Updated: 01/17/2022 17:40:23
Expert: Anton Leonidovich Glinsky
*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.
According to data from the analytical company IndexBox, sales of domestic sports nutrition in Russia began to grow rapidly in 2015. The increase in sales was due to a reduction in imports and an increase in production volumes of Russian food for athletes by more than 3 times. The stable growth of the domestic sports nutrition market fell in 2022. Experts explain this, first of all, by the closure of gyms due to the unstable epidemiological situation around the world. In 2022, the situation with the sale of Russian sports nutrition began to stabilize.
Domestic-made supplements attract the country's athletes at affordable prices. Protein is very popular. But choosing a high-quality Russian protein supplement is quite difficult. This is especially true for people without experience in the field of sports nutrition. This situation is due to the presence of counterfeits on the market. To avoid purchasing low-quality products, we have created a rating of the best Russian protein brands for domestic athletes. We hope the information will help you find a type of such supplement that is suitable in terms of quality and cost.
How to use
Before purchasing a product, you should consult with a trainer, family therapist, or nutritionist. The specialist will calculate the quantity, number of doses, and select the right menu.
Standard formula: 2 g of protein per day per kilogram of weight.
When gaining muscle mass, whey and egg types are suitable.
For weight loss and fat burning - casein composition.
Time of administration: before training, after classes, replacing dinner, instead of a snack. correct calculation - only by a specialist, depends on the purpose of the appointment.
Fit-Rx
The Russian-made sports drink Fit-Rx is presented in several series:
- ATLETIKA. A line of products for professional athletes who need an extra push to reach the next level of physical development. Designed for actively training athletes.
- FITNESS. Products for people leading an active lifestyle. They help maintain a high rhythm of life and achieve your goals. Suitable for those who regularly engage in fitness.
- VITALIFE. Products to keep your body in good shape. Strengthen health and improve quality of life.
Products of the Fit-Rx brand are produced, which since 2001 has represented the interests of many Russian sports nutrition companies. After many years of work in this field, the company decided to launch its own brand. This is what Fit-Rx became - a product of numerous innovative developments, comparable in quality to foreign analogues, but not so expensive. The company's product range includes proteins, creatines, gainers, energy drinks, BCAA and other popular types of sports nutrition, as well as accessories and clothing.
We advise you to study: “Which creatine is better to choose: 15 different forms for athletes.”
iHerb
iHerb was founded in 1996 with the goal of making vitamins, supplements and natural health products available to everyone with Internet access. Today they offer products in various categories: dietary supplements, minerals, multivitamins, conjugated linoleic acid, protein blends, plant protein and beta-alanine.
iHerb is one of the oldest and most reliable sites in the USA. In the “Sports” section you can buy post-workout recovery supplements according to your preferences. Find L-glutamine, creatine and spirulina in the online store for daily use during training.
At iHerb you can buy shaker bottles, protein snacks, serums, growth hormones and boosting supplements to take care of yourself and your health. Brands here include Now, California Gold Nutrition, Jarrow Formulas, Vital Proteins and Solgar. This is the best online sports nutrition store according to the Epicris website.
Body Factory
The Body-Factory website offers a huge selection of sports nutrition, weight loss supplements and proteins for bodybuilding. If you are serious about your sport and work out in the gym, then to move to the next level you will need proteins (whey, beef, oatmeal), casein and egg whites from the best manufacturers: Biotech USA, Newa Nutrition, CyberMass.
They offer free courier delivery throughout Russia by transport companies MaxiPost, SDEK, Boxberry, PickPoint and Russian Post. Delivery is carried out after 100% payment for the goods within 1-2 weeks after the order. If you feel that you are having difficulty building muscle or are not getting good results regardless of hundreds of workouts, then it is recommended to include sports nutrition in your diet.
The Body-Factory store's selection includes pre-workout supplements, post-workout supplements, whey protein, omega fats and high protein gainers. During the promotion, you can save money on purchasing food produced in Russia, the USA and Hungary. This is fifth place in the ranking of the TOP 5 best stores for athletes.
NutraFit
The online store offers a huge range of high-quality nutritional supplements: protein, gainers, glutamines, creatine and carbohydrate blockers. They make it easier for customers to choose sports nutrition in Moscow every day. The NutraFit team carefully evaluates the quality of each brand and manufacturer to decide whether to sell a specific product.
