Protein is one of the macronutrients responsible for building muscle mass. There are many ways to consume protein from animal products to plant-based products, but this article is going to discuss the protein shake.

What Are They?

Protein shakes are a mix of a liquid, usually either water milk (depending on if you need extra calories or not) and mixable protein powder.

The use of protein shakes is to boost the daily consumption of protein. It is most commonly used for those trying to build muscle; however, it can also be used to lose extra body weight. An example of this is when a professional bodybuilder or wrestler is trying to cut weight. The first thing they cut from their diet is carbs because by cutting carbs, the diet forces the body to burn fat for energy rather than burning the sugars or glucose consumed from carbs.

There are many types of protein shakes on the market. Protein shakes come available premade, or they come in the powder, ready to be mixed.

What Are The Different Types?

Protein shakes can be found that are vegan friendly to regular store-bought protein powder from Walmart. There’s a vast array of different proteins that can be consumed.

• Whey Protein: It is quickly absorbed, and contains all of the essential amino acids. It is dairy-based. For best results, consume whey protein 15 minutes after working out.
• Casein Protein: Casein protein is slowly absorbed, and contains all the essential amino acids. It is dairy-based. For best results, consume right before bed.
• Soy Protein: Plant-based, and contains all the essential amino acids. It provides many health benefits for women. For best results, use after a workout or in the morning.
• Hemp Protein: Plant-based and high in Omega-3 fat.
• Rice Protein: Plant-based, but low in essential amino acids.

What Are The Benefits?

Protein shakes are great for building muscle mass.

The use of protein adds more protein macros to your daily diet. If you are trying to put on weight, the protein shakes can allow you to consume more calories to pair with eating. Protein sparks muscle growth.

Protein shakes are great for losing weight and preventing it too.

Extra protein in your diet will take over the typical carb overload. Protein shakes will decrease appetite and can be used for meal replacements with intermediate fasting. Protein shakes are also shown to boost metabolism.

What Protein is Best?

The protein shake you choose should correspond to your goals. If you are looking to put on weight and muscle, a mass gainer protein shake is excellent. However, an important thing to keep in mind is that protein shakes should not replace meals. Eating and consuming healthy meals is the best way to get in shape and stay in shape. Protein shakes are used in support.

On the other hand, if you are trying to lose weight, protein shakes are great. Mass gainer would be the right choice, but whey or soy protein would benefit you.

Here are some excellent links to learn more.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/protein-shakes-weight-loss#section2

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263371