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Sports supplements: how to choose a formula suited to your goals

Whey protein, BCAA, creatine, micellar casein, magnesium or zinc: the range of sports supplements has grown considerably. The wider choice is welcome, but it can also make buying more complicated when packaging is covered in promises that are difficult to compare.

Before filling your basket, check three essential points: the actual amount of active ingredients per serving, the full composition and whether the product fits with your diet. A protein supplement can help you reach your daily intake, but it will never replace a varied diet or a suitable training programme.

Common pitfalls in sports nutrition

1. Confusing the tub’s weight with the amount that is actually useful

A larger format is not necessarily the best value. To compare two products, look instead at:

  • the actual number of servings;
  • the weight of one serving;
  • the amount of protein, amino acids or creatine per serving;
  • the price per 100 g of product or per serving.

A powder providing 22 to 24 g of protein per serving therefore offers a much clearer basis for comparison than a simple claim such as ‘high in protein’.

2. Being won over by a highlighted ingredient

The presence of BCAA, L-glutamine or marine collagen is not enough to determine whether a product is suitable. Take the time to check the ingredients list and nutrition table: some formulas combine several active ingredients, while others focus on a simpler composition.

Also pay attention to sweeteners, flavourings, sodium and allergens. Milk and soya are particularly common in whey proteins and some amino acid formulas.

3. Overlooking the format and when to take it

A powder that needs mixing is best suited to those who have a shaker to hand and a few minutes to spare. Individual sachets are more convenient when you are out and about, while capsules may be preferable if you would rather not drink a flavoured preparation.

The suggested time of use on the packaging is a recommendation, not a rule that applies to everyone. Your total daily intake and a consistent diet remain the most important factors in supporting recovery and preserving muscle mass.

Criteria to check before buying

The source and amount of protein

For a protein powder, distinguish between:

  • whey isolate: generally more concentrated in protein;
  • whey concentrate: very common in blends;
  • hydrolysed whey: a protein that has undergone pre-treatment during manufacture;
  • micellar casein: a dairy protein with slower digestion, according to the manufacturer’s information.

In the products featured below, a 28 to 33 g serving provides approximately 22 to 24 g of protein. Also check the carbohydrate, sugar, fat and salt content, particularly if you are carefully tracking your intake during a bulking phase or a period of dietary control.

Amino acid composition

BCAA comprise leucine, isoleucine and valine. A formula may, for example, display a 2:1:1 ratio, like BODY&FIT BCAA Amino, which provides 8 g of BCAA per 15 g serving. This type of information lets you compare products based on more than the size of the tub alone.

L-glutamine, glycine and HMB do not serve the same purposes. There is no need to add them automatically to a whey that already naturally contains many amino acids.

Information to check on the label

In France and the European Union, check that the following details are provided:

  • the recommended daily intake;
  • warnings and the intended population;
  • the list of allergens;
  • the batch number and best-before date;
  • storage conditions;
  • the identity of the manufacturer or the responsible person in the European Union.

A food supplement must be used in accordance with the instructions on its label. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, taking medication, have a known medical condition or are unsure about a high intake of vitamins and minerals, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Our selection based on your profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
BODY & FIT Whey Perfection Cookies & Cream Milkshake 2260 g

BODY & FIT Whey Perfection Cookies & Cream Milkshake 2260 g

Why this choice suits this profile : With around 81 servings, this large format is ideal for regular use at home. Each 28 g serving provides 22 g of protein from a blend of whey isolate, concentrate and hydrolysate.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The number of servings and nutritional values per serving are clearly stated. You can therefore estimate the cost per use rather than comparing tubs based solely on their weight.

Main benefit and key features

22 g of protein, 5 g of naturally occurring BCAA and a formula described as low in sugar and fat. Contains milk and soya.

Recommended for : Fans of premium products
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Double Rich Chocolate 2.02 kg

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Double Rich Chocolate 2.02 kg

Why this choice suits this profile : Its 2.02 kg format and whey protein blend are designed for regular athletes who prefer to space out their purchases.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The table details the 24 g of protein per 30 g serving, along with the carbohydrate, fat and salt content. Precise information is much more useful than a general claim.

Main benefit and key features

24 g of protein, 5.5 g of BCAA and approximately 116 kcal per serving according to the information provided. Contains milk and soya.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein Strawberry Delight 924 g

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Casein Strawberry Delight 924 g

Why this choice suits this profile : Micellar casein is suited to those looking for a slower-digesting protein, particularly in the evening, in line with the product’s instructions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the serving size, 33 g, and its protein content, 24 g. You therefore have concrete figures rather than a simple promise of prolonged release.

Main benefit and key features

24 g of casein per serving, 0.6 g of fat, plus magnesium and zinc listed in the nutrition table. Contains milk.

Recommended for : Frequent travel and varied training
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Vanilla Ice Cream sachets

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein, 24 x 31 g sachets

Why this choice suits this profile : Individual sachets slip easily into a gym bag, desk drawer or suitcase. There is no need to carry a bulky tub.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Each sachet contains a clearly defined 31 g serving. You avoid approximate measurements when you have neither scales nor a scoop.

Main benefit and key features

24 g of protein and 5.5 g of BCAA per sachet, with a blend of whey isolate, concentrate and hydrolysed whey. Contains milk and soya.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a complete, real-time-updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety requirements.

Frequently asked questions about sports supplements

Which protein should you choose for bulking or maintaining muscle?

Start by looking at your diet as a whole. Whey can supplement a day when your protein intake is too low, while micellar casein may be suitable for taking in the evening. Above all, compare the amount of protein per serving, calories, sugar and allergens.

Are BCAA essential when taking whey protein?

Not necessarily. Whey already contains amino acids, including naturally occurring BCAA. A dedicated formula may nevertheless suit your preferred format or be useful around your training session. Before choosing, check the actual amount of leucine, isoleucine and valine per serving.

How long can protein powder be kept after opening?

Follow the date shown on the packaging and the storage conditions specified by the manufacturer. Close the container carefully and keep it in a cool, dry place away from moisture and light. Powder that has absorbed moisture may form lumps; however, this alone is not enough to assess its quality. Check the label before use.