As interest in health and nutrition continues to grow, still more people are trying protein shakes as a way to lose weight or enhance their sports performance. What do protein shakes consist of, and what are their true benefits? Here’s some information to guide you.
What are protein shakes?
Protein is one of the body’s main building blocks for muscle, bone, skin, and other tissues. Used often by athletes, protein shakes come in many combinations of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. They can range from 100% protein to mostly carbohydrates with a little added protein and fat. Protein shakes come in a variety of flavors in powder form or in ready-to-drink packages, such as cans or foil packs.
What are the benefits of protein shakes?
Safe for people who are healthy and fit, protein shakes are used mainly by athletes who need nourishment right after their workouts, says Jose Antonio, chief executive officer and co-founder of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN). ‘Most people can’t make a meal immediately post-workout’, he says. ‘So these ready-to-drink shakes are really your best alternative’.
According to the ISSN, protein shakes are a safe way to ensure enough protein, when used as part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. This counters the view that protein shakes can be harmful to kidneys or bones.
- Although research hasn’t proven their role in sports performance and muscle strength, protein shakes may offer certain benefits.
- An endurance athlete may find it easier to train with the help of protein shakes, says Antonio. That’s because they help the body recover from intense exercise. Protein shakes do this mainly by restoring muscle glycogen, a fuel source for exercise, which gets used up during workouts.
- For the strength athlete, protein shakes can also help repair damage to muscles that can occur with serious bodybuilding.
- The general fitness enthusiast who works out hard but doesn’t want to be a marathon runner or bodybuilder may also benefit, says Antonio. This is the kind of person who might run twice a week and lift weights twice a week.
Some research shows other benefits as well. For example, a study of 130 U.S. Marines looked at intense exercisers who supplemented their diet with 10 g of protein, 8 g of carbohydrates, and 3 g of fat. They had fewer infections, less heat exhaustion, and less muscle soreness. Some protein shakes may help with weight management, as well. But more research is needed to confirm this.
How much protein do you need?
Almost all people can get the protein they need from whole foods and drinks in their diet. The recommended daily intake of protein for healthy adults is 0.75 g of protein per kilogram of body weight, or about 45 to 56 g of protein a day.
Tags: Protein Shakes

Leave A Reply (58 comments So Far)
Ahmiltoorly
89 days ago
What’s the best type of protein shake, how is it more beneficial than gnc brand protein shakes, and just how many occasions each day are you currently suppose to drink it if you do not exercise
Caliat
89 days ago
Could it be reasonable to combine my protein shakes each morning, insert them in a water bottle and drink them within the mid-day? Can they be good? Should i have to combineOrtremble them again?
Thanks!
Enstives
88 days ago
I’ve buddies whose diet consists almost entirely of protein shakes, and they are aficionado as hell. One friend includes a protein shake for breakfast time, plus some others will simply have them as snacks – even when they haven’t exercised on that day whatsoever! Are these healthy/advantageous practices? Or what is the downside too?
Thanks!
Whone1972
88 days ago
I’m a thirty year old female and that i have presently began weight lifting. I understand I’m designed to drink protein shakes following a good workout, but which? I see Whey protein Protein powder and that i also have found one which has a protein blend. I’ve no clue which will give me better results or if they’re either good. Help!!!
Lattlyined
88 days ago
I learn about people consuming protein shakes as replacement for snacks, so 1 maybe 2 each day. Plus they slim down(given they exercise).
Do you know the benefits and drawbacks?
Doem1984
88 days ago
Are protein shakes healthy for you? Would you consume a powerbar and drink a protein shake once you worked out?
Feameter1935
88 days ago
I have been training within the last 23 days. Going on a diet & working out. I’m consuming protein shakes (suggested by my trainer) daily. Besides improving my metabolic process, just what does a protein shake do in order to ones body?
Theaunnowly
88 days ago
How do you make protein shakes which will keep me filled longer?
Tinclan
88 days ago
What are the unwanted effects for them? How can i have them in Canada and just how expensive is the approximate cost per pound. I’m presently exercising inside a gym 1 hr./day and i am searching forward to numerous muscle gain and that i thought protein shakes would also help. Exactly what do you say?
Quital
88 days ago
Each of my siblings have to put on weight. What exactly are some high calorie protein shakes will be able to buy at stores or make in your own home? Any suggestions?
One brother is 16 and also the other is 6.
