-workout option. It is light on the gut, free from sugar and spiking agents, and perfect for recovery and lean muscle development, especially for those watching additives. Affordable Smooth digestion Rich in EAAs and vitamins May not deliver equally strong results for all users. FUELONE Whey Protein (Rich Chocolate, 1kg / 2.2lbs) | 24g Protein 1. Type: Before choosing the best protein powder, make sure to check its type. Choose between concentrate, isolate and hydrolysate to suit your needs. 2. Ingredients: Check the ingredients list of the best whey protein powders. Avoid products with added sugars, artificial flavoured or excessive fillers. 3. Protein content: Look for 20-25 grams of protein per serving for effective muscle gain. 4. Third-party testing: Opt for whey protein powders that are certified for purity and safety. 5. Digestibility: If you are lactose intolerant, opt for isolate or lactose-free options that come with added enzymes. 6. Fitness goals: Choose a formula based on your fitness goals like muscle gain, endurance or weight loss. Yes, whey protein powder is effective for muscle gain. It provides a complete source of protein with all nine essential amino acids, especially BCAAs, which helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis. Regular intake of whey protein post-workout can help repair muscle tissues, reduce recovery time and support muscle hypertrophy. Its fast absorption rates also makes it perfect for fueling muscles after intense training. When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, the best whey protein powder significantly enhances strength and lean muscle growth. Creatine to protein powders: 10 workout supplements you need Best biotin supplements in India (2025): 8 trusted picks to fight hair fall naturally Whey protein under ₹1000: 7 budget-friendly picks for muscle gain The best time to take protein powder is post-workout for muscle recovery. You can also take it in the morning or between meals to meet daily protein needs. Yes, protein increases satiety and helps preserve lean muscle during calorie deficits, making it an effective tool for managing appetite and supporting fat loss goals. Yes, high-quality protein powder is safe for daily use when taken within recommended limits and as part of a balanced diet. Always follow serving guidelines. One scoop of whey protein typically contains 20-25 grams of protein, depending on the brand and type (concentrate or isolate). Always check the label for exact nutritional information. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Hindustan Times
08-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Whey protein under ₹1000: 7 budget-friendly picks for muscle gain
Are you looking for a way to fuel your fitness goals without burning a hole in your pocket? You are not alone. With rising costs of gym memberships and supplements, finding a good whey protein under ₹1000 can feel like striking gold. The great part is, quality and affordability can go hand in hand. From beginner lifters to busy professionals, many rely on budget-friendly protein to support muscle recovery and daily nutrition. This guide brings you the best whey protein powders under ₹1000 that don't compromise on quality or taste. Each option is selected for its effectiveness, clean ingredients, and positive reviews, helping you stay on track with your fitness journey without stretching your budget. Let's explore some affordable picks that actually deliver. Whey protein may help improve cholesterol levels (A study published in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases). Here are a few options for you: Kickstart your fitness journey with MuscleBlaze Beginner's Whey Protein that delivers 12g of protein and 5.5g of EAAs per scoop. Ideal for gym newcomers, this whey protein under ₹1000 supports muscle recovery and energy boost post-workout. With no added sugar or trans fats, it ensures clean nutrition. The chocolate flavour is popular among users for its taste and ease of use. Budget-friendly Great taste beginner-friendly May cause bloating for some users MuscleBlaze Beginners Whey Protein, No Added Sugar, Faster Muscle Recovery & Improved Strength (Chocolate, 500 g / 1.1 lb) Customers' reactions: Users loved this protein powder under ₹1000 for its value and taste. However, some faced mixing issues or mild nausea. single-ingredient formula contains no additives, making this whey protein under ₹1000 a clean and affordable post-workout option for serious fitness enthusiasts. It is a solid pick for minimalists and those focused on lean muscle growth. Pure formula High protein content Budget-friendly option Unflavoured taste may be unpleasant for some Customers' reactions: Customers loved the purity and muscle gain support of this best whey protein powder. Reviews were mixed on taste and mixability. Offering 24g of protein per serving, this whey protein under ₹1000 supports muscle recovery with added digestive enzymes and essential vitamins. Its variety of fun flavours, especially Dutch Chocolate, makes it the best whey protein in India a great-tasting and value-packed option for regular gym-goers. Great flavour options Good for post-workout Includes digestive enzymes Some found it too sweet. There were reports of inconsistent product quality Customers' reactions: