Benefits Of Protein Shakes

There are great myths that surround the supplementation of protein shakes. This article discusses the benefits of protein supplementation, who should be using protein shakes and what to consider before consuming them. 

Protein Shakes for your Workout

Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in the daily function of the body. Amongst other things, it builds and repairs skin, blood, bones, muscles and cartilage. Without adequate protein in the diet, muscles won’t repair as quickly or effectively and this may contribute to overtraining. After a hard workout, it’s important to aid the body in its repair and recovery as it’s at this time that protein shakes are most beneficial.

The first 30-60 minutes after working out is the optimum time to consume nutrients to aid recovery. Solid food takes time to break down, digest and send to the muscles, making protein shakes a better alternative. Protein shakes are digested quickly and, on average, take about 30 minutes to reach the muscles after consumption. Ready mixed or ready-to-mix products such as the Whey Protein 80 i-SHAKE™ are great for post-workout. Just add water, shake and drink.

As the body does most of its repair work at night, while you’re asleep and when growth hormones are elevated, having a protein shake about an hour before you go to bed can greatly aid recovery too.

Protein Shakes for Weight Loss

Protein shakes can help to develop lean muscle mass, but it’s also true that shakes can aid fat loss by increasing satiety, delivering essential nutrients and improving metabolic activity. Replacing one meal a day with a protein based shake or smoothie can assist with weight loss provided it’s not going against any advice from your doctor and is part of a nutritionally balanced diet. The Protein Life-Shake™ powder can be mixed with water or milk, supplemented with fruits if desired, for a nutritionally balanced breakfast drink or even added to porridge to increase satiety levels.

Protein Shakes for Women

Protein shakes have particular benefits for women.  As women get older, the risk of osteoporosis and joint problems increase, therefore it becomes even more important to retain muscle mass and get an adequate amount of protein in the diet. If your diet already contains a good level of protein, you won’t need shakes to retain or gain muscle. However, if you don’t eat many protein-rich foods, drinking an occasional shake can help you get enough of the nutrient.

Considerations

Protein shakes should be viewed as a supplement. This means that if you get enough protein by eating whole foods, supplementing with protein shakes will not be a priority. Excessive consumption of protein can increase the risk of heart and kidney problems, lead to bowel problems and nutrient deficiencies. Some protein shakes can be high in sugar or artificial ingredients so do check the ingredients lists and compare brands to ensure you’re making the best choice for you.