Toodifer
88 days ago
In my experience this is not sensible. I wish to slim down by consuming Protein shakes, it cause people who wish to get ripped achieve this? I’d rather not get large like bodybuilders. What is the trick to creating the Protein Shakes use the direction you would like them to?
My physician is crazy and does not know anything, but I’ll request anyways.
Watelt
88 days ago
I’ve just became a member of a gym and also have been going per month. I’ve been taking Protein Shakes and wondered how lengthy I ought to wait before getting meals because the body are only able to absorb 30 grams in a single sitting.
Also, while at the office I’ve nut bars, flapjacks, pork sandwiches and fruit. Anybody have better lunchtime meal ideas?
Deadied
88 days ago
I’m 15 and i’m skinny enough to determine my backbone stand out after i bend lower. The physician Saids I’ve got a fast metabolic process. I’ve been exercising however i aren’t seeing any improvements. I’ve been recommended to consider protein shakes. What exactly are good safe protein shakes that will help my muscle mass building?
Herse1943
88 days ago
Array
Yonge1988
88 days ago
Each time my hubby attempts to diet he will get on high protein diets and it is always consuming the protein shakes. The issue with this particular is the fact that protein powder is extremely costly and we’re on a tight budget. Can’t he just slim down when you eat less (and much more healthy) and working out more? What’s all of the hype with 3 protein shakes each day together with 3 foods? Plus, the protein appears to create him mean. Is that this possible?
Colin1994
88 days ago
Could it be reasonable to combine my protein shakes each morning, insert them in a water bottle and drink them within the mid-day? Can they be good? Should i have to combineOrtremble them again?
Thanks!
The main reason I wish to drink it within the mid-day happens because I strength train and run everyday around 2:30 within the mid-day.
And can in need of assistance to remix my shake basically allow it to wallow in it all day long?
Duress1963
88 days ago
I wanna start exercising and obtain in a little of shape, and that i know protein shakes be very convenient however i haven’t got any concept of which of those must i buy?? any suggestions?
Doesire
88 days ago
I’ve began a brand new exercise routine (exercise Monday evening, Wednesday, Friday and ‘life was imple’). Basically drink protein shakes throughout the evening, just like a mid-morning and/or mid-mid-day snack, will this cause me to achieve weight or could it be used as fuel since i have do visit the gym? I had been instructed with a trainer to do this protein wealthy diet to lose weight and muscle mass buildingOrfirming. Just thought I’d request if other people has attempted this out.
Themisside
88 days ago
Hello everybody,
I’m 17yr old boy. My birthday not to date away.. I weight 69Kg’s.
I’m very instresting in bodybuilding however i understand the programs
And all sorts of. The one thing i really want you individuals to request ” Steps to make protein shakes / which of them to purchase best ? How you can get it ready ” So when must i utilize it. The number of grams i’m able to utilize it ?? So how exactly does them grams count?? Must i utilize it even when i dont exercise??? What will be the best diet???
Thanks for your opinions.
Theke1984
88 days ago
im 14 and i wish to take protein shakes. does it have impact on me?
i should also strength train. must i lift heavy or lightweight. basically lift light or household names, does it affect my growing?
Morris
88 days ago
My physician has me consuming only water and protein shakes (Ultramet 42 protien) before my bypass surgery. They’re making me so sick which i needed to stop consuming them. I seem like i wish to provide all day long and that i just cannot sleep since i’ve been taking them. I’m more depressed and fewer energy.
I ended consuming them and merely awaiting my body system to return to normal.
What’s the real reason for consuming these shakes? Must i drink them for that surgery to become done?
Rethe1960
88 days ago
Exactly what do protein shakes do for you when you have been weight training?
Boderstury1966
88 days ago
I am a pretty small dude. To not small though. I am pretty well developed up but I wish to get a little bigger in muscle smart however i don’t wanna take any protein shakes which types of stuff. Exactly what is a great way which i could build muscle? What type of food would I must start eating?
Worty1951
88 days ago
Could it be reasonable to combine my protein shakes each morning, insert them in a water bottle and drink them within the mid-day? Can they be good? Should i have to combineOrtremble them? The main reason I wish to drink it within the mid-day happens because I strength train and run everyday around 2:30 within the mid-day. And can in need of assistance to remix my shake basically allow it to wallow in it all day long?
Thanks!
Exactionan75
88 days ago
A calorie deficit helps an individual slim down, however could it be suggested also to build muscle mass? When lifting, I drink two protein shakes each day plus foods which could total more than 2000 calories every day. If my BMR is 1550 cal each day, wouldn’t I really gain body body fat than lose it, despite exercise? Performs this mean I must simply exercise longer to produce a calorie deficit?
