Trying to Build Muscle? Here’s the Type of Protein You Should Be Eating

Protein is having a moment—and for good reason. Whether you’re trying to gain muscle or simply stay strong as you age, protein is key for building and maintaining muscle.

But with so many options out there—specifically animal vs. plant-based options—it’s easy to get confused.

So, what’s the best type of protein for muscle growth? Keep reading to find out—or skip ahead to the bottom line.

Why Is Protein So Important for Building Muscle?
The facts: Your muscles need protein to grow. This is through a process called muscle protein synthesis (MPS).1

When you eat protein, your body breaks it down into amino acids, which help repair and rebuild muscle tissue.

“Muscle protein synthesis is a biological process that supports lean body mass maintenance, exercise training adaptation, injury recovery, and the prevention of skeletal muscle losses with aging.” –Jessica G. Anderson, MS, RDN