Drinking Protein Shake Supplements

Does it make a difference?

As interest in health and nutrition grows, more and 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.

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.

According to independent research, protein shakes are a safe way to ensure enough protein, when used as part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. 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 those trying to lose weight, a healthy protein shake can provide the necessary nutrients and allow you to feel full longer, as protein generally digests slower than most "junk food."

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. 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 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.

Protein supplements in the form of shakes can be a great way to get your daily allowances of protein and other nutrients. As always, with Doctor's evaluation, you should consistently exercise and eat right for better overall health.