When you walk into your local supplement store, there are a wide variety of protein powders that you likely will come into contact with. Do you know what the differences are between each one? It can get confusing if you've never purchased protein powders before. Being sure to inform yourself of the differences can considerably help ensure that the protein you buy is exactly what you need.

Here are the factors that you need to think about.

Whey Protein Powder

Whey protein is made up of about 20% total milk protein and has a very good amino acid profile. It also contains cysteine, digests rapidly and has a full variety of peptides.

When looking at whey protein, one variety in particular - whey concentrate, is of slightly higher quality and will be most rapidly digesting immediately after a workout. Therefore, if you're looking for a protein powder that should be placed right around your workout, this one would be it.

Milk Casein Protein

After whey, another protein that has an even higher percentage coming from milk at 80%, is casein. Casein protein is typically the slowest digesting form of protein, allowing it to effectively deliver amino acids to your muscles over a greater period of time.

Because of this, this form of protein is good to use when you are going to be replacing a meal, or when you are needing some protein right before you go to bed.

Additionally, since there is such a high milk content in this protein, you'll get a good serving of calcium with each dose. For those who don't drink a lot of milk, this really can tilt the scales in its favor.

Soy Protein

The third protein that you'll often come across is soy protein. There has been a lot of controversy over soy protein and whether or not it really is all that beneficial. Generally speaking, you should be okay to take it in limited quantities, but it should not be used as your main source of protein.

Usually women use this form of protein more often than men, however you should not feel restricted if you are a male wishing to use it.

Vegetarians might find that this is the only type of protein they will use, since it contains no animal products, but they should still limit their intake.

Egg Protein

Lastly we arrive at egg protein. Many individuals, especially those who are actively trying to build muscle, will continuously include egg whites (raw or cooked) in their diet. If this is you, an egg protein may just be the perfect fit.

It's a high quality source of protein that is good for those who are lactose intolerant (since whey will not be an option), and will be absorbed rapidly by the body cells, again making it a good option for around the workout period.

So, if you're at the supplement store and are facing a vast number of bottles around you, keep these points in mind. If you are ever in doubt, be sure you ask the sales person as well since they should be able to match the correct protein powder to your exact needs.