Begfring
88 days ago
I needed to begin exercising and be much healthier overall.
In the beginning I believed of just exercising and eating well. Would adding protein shakes be helpful?
I am a girl, so I am not attempting to build muscle, I am attempting to become more lean/slimmer.
What are the disadvantages to presenting protein shakes?
I am not striving for any major weight reduction. I am not overweight, im only searching to get rid of 5-10lbs and become more well developed.
Conch1993
88 days ago
Hello
I have been exercising for quite a while now after each workout I’ve got a protein shake. But I have been doing research in muscle milk because I wish to see more muscle gain, I have seen a little of progress using the protein but I wish to build muscle faster. So which should be to possess following a workout? Muscle Milk or Protein shakes?
Themisside
87 days ago
Cheap protein shakes?
Walut1973
86 days ago
I wish to begin taking protein shakes for endurance. I am uninterested in muscle building a lot like me in accumulating my endurance. I actually do wish to increase my muscle tissue just a little, but less because I’m not a bodybuilder, merely a black belt that’s searching to improve my endurance. I learned about whey protein protein, but is not that to improve muscle tissue? What’s the best protein shake for growing endurance?
Grecenive1930
86 days ago
I’m searching for protein shakes that could even replace meals, will be able to make myself! Thanks everybody.
Bagall
85 days ago
I hear consuming protein shakes following a workout will repair and make muscle, and can it in anyway alter the way my body system burns body fat?
My thought is the fact that following a workout your body will burn body fat, but will not basically drink a protein shake. Shall we be held wrong or right?
Additionally, can you recommend i drink protein shakes? (I am a 16 years old male, 6 ft tall and 179 pounds) I must both get ripped on my small arms, but burn some body fat throughout my core.
Frount
85 days ago
Like I’m not going individuals monster protein shakes which makes a bodybuilder like MetRX or Cell-Tech. Only a protein shake that provides an extra intake in protein to consider after lifting for football.
I have to develop this season if I wish to begin college.
Thomenjobts
83 days ago
What goes on for protein shakes try not to exercise, and they are being used since your weight loss program is naturally lower in protein? Like as being a vegetarian. Do you know the advantages of protein shakes?
Thicia
83 days ago
I am not searching to obtain huuuge or anything i play number 7 and am pretty large already among the finest to firm up lose body fat and obtain lean muscle mass. How do you use my protein shakes best so when to workout and just what kind of exercise?
Dognis
83 days ago
I am using Six Star Muscles, What’s the best way to to consume the Protein shakes on Non-Workout days and fitness Days? Also How must i Eat my Food, By using it or Without?
Sitimme
82 days ago
My pal thinks he is able to slim down and remain healthy by only getting protein shakes. He states theres carbohydrates,calories, and protein all within the shakes.
I dont think its advisable.
It almost appears just like a crash diet.
Exactly what do u think?
Is he going to slim down?
Could it be healthy to simply have protein shakes a couple of days to get rid of a few pounds?
Awkwast
81 days ago
Could it be okay to possess protein shakes for the daily sum of proteins everyday and eat carbohydrates through the relaxation during the day?
Herse1943
81 days ago
I’ve been eating a healthy diet plan of chicken, seafood, stir frys, preparing salads, veg and fruit etc and exercising 3-4 occasions per week doing cardio and weights. Before a workout i take whey protein protein shakes. Can someone help? Are these good for weight reduction? I’ve had mixed advice for individuals. Thanks.
Tiour1979
81 days ago
could it be good in case your attempting to burn body fat and build muscle or are you going to gain body fat too?
just how much for anyone who is exercising
The age of may be the youngest you ought to have protein shakes?
what’s better Whey protein, or soy protein powder? or other.
and then any other knowledge you might have for somebody attempting to gain some serious muscle! )
Oh and P.S I am a vegetarian so just getting some chicken is not really a choice for me personally!
Ashery1954
80 days ago
Hey all, what’s going to occur to me basically start consuming protein shakes without visiting the gym? Will it be worth by some hand weights? I perform a large amount of football and lots of walking in the event that helps?
Camod1971
80 days ago
I actually want to start protein shakes cuz personally i think it’ll produce just a little increase in my weight reduction goals. I’ve got a really REALLY slow metabolic process so something that is needed this is perfect. I must keep your cost $40 and under.
Paingst
79 days ago
I’m wondering basically must start with protein shakes and supplements throughout the start stages of my weight reduction journey, or hold back until I shed weight?..