In the store you will find a wide selection of products designed to help your body overcome fatigue during exercise, gain muscle mass and regain strength. Popular supplement brands include Now, Optimum Nutrition, Be First, Maxler USA, and BSN. For example, a large package of Syntrax Matrix powder with chocolate flavor can be purchased inexpensively for 2,890 rubles.
NutraFit offers delivery to any region of Russia to Boxberry and SDEK distribution points, as well as by mail. After registration, the buyer automatically receives a 1% discount and an additional 3% after completing 5 orders. In the ranking of the 5 best online stores, NutraFit took 3rd place in 2022.
Top 2. Be First First Whey Instant
Rating (2021): 4.77
74 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik
Minimum flavoring additives One of the few proteins in which the manufacturer does not follow the lead of consumers with a sweet tooth. There is nothing extra in it, so the real protein content is 76%.
- Characteristics
Price: 1470 rub./900 g
- Country Russia
- Protein type: whey protein
- Weight of 1 serving: 35 g
- Energy value 1 serving: 149 kcal
- BJU content: 26.9/3.43/3.1 g
The Russian-made cocktail is the leader in the amount of protein among protein concentrates. There is 9.27 g of it in one serving. At the same time, the quality corresponds to the cost - one drink costs just under 60 rubles. Athletes note the optimal consistency without lumps and foam. This cocktail is easy to drink and is digested in 1.5–2 hours, which is significantly faster than poorly soluble analogs. Opinions differ regarding taste. It is not pronounced, which is not liked by sweet lovers who compare it to kefir. However, this does not affect the popularity of the powder, so it is better to order the drink online. In regular sports food stores, the most popular flavors (“banana” and “pistachio ice cream”, “vanilla”) are often not in stock or are quickly sold out.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Optimal consistency
- High protein content
- Lots of different flavors
- No cloying
- Well absorbed
- Rarely available in offline stores
- Unexpressed taste
Benefits and harms
Even the best whey protein can cause harm to the body if the dosage is not followed. For beginners, choosing sports nutrition is quite difficult. To choose a protein for muscle growth, you need to find out the beneficial and harmful properties of the protein.
Useful:
- saturates the body with amino acids;
- relieves soreness;
- can replace meals;
- helps build muscle faster;
- normalizes insulin;
- quickly replenishes energy after training;
- contains the necessary proteins in high concentration;
- safe when the dosage is followed.
Harmful properties:
- may cause digestive problems in people with lactose allergies;
- a large dosage disrupts the functioning of the liver and kidneys;
- high price;
- All proteins contain flavorings and sweeteners, since protein itself does not taste good.
How to choose
Before purchasing, you should consult with specialists (nutritionist, therapist, sports trainer).
Main rules of purchase:
- Choose the type (whey, casein) - depends on the goal.
- Read customer reviews (online stores).
- Study the composition (presence of additional components).
- Pay attention to the weight and number of servings (choose a sample of 30-60 g).
- Release form (powder, tablets).
- Choose a flavor (neutral, fruity, chocolate).
- Presence of dyes, flavors, thickeners.
- Storage conditions.
- Manufacturer's quality certificate.
People with lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and allergic reactions should carefully study the ingredients, reviews on different sites, and consult with specialists.
Top 8 best Russian protein brands
The rating was compiled taking into account the opinions of professional athletes and comments from people who regularly engage in sports at the amateur level. Additionally, we took into account the composition (type and percentage of protein, the presence of dyes, flavors, etc.), and the cost of the product.
First Whey Instant
Rating: 4.9
This protein supplement contains 76% whey protein. The list of additional components consists of a minimum proportion of sweeteners and flavoring agents, lecithin. The latter accelerates the dissolution of protein. The manufacturer offers consumers options with natural, fruit, and chocolate flavors. The average amount of protein per serving is 26.5 g. The nutritional value per serving reaches 149 kcal.
The protein of this brand is highly soluble and practically does not foam. Protein is easily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. The product is suitable for women and men. Sports drink can be added to ice cream and baked goods. Whey protein has a high absorption rate and an optimal amino acid profile. We recommend this protein supplement when you need a quick increase in amino acids in your blood.