Users enjoyed the flavour and recovery benefits of this best protein powder for muscle building. However, some disagreed on digestibility. With 24g of protein and 5.3g of BCAA per serving, NAKPRO Perform is a fast-absorbing whey ideal for fitness enthusiasts. It dissolves well in water or milk and supports lean muscle development. This whey protein under ₹1000 comes in cookies and cream flavour that adds a delicious twist to your workout routine. Fast absorption Solid amino acid profile Affordable pricing Some users reported bloating and sweetness overload Customers' reactions: Customers enjoyed this beginner-friendly whey protein under ₹1000 for its effectiveness. However, reviews on digestibility were mixed. ALSO READ: Protein supplement for gym: Build lean muscle and recover fast with these 10 top-rated picks Muscle Asylum provides 24g of protein with 5.2g BCAAs per serving for optimal muscle recovery. Designed for both beginners and advanced users, this whey protein under ₹1000 is appreciated for its smooth blend and variety of flavour options like Choco Velvet and Strawberry. Moreover, it is great for anytime use. Rich flavour Keto-friendly Some users experienced minor stomach discomfort Muscle Asylum Premium Whey Protein | 1kg, 25 Servings | Choco Velvet | With Genuine Lab Reports | Muscle Building & Recovery | Customers' reactions: Customers loved the taste and mixing ease of this whey protein under ₹1000. It suits various fitness levels. This travel-friendly, sample-sized protein delivers 24g of protein with 6.6g of BCAAs per sachet. Made with clean ingredients and no artificial additives, this whey protein is perfect for people with sensitive guts. Its light Cocoa flavour is subtle and doesn't cause bloating or acne in most users. Clean label Easy digestion Great for travel Small pack size may not be ideal for daily users The Whole Truth Whey Protein Isolate+Concentrate | Light Cocoa 210g (Pack of 6) | 24g Protein/Sachet 6.6g BCAA | 100% Authentic & No Adulteration | Clean, Light & Easy to Digest | Sample & Travel Pack Customers' reactions: Customers loved the lightness and clean ingredients of this best whey protein powder. However, satiety and heaviness differed among users. ALSO READ: 8 calcium supplements to support your bone strength and joint health in 2025 MyFitFuel brings transparency to the table with a blend of whey concentrate and isolate, plus digestive enzymes. With around 14g of protein per scoop and a delicious double chocolate flavour, it is ideal for beginners aiming for lean growth and post-workout recovery. Contains digestive enzymes Good flavour Soy-free Gluten-free Lower protein per serving compared to other brands Customers' reactions: Customers loved the taste, recovery, and mixability of this whey protein under ₹1000. However, some expected a higher protein dose. Whey protein under ₹1000 Protein per serving Digestibility & mixability Unique selling point (USP) 1. Muscle growth: Protein powder contains essential amino acids that play a key role in muscle protein synthesis. This makes it a great tool for building and maintaining lean muscle, particularly for athletes and gym-goers. 2. Post-workout recovery: After intense exercise, muscles experience micro-tears. Consuming protein powder soon after helps repair these tears faster, reducing recovery time and muscle soreness, and preparing you for your next workout. 3. Convenient nutrition: Not everyone has time to cook high-protein meals. Protein powders offer a quick, portable way to meet daily protein goals, especially for people with busy routines or limited access to protein-rich foods. 4. Weight management: High-protein diets increase satiety, meaning you feel full for longer. This can reduce unnecessary snacking and help control calorie intake, supporting weight loss or maintenance goals. 5. Strength: Regular protein supplementation can lead to improved strength, power, and endurance by supporting muscle repair, energy levels, and performance during workouts. 6. Dietary gaps: For vegetarians, vegans, or people on restricted diets, it can be hard to get enough protein from whole foods. Protein powders help bridge that nutritional gap in a controlled, reliable way. A few options for you: Best iron supplements for anemia: 10 picks to restore vitality and fight deficiency 1kg protein powder packs: Top 10 options to try in 2025 for muscle building Best treadmill brands for fitness in 2025: 10 options to stay active and fit without leaving home The best time to take protein powder is post-workout for muscle recovery. It can also be taken in the morning or between meals to meet daily protein needs. Yes, protein increases satiety and helps preserve lean muscle during calorie deficits, making it an effective tool for managing appetite and supporting fat loss goals. Yes, high-quality protein powder is safe for daily use when taken within recommended limits and as part of a balanced diet. Always follow serving guidelines. Absolutely. Many plant-based protein powders like pea, soy, and brown rice are available, offering complete protein sources suitable for vegetarians and vegans alike. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Sydney Morning Herald
25-04-2025
- Health
- Sydney Morning Herald
Is that coffee good for you? It depends on how you make it
