You might’ve heard that protein shakes help you feel full, grow muscle mass, and might even help you lose weight. But do protein shakes really work? Are they a great-tasting choice that can make all the difference to your diet?
Read on to find out more.
Weight Loss and Muscle Gain
Studies have shown that protein shakes can lower body fat (and belly fat) while reducing daily calorie count. It can also help you to maintain a healthy metabolism and build muscle.
If you rely too much on protein shakes, however, you’ll miss out on the benefits of eating actual food. And besides, while replacing a meal with a protein shake helps you lose weight in the short turn, eventually, you’ll need to eat solid food again. So it’s better if you are eating healthy. That doesn’t mean you can’t occasionally substitute a meal with a shake.
Side Effects
Also, consider the side effects. Research has shown that you may experience gas, bloating, stomach cramps, hives, rash, and a stuffy nose if you’re allergic to cow’s milk. Be sure to read the label and choose a non-dairy protein powder if you have an allergy.
Other Considerations
There are different types of protein in protein drinks (whey, Casein, soy, etc.) that serve different functions for your body. Different protein powder ingredients might affect your ability to reach your goals. For instance, if you’re a runner, you might want drinks with more carbs, whereas if you’re bodybuilding, you’ll want to choose a drink with more protein to build muscle.
Decide What’s Right for You
Protein shakes taste great and might be the right choice if you don’t get enough protein. But you’ll need to do your research to ensure you’ll reach your goals.
