Protein powder vs. real food protein: Which builds muscle faster, according to dietitians

Everyone seems to be talking about protein right now—and for good reason.

“Protein is the building block of every tissue in our body, from muscles and bones to organs, skin, and hair,” says Rachel Gargano, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D. , the chief registered dietitian at Live it Up. “Not only that, but it also plays an integral role in our immune function , hormone production, and transport of nutrients throughout the body.” Advertisement

But when it comes to protein powder vs. real food protein, is one better than the other when it comes to building muscle?

“A lot of people are turning to powders to get more protein in their day, but there are some key differences between whole food and powdered forms of protein to keep in mind,” says Gargano.

Here, dietitians explain the differences be