Why suppliment Protein

I dont know the answer to this but I ask this question all the time (mostly to myself or other overweight friends that dont know the answer).....
If you are meeting the recommended protein (or even going over that) each day - do you really need more?
And why purchase a "protein powder" when there are tons of foods that have protein?
And, in my opinion, why drink something when you can eat it?
I know that this isnt the "exact" message of your post -- but these questions are in my mind too.

I would get tired of tuna if I tried eating it more than once a day. Protein powder tastes good, It is a way for me to get something sweet that is also good for me, It is fast, and fast absorbing, there are different types of proteins, and whey is a good protein to fuel your muscles after a workout. Maybe I'm buying the wrong Tuna, but a can of tuna has 360 mg of sodium. Most days I eat tuna I am over on my sodium. I've also heard about mercury in fish. Too much can be dangerous.

I realize I am a minority here, but remember some of us are vegetarians. For various reasons, I choose not to eat meat, so I can't get protein from chicken and fish. Whey protein shakes help me get my protein up to moderate levels several times a week.

I was checking out some protein suppliments today along with a visit to the supermarket. I've a few questions for those who take protein suppliments. One Whey powder i looked at provided per serving: 120 Kcals, Fat 2g, Carbs 3g, Protein 23g. Another one Muscle milk light per serving: 195 Kcal, Fat 6g, Carbs 11g, Protein 25g. But a serving of Tuna (in brine) per serving: Kcal 105, Fat 0.5g, Carbs 0g, Protein 25g. Does the Tuna not look a better option? My questions then: why not just eat tuna? Is the type of protein provided different in some way? Is it that it's an easier option to take a drink rather than eat? It certainly seem a cheaper option as some of the protein mixes are quite expensive. Is it right to say that there is a two hour window to take on protein after a muscle workout so it doesn't seem vital that a suppliment is taken straight away however I see guys 'mixing and shaking' their drinks before getting a shower. There seems to be a multitude of different types of proteins in tubs and it really is a science but from what I've read, generally, the more processed a food is the more unrefined it gets. To me, tuna seems to be pretty basic. Your thoughts.

It really comes down to the digestibility and amino acid content of the protein. The digestibility of the proteins in meat and dairy products tend to be higher than those in plant sources like beans or vegetables. The higher digestibility just means the protein in that food can be used more efficiently for bodily functions. As for amino acid content, there are essential amino acids that one must consume on a daily basis to maintain/enhance various functions. Certain proteins have a higher content of these essential amino acids, and those that have all of the Essential AA's are called "complete proteins". Tuna is an excellent choice for a complete protein, and actually has the highest amino acid content of all lean meats.

Protein supplements are very cheap per serving, and tend to have a great amino acid content. Whey protein is easily digested and promotes protein synthesis and muscular hypertrophy, very good for maintaining muscle mass when in a caloric deficit. In terms of fullness, you're probably better off with whole food, but nothing will meet your protein needs as inexpensively as a good protein powder. Muscle Milk would probably be considered a meal replacement rather than a pure protein supplement. If you are having problems digesting a powdered whey protein, it is probably a protein blend that includes other allergens like casein. Anyone who has stomach issues with protein powders can try a 100% Whey Protein Isolate and it should resolve the issue.

You can get 5lbs of whey for $30. That's usually something like 80 servings, so less than 40 cents per serving. I doubt you'll be able to find tuna for that price.

The post-workout window is actually very important and many studies have shown the importance of a carbohydrate/protein supplement to induce an anabolic environment after the catabolic stress of exercise. Being that whey protein is digested faster than other proteins, it is a staple for many people in the peri-workout window. Studies also show that 15 minutes post-workout is more beneficial than 1 hour, 2 hours, or longer.