This brand of protein initiates the formation of free AMCs in the muscles. This speeds up the process of muscle tissue recovery after physical activity. The supplement stimulates muscle growth. During low-carb diets, protein helps reduce fat. This brand of protein helps increase endurance and strength.
Advantages
- absorbed in 20...40 minutes;
- the presence of a complete amino acid profile (BCAA, glutamine, etc.);
- no dyes;
- compliance with ISO and HACCP standards.
Flaws
- Not available in all stores.
Geneticlab Nutrition Whey Pro
Rating: 4.8
The powder mixture is made from whey concentrate. The latter is absorbed by the body within 20...40 minutes. Therefore, the supplement can be used when it is necessary to quickly replenish the level of amino acids in the blood (for example, after strength training). The product has a complete amino acid profile. One 30g serving of the powder contains about 22 grams of protein. Thus, the mixture contains 73% pure protein. This figure significantly exceeds the actual percentage of protein in many foreign products.
The supplement has a high content of glutamine and BCAA. When taking this mixture, athletes initiate the process of rapid muscle building. Protein stimulates the growth of strength parameters. Therefore, the protein of this brand is suitable for men and women involved in fitness, bodybuilding, powerlifting and weightlifting, as well as martial arts and team sports. The product complies with the regulations of current standards, therefore, if used correctly and without contraindications, it does not harm health.
The powder supplement should be taken 1…3 times a day. It is enough to dissolve a portion of protein weighing 30 g (2 scoops) in a glass of milk or water (250...300 ml), then mix thoroughly using a shaker or blender. The finished solution may have sediment. Therefore, the protein shake must be shaken before drinking. The powder should be stored in a place away from direct sunlight. The storage temperature should not exceed 20°C, the permissible humidity level is 75%.
Advantages
- long shelf life (up to 2 years);
- the presence of different taste variations;
- sold in packages of various weights;
- pleasant taste.
Flaws
- foam may form.
BinaSport Supreme Whey Protein
Rating: 4.8
The product is made on the basis of whey isolate. This promotes rapid absorption of this supplement by the body (up to 40 minutes). Additionally, the powder contains natural flavoring additives. The latter are produced by the best enterprises in Europe, and therefore are of good quality. When obtaining whey isolate, membrane filtration is used. This technology makes it possible to produce protein directly from milk. This contributes to less denaturation of the synthesized protein.
The mixture includes glutamine, branched amino acids (about 16 and 23 g per 100 grams of powder, respectively). This promotes rapid weight loss, muscle building, and an effective increase in the strength indicators of athletes. The protein is characterized by a reduced content of carbohydrates and fats (up to 10 and 1 g per 100 grams of product, respectively). This indicates the high quality of the mixture. The proportion of protein in a 33 g serving is 29 grams. Thus, the powder is distinguished by almost 88 percent pure protein content. The nutritional value of a serving is 117 kcal.
The protein shake should be prepared with milk or water. A portion of protein should be diluted in 250...300 ml of liquid. You should take the cocktail half an hour before the start of physical activity or immediately after finishing your workout. The recommended duration of taking the supplement is 4 weeks. The repeated cycle of using the mixture should be discussed with specialists.
Advantages
- availability of different packaging options;
- presence of different tastes;
- no foaming effect when mixing;
- compliance with current standards.
Flaws
- Some flavors are overly sweet.
CyberMass Casein
Rating: 4.7
We recommend taking casein protein to athletes who are on diets or cutting their bodies. The mixture includes a complex type of protein. The component is obtained by ultrafiltration of dairy products. Due to the absence of high temperatures during processing, this production method helps preserve nutrients. This supplement is absorbed within 6...8 hours. Therefore, we recommend this brand of protein to athletes who do not adhere to a strict meal schedule (skipping lunches, dinners).
The mixture gradually nourishes the muscles with protein, preventing their destruction due to short-term fasting. Among other beneficial properties, one can note the activation of the process of breakdown of fatty layers and increased endurance. The powder is suitable for professional athletes (bodybuilders, weightlifters, powerlifters, martial artists, etc.) and fitness enthusiasts. The composition of the mixture includes casein, flavors (identical to natural), fructose, lecithin, sucralose (sweetener), xanthan gum (stabilizer).
