when should you drink protein shake?
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The best time to consume protein for optimal muscle growth is a controversial topic. Fitness enthusiasts often recommend taking a protein supplement 15–60 minutes after exercise. This time frame is known as the “anabolic window” and said to be the perfect time for getting the most out of nutrients like protein ( 16 ).
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Drinking a protein shake for breakfast can be a quick and convenient way to squeeze more nutrients into your diet and increase your protein intake. Protein shakes can also be an effective tool to support weight loss and enhance muscle growth.
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According to the International Society of Sports Nutrition, consuming protein any time up to two hours after your workout is ideal for building muscle mass ( 17 ). For the average person, resistance exercise and consuming sufficient protein are more important than timing protein intake ( 18 ).
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Taking 1 shake per day should be a good way to start. It is best to take it either before or instead of a meal, with 1 or 2 scoops of protein powder in the shake.
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Protein shakes can help a person to gain weight easily and efficiently. A shake is most effective at helping to build muscle if drunk shortly after a workout. However, it is important to note that premade shakes often contain extra sugar and other additives that should be avoided. Check labels carefully.
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You can plan to drink protein shakes in the morning as a breakfast meal replacement or integrate them throughout the day as snacks. Then, make a list of healthy dinner proteins that you can rotate throughout each night to give your diet variety while consuming foods packed with nutrients.
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Healthy people can safely drink protein shakes ( 24 ). That said, shakes are not designed to replace meals. It's best to use them between meals and, if you prefer, around your workouts. Many people fear that taking protein supplements in combination with a high-protein diet can harm their health.
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If you go to gym to lift weights, do cardio or both, or you regularly pound or pedal the pavement for your fitness fix, eating lots of protein will help rebuild and repair the damage done to your muscles for a stronger, leaner body. A quick and easy way to increase your intake is a protein shake made with whey powder.
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In addition to promoting weight loss and rounding out your diet, drinking a protein shake first thing in the morning may be especially beneficial for your workout routine. Protein is necessary for tissue repair and muscle growth and can help your body recover after an intense workout ( 9 ).
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What Is a Protein Shake Diet? A typical protein shake diet will replace one or two meals per day with a pre-purchased shake or one you prepare yourself using a soy-based or whey protein powder and some form of liquid. Many dieters use water because it doesn't add calories, but you can also use milk or juice.
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If you are trying to lose weight, drinking a protein shake before bed helps you burn calories even as you sleep. Drinking a protein shake not only promotes MPS, but it also pushes your metabolism into overactivity. Your body needs more energy to absorb and digest the protein you washed down before sleeping.
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Taking it can improve your health, as well as increase your total daily protein intake. This is an important factor in weight loss and muscle growth. Try taking 1–2 scoops of casein protein powder or a large glass of milk before bedtime to improve recovery and reduce protein breakdown.
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It builds muscle. You're better able to maintain them because of your choice to drink a whey protein shake before going to sleep. There are many benefits as noted to consuming whey protein at night. You'll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to greet the day with energy.
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Premier Protein shakes, for example, have 30 grams of protein, 160 calories and only 1 gram of sugar, so they are perfect for breakfast on the go. A protein shake for breakfast can build muscle, while also creating energy. This is the best time of day to have your shake: first thing in the morning.
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The Bottom Line Protein plays an important role in repairing and rebuilding your muscles after exercise, and many people use protein shakes after their workouts to aid this process. However, research suggests it doesn't matter whether you drink a protein shake before or after your workout.
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When to take a pre-workout protein shake Take a light protein shake — with a serving of protein of around 20 grams — at least 30 minutes before a workout to make sure that you're fully prepared to workout.
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General recommendations are to consume 15-25 grams of protein at meals and in the early recovery phase (anabolic window) — 45 minutes to one hour after a workout. Studies show higher intakes (more than 40 grams) are no more beneficial than the recommended 15-25 grams at one time.