Check the ingredient list. This is the most important thing you should look for when buying a protein powder. There are two different types of whey protein: whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Always buy the powder that has whey protein isolate as the first ingredient. This is a better quality protein and is worth every penny. When it comes to price, quality is important. So check the label.

Step 2:
Determine how much sugar and carbohydrates are in the powder. Make sure there isn't a lot of sugar in the one you buy. Also, sugar alcohols don't digest very well in the stomach.

Step 3:
Decide what you want the protein powder to be used for. Is it for a pre-workout or post-workout shake? Or are you looking for a meal replacement? That's the next important thing you will need to figure out. You don't want to drink meal replacements when you should just be refueling after a workout.

Step 4:
Decide the relative value of taste and price. Taste is very important because you won't want to drink something on a regular basis if you hate it. Some better-tasting brans include Optimum Nutrition Pro Complex in chocolate, VPX zero impact in graham cracker and MHP Probolic in vanilla or chocolate. While a generic brand may be a few dollars cheaper, taste wins. Some stores sell individual packets, which is great because you can try out the flavor before buying the entire container.

Step 5:
Try to drink a protein shake before and after workouts and before bed to preserve hard-earned muscle.