The cocktail is prepared using non-carbonated liquid with the addition of 30 g of powder. The solution should be mixed thoroughly (for example, using a shaker). You are allowed to take no more than 2 cocktails per day (morning and evening). The product should be stored in a cool, dry place away from ultraviolet radiation.
Advantages
- suitable for men and women;
- sold in packages of different weights;
- has a pleasant taste;
- complies with the current regulations.
Flaws
- Persons under 18 years of age should consult a specialist before use.
R-Line Whey
Rating: 4.7
The product is made on the basis of whey protein. The latter is obtained by using ultrafiltration technology. Sports nutrition has an optimal ratio of protein and carbohydrates (5:1). This contributes to the rapid gain of muscle mass, increased endurance, and rapid recovery after significant physical exertion. Protein is absorbed within 40 minutes. Therefore, the product can be taken when necessary to quickly fill the blood with amino acids (for example, half an hour before training or immediately after).
Sports nutrition is rich in BCAA (branched chain amino acids). The product is distinguished by the presence of a two-component carbohydrate matrix. The latter includes a couple of carbohydrates that have different glycemic properties, as well as cornstarch and fructose. The components differ in different rates of breakdown, which makes it possible to nourish the body during training. A serving of protein is 45 g. The share of protein here reaches 30 grams. Thus, the mixture contains about 67% protein. The nutritional value of a serving is 160 kcal.
The pleasant taste of the protein is ensured by the presence of freeze-dried pieces of fruit, fruit juice concentrate, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sweetener. Xanthan gum is used as a stabilizer. The composition of the mixture also includes a vitamin premix. Sportsnut is suitable for use by women and men over 18 years of age. Minor athletes should consult with specialists before taking it.
Advantages
- compliance with current standards;
- suitable for athletes and amateurs;
- prolongs the feeling of fullness;
- in the absence of contraindications, it is harmless to health.
Flaws
- some flavors are too concentrated.
Bombbar Whey Protein
Rating: 4.7
Protein is distinguished by the absence of excess carbohydrates and sugar. The product is produced based on whey protein. The latter is obtained from natural whey, which remains after the production of cheeses. Production is carried out at low temperatures. Therefore, the protein retains its natural structure, due to which it has a high biological value. The mixture helps increase endurance, strength, and initiates active growth of muscle tissue. Therefore, the protein is suitable for martial artists, bodybuilders, weightlifters and track and field athletes.
The amino acid composition of the protein is similar to human protein. Therefore, sports nutrition has a high absorption rate (up to 40 minutes). We recommend taking the supplement 30 minutes before the start of physical activity, or immediately after finishing the workout.
The serving size for making a cocktail is 30 g. This amount of product should be mixed with a glass (250...300 ml) of milk or water. It is important to mix the solution thoroughly.
Advantages
- pleasant taste;
- suitable for women and men;
- consists of natural ingredients;
- complies with all current standards.
Flaws
- A shaker is needed for mixing.
Pure Protein Multi Protein
Rating: 4.6
The mixture is suitable for amateur and professional athletes. Taking protein helps improve strength, endurance, and rapid gain of muscle mass. The product helps to recover more effectively after significant strength loads. Sports nutrition is made on the basis of whey protein (60%). Also present are egg (20%) and casein proteins (20%). Thanks to this composition, the mixture quickly saturates the blood with amino acids and nourishes the muscles during training.
Sports nutrition should be consumed by mixing with low-fat milk or water. For a glass of liquid (200...300 ml) one and a half to two scoops of the product are required. It is important to move the prepared solution well. You can add honey, banana, peanut butter. This will give the smoothie more nutritional value.
You need to take protein 1…3 times a day. When there is no training, the supplement should be used between main meals. On training days, protein should be taken 40...60 minutes after the end of physical activity.
Advantages
- dissolves quickly;
- practically does not foam;
- inexpensive;
- does not cause side effects.
Flaws
- overly sweet.
CMTech Whey Protein
Rating: 4.5
The protein is produced on the basis of ultrafiltered whey protein concentrate. The manufacturing process takes place without the use of high temperature treatment. Therefore, the protein does not lose its natural structure. This promotes a high rate of protein absorption. The mixture is rich in BCAA and glutamine. The rapid breakdown of the supplement makes this sports nutrition an excellent option for taking before starting physical activity.
