We’re all aware of how beneficial protein shakes are for us, but we’re generally confused about when to drink them, so as to make maximum use of them. This article will explicitly explain when and why you should consume protein shakes in the day.
Proteins form a very vital part of our daily nutritional requirements. They help to build the muscle tissue in our body, recover from injuries, favorably maintain our body, etc. While we may try our level best to include all the required nutrients in our daily diet, we may sometimes fall short on them. Hence, we are required to turn to supplements that ensure that the body gets its fill of the nutrients required.
Protein shakes, homemade or store bought, are one of the best sources of proteins that one can take to get the necessary supply of proteins. While we’re probably aware of that already, we often wonder about what is the best time to have it. This NutriNeat article aims at eradicating that confusion from our minds.
Prior to Exercise
Any kind of physical exercise requires a lot of energy. If you’ve been drinking protein shakes to lose weight, then we’re taking for granted that you’re already on a low carb (read low calorie) diet. So, it only makes sense to consume a good, healthy and energy filled protein shake about an hour or two before you indulge in your workout session. This way, your body will use the protein to build strong muscles, which you will require for your workout.
Post Exercise
One of the most important functions of proteins is to help the body maintain its wear and tear and help in quick regeneration of body tissue. After a workout, your body is in a state of physical shock. The muscles have been worn out and they need be heal. So, the intake of a good, healthy protein shake immediately after a workout will speed up the process of helping your muscles to mend themselves and also build up strong muscles.
As Soon as you Wake Up
When you are asleep, your entire body is at rest. There is no entry or exit of energy, to and from your body. As a result, your body has been deprived of its necessary supply of protein for 8 hours and probably even more. So, drinking a wholesome protein shake, first thing in the morning, by itself, or together with a light breakfast, is a habit that is recommended by many experts. By doing so, you are giving your body ample supply of energy to last until your next meal. Plus, you are less likely to feel hunger pangs or sudden food cravings after drinking a protein shake. That takes care of your weight loss too!
Just Before you Retire for the Day
Drinking a protein shake before going to bed is recommended for those who are drinking it to gain energy, or lose weight, and not for those who want to build muscles. When you sleep, a natural process of systematized protein breakdown is triggered off. In this process, your body builds muscle tissue from the protein that you have consumed. When you drink a generous amount of protein just before retiring for the day, it is only natural for the process to be more effective, since the body has not got a chance to break down the protein in any other activity.
Drink your protein shake at any time, a combination of the above-mentioned times, or all the times (according to your diet, body structure and dietitian’s advice) for maximum benefit. When choosing a protein shake, you must exercise extreme caution. Research thoroughly and use one that suits your reasons and requirements. There is a lot of variety when it comes to protein shakes. You don’t want to end up with a shake that makes you put on weight instead of losing it, or vice versa. The right protein shake, along with a sound knowledge of when to drink it coupled with a well-balanced diet and fitness regime is what will keep you able-bodied and fit!