Coffee lovers rejoice: your beverage of choice is now recognised as a health-promoting staple. Theories that coffee raised the risk of coronary heart disease have been debunked: a 2022 study by the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who sipped two to three cups a day had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and early death than those who didn't. Such studies need to be read in context. They can't always prove 'cause and effect' as there may be something else about the coffee drinkers' lifestyle that keeps them healthy – perhaps they have better diets overall than non-coffee drinkers. It's encouraging for those who enjoy a flat white though. Now new research shows that it's not just whether you drink coffee that matters to your health, the way you brew it can have a significant effect on your cholesterol levels and heart health too. The study, released in March from Uppsala University in Sweden and published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found that some methods of coffee preparation can have the unwelcome outcome of raising your low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (aka LDL or 'bad' cholesterol). The researchers suggested a hierarchy of cholesterol-friendly ways of coffee preparation. At the 'bad' end lies Turkish-style boiled and some office-machine coffees, with filtered coffee coming out as the best option, and other methods somewhere in between. Why does coffee spike your cholesterol? Coffee does not in itself contain cholesterol. But the beans contain natural oils which include two chemical compounds called cafestol and kahweol, and it's the mechanism of these on the body that can raise cholesterol levels. Loading David Iggman is a GP, and an associate professor in clinical nutrition at Uppsala University. 'Cafestol and kahweol are lipid molecules called diterpines,' he says. 'They are unique to coffee beans and have similar properties to cholesterol.' Diterpenes interfere with the body's natural processes of cholesterol breakdown and transport, potentially leading to an increase in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while also decreasing the 'healthy' HDL cholesterol. Scientists still don't understand exactly why this happens, but have known since the late 1990s that 'boiled' coffee, made on the stove, is particularly high in diterpenes. 'Many types of office hot drinks machines brew their coffee in a similar way to the boiled variety,' explains Iggman. 'In Swedish workplaces, there are almost mandatory breaks around these machines, and so we decided to test them.'
The Age
25-04-2025
- Health
- The Age
Is that coffee good for you? It depends on how you make it
Coffee lovers rejoice: your beverage of choice is now recognised as a health-promoting staple. Theories that coffee raised the risk of coronary heart disease have been debunked: a 2022 study by the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who sipped two to three cups a day had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and early death than those who didn't. Such studies need to be read in context. They can't always prove 'cause and effect' as there may be something else about the coffee drinkers' lifestyle that keeps them healthy – perhaps they have better diets overall than non-coffee drinkers. It's encouraging for those who enjoy a flat white though. Now new research shows that it's not just whether you drink coffee that matters to your health, the way you brew it can have a significant effect on your cholesterol levels and heart health too. The study, released in March from Uppsala University in Sweden and published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found that some methods of coffee preparation can have the unwelcome outcome of raising your low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (aka LDL or 'bad' cholesterol). The researchers suggested a hierarchy of cholesterol-friendly ways of coffee preparation. At the 'bad' end lies Turkish-style boiled and some office-machine coffees, with filtered coffee coming out as the best option, and other methods somewhere in between. Why does coffee spike your cholesterol? Coffee does not in itself contain cholesterol. But the beans contain natural oils which include two chemical compounds called cafestol and kahweol, and it's the mechanism of these on the body that can raise cholesterol levels. Loading David Iggman is a GP, and an associate professor in clinical nutrition at Uppsala University. 'Cafestol and kahweol are lipid molecules called diterpines,' he says. 'They are unique to coffee beans and have similar properties to cholesterol.' Diterpenes interfere with the body's natural processes of cholesterol breakdown and transport, potentially leading to an increase in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while also decreasing the 'healthy' HDL cholesterol. Scientists still don't understand exactly why this happens, but have known since the late 1990s that 'boiled' coffee, made on the stove, is particularly high in diterpenes. 'Many types of office hot drinks machines brew their coffee in a similar way to the boiled variety,' explains Iggman. 'In Swedish workplaces, there are almost mandatory breaks around these machines, and so we decided to test them.'