One serving (30 g) contains about 20 grams of pure protein. This indicator may vary for different flavors of sports nutrition. The supplement contains natural ingredients. Taking protein helps to quickly build strength, endurance, and muscle mass. Protein is suitable for the female and male parts of the sports community.
Sports nutrition should be used by mixing 1 serving with a glass of water or milk. The use of other non-carbonated drinks is allowed. Athletes under 18 years of age should consult with specialists before taking it.
Advantages
- breaks down within 40 minutes;
- good taste;
- mixes easily with liquid;
- Suitable for amateur and professional athletes.
Flaws
- foam occurs when mixed with milk.
What are there
Protein products help men gain muscle mass and increase their ability to work. Helps women lose excess weight. People with gluten intolerance, vegetarians, and vegans should diversify their diet.
There are four types, which differ in the type of raw materials used in production:
- Whey - produced from cottage cheese, cheese by curdling.
- Casein - obtained from milk.
- Egg - made from eggs, contains the entire set of amino acids.
- Vegetable (vegetarian) – from plants (rice, peas, sunflower, soybeans, hemp, oats).
Whey is divided into three types: concentrate, isolate, hydrolysate. The concentrate is cheaper. Isolate and hydrolyzate contain more collagen, few lipids, and no lactose.
Based on the rate of absorption by the body, there are fast (whey) and slow (7-8 hours) (casein).
The egg type is the most expensive due to costly production. Does not cause allergic reactions, has many vitamins, valuable amino acids (leucine), but a small range.
Depending on the number of ingredients, there are single- and multi-component formulations. Multicomponent ones contain several types of proteins (3, 4, 7 components), animal and plant origin.
Top 3. Geneticlab Nutrition Whey Pro
Rating (2021): 4.65
126 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik
Best value for money The cocktail has an optimal ratio of BJU, where proteins are 22 g per serving. At the same time, the price of powder remains at the lower end of the middle segment in Russia.
- Characteristics
Price: 1390 rub./1000 g
- Country Russia
- Protein type: whey protein
- Weight of 1 serving: 33 g
- Energy value 1 serving: 121 kcal
- BJU content: 22/1.6/0.65 g
Protein concentrate is the best option for athletes gaining lean mass. It is ideal even during the drying period. There are practically no fats and carbohydrates in it, there is no sugar in the composition at all, and there are no extraneous additives that interfere with the full digestibility of protein. This composition is to the taste of many professional athletes, as they write about in reviews. Only a brief feeling of satiety is noted. Although you shouldn’t expect it from whey proteins. Among the disadvantages is the thick, abundant foam after preparing a cocktail in a shaker. It is quite dense and takes a long time to settle, so it is recommended to use containers with a wide neck.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Composition confirmed by Roskontrol
- Minimum fats and carbohydrates
- Does not contain sugar
- Suitable for drying
- Doesn't give you a feeling of satiety
- Foams a lot
- Chemical taste
See also:
- 10 Best Whey Isolates
Top 7. CMTech Whey Protein
Rating (2021): 4.35
17 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, IRecommend
Independent laboratory control of composition The founders of CMTech, after analyzing sports supplements, realized that they were not satisfied with the quality of Russian-made proteins, and launched their own production. Each batch of their products is tested in an independent laboratory.
- Characteristics
Price: 1265 rub.
- Country Russia
- Protein type: whey protein
- Weight of 1 serving: 30 g
- Energy value 1 serving: 126 kcal
- BJU content: 20.6/2.8/2.9 g
As for a whey concentrate, the product has a high percentage of pure protein – 80%. This is achieved by ultrafiltration and is the best option for creating relief. The cocktail is suitable for beginner weightlifters: it is easy to prepare, enriched with amino acids and quickly absorbed. The highlight of the brand is neutral drinks. These can be stirred in milk, kefir, water, maintaining the unobtrusive taste. The powder does not stick together over time thanks to the anti-caking agent in the composition. However, storage packaging is not the best for bulk product. The soft container is closed with a zip-lock, into which small particles become clogged, and it quickly becomes unusable, allowing air inside.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Controlled composition
- Doesn't cake
- High % protein
- Neutral taste
- Inconvenient packaging
- Doesn't mix well