Also, suggestions about which supplements and proteins shakes would you recommend are the most useful that i can take, United kingdom please.
I’ve considered slimming pills, are most complete rubbish or perform some really help and lead to weight reduction results? Thanks!
Grecenive1930
79 days ago
Im 17 and I wish to build my muscle while losing weight. So how exactly does protein shakes assist me to performs this?
Scou1966
78 days ago
I discovered that Im im a “fasting hypoglycemic” and apparently basically do not take proper care of myself I possibly could get diabetes. I had been told to drink protein shakes each morning however i heard they taste horrible. Can there be in whatever way I’m able to make sure they are taste better? Every other tips could be appreciated too.
Pargety1975
73 days ago
Im also likely to exercise obviously, but do protein shakes help women too or simply males?
Unclefor
73 days ago
How lengthy will it decide to try see leads to my legs, hamstring and waist if im exercising 3-4 occasions each day, maintaining a healthy diet and consuming protein shakes?
my new diet includes wholegrain meals for example nutri-grain bars or wheat grains subs, preparing salads, chicken white meat, lean meat, plus some vegetables together with protein shakes…
Also when and how is the greatest time for you to drink the protein shakes?
i meant 3-4 occasions per week! sorry
Hervizinve1937
73 days ago
I observed the powder for protein shakes do not have much protein. Approximately. 45% from the DV/serving.
So, when they aren’t that wealthy in protein, what are the differences between protein shakes and merely taking supplement pills?
Wassis
72 days ago
I am likely to begin a protein diet. 2 protein shakes. Morning with my morning workout. And something for supper. I consume a normal meal for supper, staying away from pasta and bread and consuming a lot of water. after which doing my evening workout. Carrying this out every single day, Will the protein shakes assist me to together with daily exercise and watching my calorie consumption?
Altakeen1959
69 days ago
Nobody sells protein shakes within my place and when they are doing, its costly and all sorts of I’m able to afford is really a chocolate milk. I requested this since i began excercise.
Sould1945
69 days ago
Iv always had issues with protein shakes since the consumers i live and eat only sells 1 type of protein shakes. And each time i drink it it tastes SOOO bad it literally makes me vomit. Like i must hold my breath, drink it, rinse after that it i’m able to breathe again. How are protein shakes suppose to taste like? Which brands would you recommend? Brands that are offered in Toronto thanks.
Toply1949
69 days ago
And So I exercise doing cardio 4-5 occasions per week and that i eat a great deal of meat for protein but most likely less than I ought to so I am considering beginning on protein shakes! What is your opinion? I’m 18, female, 5ft2, 49kg but attempting to slim down just a little! I will likely be consuming it following a gym workouts
Theigh
67 days ago
Its since i drink protein shakes and i wish to understand what the main difference to be natural.
Foruse
66 days ago
What protein shakes are perfect for building muscles and fast? I have to have a rise in muscle within two several weeks and that i need protein shakes, but i’m not sure which.
Loye1974
65 days ago
I have just lately began consuming pure whey protein protein shakes. Natural, no garbage added or anything, but I’m wondering whether it might cause any harm in trying to get pregnant. Enjoy it wouldn’t lower sperm fertility or anything wouldn’t it? Thanks!
Thety1939
42 days ago
What are the unwanted effects that could arise should you drink protein shakes regularly? Could it increase my likelihood of getting cancer? Does it lower my intelligence or damage my brain by any means? Are there more hidden dangers or potential risks?
Tharmis
34 days ago
I am likely to begin using protein shakes to lose weight and that i would like it to be competitive with it are able to and so i am curious in regards to what food I ought to eat for supper and dinner basically drink the shake as breakfast? And when so when I ought to consume snacks, and just what they must be. I actually do a minimum of half an hour for an hour of cardio everyday, either a mix of walking and running (outdoors ro in the club) or riding the stationary bycycle and that i do weights three days per week. I’ve lost 10kgs previously 9 several weeks and i’m battling to get rid of anymore! So essential may also be appreciated.
** My activity level only has lately been amped up.
Lauch1945
6 days ago
Okay so protein shakes are great to consume after ANY workout? even when you didnt strength train and just went or did bikram yoga?
Daudys
2 days ago
I’m 21 years of age and my weight is about 147 pounds. I wanna get large not insanely large but simply a great muscular shape . any ideas concerning the best protein shakes, food or any other stuff to obtain that . can there be any unwanted effects for protein shakes ?