Should Protein Powder Consumption Be Different For Men And Women: Here's Why

While protein powder is a popular supplement among fitness enthusiasts, a lot of people wonder should men and women consume it differently or not. Well, we got in touch with our expert, Ms Tehseen Siddiqui, chief dietician at Saifee Hospital, to understand the reality of this fact. Read on to learn more.

Protein Powder: Do You Need To Use A Specific One Because Of Your Gender?

Ms Siddiqui said, “Indeed, many women have a lot of confusion in understanding what exactly protein powder is as there are tons of brands and flavours available in the market. It is a common argument that protein powder is very different for women and men as it is argued from a feminist point of view, but that is just marketing.”

Things To Keep In Mind While Consuming Protein Powder

“Protein plays a key role in tissue building and repair, pictures enzymes and hormones, and also assists in boosting the immune system,” shared the expert.

She continued, “Other dimensions that are usually ignored include hormonal influences. The male gender usually has an advantage because they tend to produce testosterone which aids in muscle growth. Also, when it comes to body composition, men are usually thicker than women meaning that their body mass index is higher.”

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Ms Tehseen said protein is just one component; there is more for falling short of the overall needs of calories and the correct ratios of macronutrients which includes proteins, carbohydrates, and fats as well as micronutrients. Due to this and many other factors, while tailoring your diet, you should note that protein consumption is dependent on many things.

• Activity level - more use of the body leads to higher protein consumption.
• Body Composition - muscular bodies usually require high protein essentials.
• Goals - depends on the objective, muscle gain, weight maintenance, or weight loss, where the ratio among goals may constantly change.

Is Protein Powder Gender Specific?

“Not always, as there are some variants that complement the other so are largely gender-neutral. Women who are on hormonal therapy in transitioning could take estrogen-enhanced protein powders only with healthcare professional approval,” concluded Ms Siddiqui.

Are Protein Powders Made Differently For Men And Women?

Varun Suri, Director of Dr Morepen, said, “Protein powders are formulated based on individual nutritional needs rather than strictly by gender, though certain physiological differences between men and women can influence their requirements. Men often have higher muscle mass and caloric needs, which might make them consume protein powders with higher protein content per serving, typically ranging from 25–30 grams. Women, on the other hand, may prefer options tailored for general wellness, weight management, or muscle toning, often containing additional ingredients like collagen, calcium, or biotin to support skin, hair, bone health, and overall vitality.”

“Despite these distinctions, the basic functionality of protein powders remains the same for both genders. They provide essential amino acids required for muscle repair, recovery, and overall bodily functions. Both men and women can benefit from whey, casein, or plant-based proteins, depending on their lifestyle, dietary preferences, or specific health goals,” he added.

Suri said that some gender-specific considerations can still come into play. “For instance, women may prioritise products with lower calorie counts or added vitamins and minerals to combat nutritional deficiencies more common in their demographic, such as iron or folic acid. Similarly, flavour preferences, portion sizes, and additional nutrient blends are often marketed differently to appeal to men or women,” he pointed out.

“It’s important to note that these differences are not restrictive. Protein powders are versatile and can be adapted to meet diverse needs regardless of gender. The best choice always comes down to personal goals, dietary habits, and any specific health concerns. Consulting a nutritionist or healthcare provider before incorporating protein supplements into your routine is always recommended,” concluded Varun.

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