Protein Powders

[Jenny C.]

I've been pure paleo for about two months now. I'm training for a marathon and my long runs are getting into the 2 hours + range. I've been reading Loren Cordain's paleo for athletes and have been reading a lot of web sites for paleo runners. Here's my question for anyone who can help -- what is the best protein powder for someone who is both lactose intolerant and has an egg allergy? I'd like to make my own post-workout ("stage 3") drink with a banana, fruit juice, glucose, and protein powder. But I'm worried about the protein powder making me feel horrible... Anyone know anything about Garden of Life Raw Protein powder? Might this be a good choice?

 

Thanks!

[missmary]

have you done a whole30 yet?

 

Once you have, you may learn that all of the sugar you are consuming on these runs is counter-productive and the protein power isn't needed at all. It's hard to believe until you have tried it, because companies have worked hard to convince people that even the most casual recreational athlete needs supplements and bars and powders to keep going. you don't.

 

Unless you have already gone through a whole30 and you also are having a very hard time eating enough real food to maintain a healthy weight, then no. I wouldn't suggest any protein powder at all. It does take an adjustment period to be come fat adapted, but once you do, you should not have trouble completing a 2-hour run with just some fat and protein beforehand (I do an egg, but something like chicken thigh or sardines+avocado or coconut butter would work), maybe some watered-down coconut water with a pinch of salt during the run, and a nice portion of protein and carbs afterwards (chicken breast+sweet potato is a common choice).

[Jenny C.]

Yes, I have done a whole 30. I'm actually into my 9th week of it. I guess I'm not sure whose advice to follow when it comes to intense training. I know that Loren Cordain and Robb Wolf know a lot about the paleo diet -- and about following the diet as an athlete. I've been following a strict "whole 30" protocol (minus eggs) for many weeks now and haven't found it to be lacking at all until just recently as my runs have gotten much longer. 

 

According to Cordain, "during long or hard workouts and races you will need to take in high glycemic index carbohydrates mostly in the form of fluids." And during "Stage 3" I also need high glycemic index foods. Cordain and other paleo athletes suggest this: blending 16 ounces of fruit juice with a banana, 3 to 5 tablespoons of glucose  depending on body size, about 3 tablespoons of protein powder, especially from egg or whey sources and two pinches of salt."

 

I do feel like my energy is starting to wane as I get past 2 hours -- in a way that it didn't used to before the paleo diet. 

[amberino21]

I'm not 100% sure on whether it's required or not, but to answer your question, Whey protein isolate is generally fine for those with lactose intolerance.

Perhaps check out the other sections on the athletes page for other long distance runners tips and advice.

[Mom2A&M]

In ISWF they have a resource section the the back, and they recommend stronger faster healthier brand whey protein.

[Jenny C.]

Thanks for the feedback.