If you’re pumped about getting in shape, then increasing your organic protein intake is the way to go to shed the weight, keep it off, and improve your overall well-being.

Getting started may be easier than you think.

Organic protein powders can help provide part of your daily requirements for this key nutrient. And, they are convenient for those who are always on the go.

The Pros of Protein

Protein serves dozens of functions within the body, from providing the building blocks of enzymes, hormones and other compounds to helping maintain correct balances of fluid and salt.

One of protein’s most crucial roles, however, is structural. From skin to bones, protein gives the body’s tissues their form.

Working out is all about the gains—and we’re not talking pounds.

Exercise creates small tears in the muscle fibers. To repair this damage, the muscle packs on extra protein, which causes it to grow. Whether you’re lifting to get a ripped six-pack or want to tone and define, protein is essential in helping to build muscle.

Building muscle also promotes better weight control.

More muscle tissue in the body equals more lean mass—in other words, anything that isn’t fat. What’s more, muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue. That means the more muscle you have, the more calories your body expends, even if you aren’t moving at all.

What you put in your body is just as important as what you do to it at the gym. In addition to eating healthy sources of protein such as free-range meat and wild-caught fish, powdered shake mixes can provide additional protein whenever you need it.

This is especially true for post-workout snacks. The American College of Sports Medicine reports: “Protein supplementation after exercise may have a more profound impact.”

The ACSM adds that getting extra protein becomes more crucial as you age for simply maintaining the muscle mass you already have.

Finding the Right Organic Protein Powder

Evidence suggests that organically grown food is more nutritious since it’s grown without chemical residues. The Organic Consumer Association states: “Studies show that organic foods contain more vitamins, cancer-fighting antioxidants and important trace minerals.”

In addition, the same phytonutrients that give organic plants their superior nutrition also help foster a deeper, richer flavor.

Furthermore, the OCA says consumers are concerned about genetically modified organisms, noting that GMOs are found in “75% of all non-organic US processed foods, even in many products labeled or advertised as ‘natural.’”

That concern extends to protein powders made from engineered yeast. Technically passing muster as “organic,” such yeast-based powders provide little, if any, antioxidant value.

Proteins taken from different sources offer different benefits:

• Almond: Supports muscle strength, plus cardiovascular & colon health*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Pea: Supports healthy weight management & muscle recovery*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Pumpkin Seed: Supports muscle strength, plus men’s & women’s health*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Top-end protein powders also contain energy-liberating enzymes*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. and are unflavored and unsweetened for greater customization. They are also free of gluten as well as yeast and other common allergens.

Looking for a protein powder that's a good fit for your lifestyle? Take a close look at the label—organic protein offers distinct advantages.