Telegraph
25-04-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
Your morning coffee could be causing a cholesterol spike – but it's all down to how you make it
Coffee lovers rejoice: your beverage of choice is now being recognised as a health-promoting staple. Old-fashioned theories that coffee raised the risk of coronary heart disease have been debunked: a 2022 study by the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who sipped two to three cups a day had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and early death than those who didn't. Of course, studies like the above need to be read in context. They can't always prove 'cause and effect' as there may be something else about the coffee drinkers' lifestyle that keeps them healthy – perhaps they have better diets overall than non-coffee drinkers. It's encouraging for those who enjoy a flat white though. But now new research shows that it's not just whether you drink coffee that matters to your health, the way you brew it can have a significant effect on your cholesterol levels and heart health too. The study, released in March from Uppsala University in Sweden and published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found that some methods of coffee preparation can have the unwelcome outcome of raising your low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (aka LDL or 'bad' cholesterol). The researchers suggested a hierarchy of cholesterol-friendly ways of coffee preparation. At the 'bad' end lies Turkish-style boiled and some office-machine coffees, with filtered coffee coming out as the best option, and other methods somewhere in between. Why does coffee spike your cholesterol? Coffee does not in itself contain cholesterol. But the beans contain natural oils which include two chemical compounds called cafestol and kahweol and it's the mechanism of these on the body that can raise cholesterol levels. David Iggman is a GP, and an associate professor in clinical nutrition at Uppsala University. 'Cafestol and kahweol are lipid molecules called diterpines,' he says. 'They are unique to coffee beans and have similar properties to cholesterol.' Diterpenes interfere with the body's natural processes of cholesterol breakdown and transport, potentially leading to an increase in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, while also decreasing the 'healthy' HDL cholesterol. Scientists still don't understand exactly why this happens, but have known since the late 1990s that 'boiled' coffee, made on the stove, is particularly high in diterpenes. 'Many types of office hot drinks machines brew their coffee in a similar way to the boiled variety,' explains Iggman. 'In Swedish workplaces, there are almost mandatory breaks around these machines, and so we decided to test them.' How the way you prepare your coffee impacts your cholesterol The Uppsala team studied the offerings from a number of coffee machines. They discovered that, depending on whether the coffee was brewed by the machines, or filtered by them, the levels of diterpenes were significantly raised. 'Six cups of boiled coffee a day will raise your cholesterol by around 10 per cent,' says Iggman. At the other end of the scale, coffee which is made with a paper filter turned out to be the healthiest choice. 'For people who drink a lot of coffee every day, making it this way manages to almost completely filter out these cholesterol-elevating substances,' advises Dr Iggman. Those who have recently invested in an Aeropress can feel smug. Coffee from a cafetière comes somewhere between boiled and filtered coffee, as do the cups you buy from high street chains such as Pret or Starbucks. 'Some espresso samples also contained high levels of diterpenes, but there was great variation,' says Iggman. 'We didn't look at instant coffee in our study, but previous studies have shown it has a similar profile to filter coffee.' According to Iggman, you can get an idea how healthy your homemade coffee is, just by looking at it. 'If your drink appears cloudy, it probably hasn't been properly filtered,' he says. Does coffee have any heart health benefits? Several other studies have pointed to coffee's heart-health-promoting characteristics. According to the 2023 Coffee and Real-time Atrial and Ventricular Ectopy trial (also known by the snappy acronym CRAVE), drinking coffee might increase the amount of exercise you do. The study, which was published in The New England Journal of Medicine, found that on the days people drank coffee, they took an average of 1,000 extra steps per day. 'Every additional coffee drink was associated with 587 more steps per day,' the researchers say. 'This magnitude of step count differences has been associated with improved health outcomes, including reduced mortality. Presumably, the caffeine helped with the psychological motivation to exercise or enhanced physical performance in a way that made such activity easier or more enjoyable.' The downside was that participants slept 36 fewer minutes per night, on average. What's the best time of day to drink coffee for heart health? A study published in the European Heart Journal in February this year found that people who drank coffee in the morning had a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and had a lower mortality risk than all-day coffee consumers. 'A possible explanation is that consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening may disrupt circadian rhythms (our bodies 24-hour cycle of physical, mental and behavioural changes) and levels of hormones such as melatonin,' says Dr Lu Qi, the lead researcher and director of Tulane University Obesity Research Centre. 'This, in turn, leads to changes in cardiovascular risk factors such as inflammation and blood pressure.' Like the 2022 paper from the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, these latter two studies were 'observational', in that other factors could have affected the results. Dr Qi suggests that further research is needed to work out exactly why morning coffee is healthier. How to master a heart-healthy coffee habit Choose filter coffee and avoid office-machine coffees The study from Uppsala University in Sweden and published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases found filtered coffee to be most cholesterol-friendly while suggesting Turkish-style boiled coffee and some office-machine coffees are to be avoided. Aim for two to four cups 'A moderate amount of coffee or tea, say four cups a day, should be fine for most people,' says Victoria Taylor of the British Heart Foundation. 'Research shows that this level of caffeine intake shouldn't be detrimental to your heart health.' Any more than this might increase heart rate and blood pressure in some people, leading to palpitations. Drink it black Scientists also concur that it's not just the brewing of the beans that affects your heart health. 'Adding sugar to your coffee or tea, or drinking lots of milky coffees, is more likely to be a problem than the caffeine because the calories can add up, causing you to gain weight,' explains Taylor. Ditto the white chocolate mochas and the caramel macchiato, as well as that slice of carrot cake you just happen to have on the side.
