What Is Protein?
Protein is a supplement that’s made naturally in the body or can be consumed in many different forms for a long list of benefits. When taking protein as a supplement, it’s important to know how to manage the timing of it. This is why we are discussing when to take protein supplements. Proper timing can make all the difference in the world.
Protein is perhaps the most popular supplement in the bodybuilding world. When bodybuilding, it’s nice to think that you can perfectly align your work schedule, exercise routine, and eating regime every day, but that is just not possible. Life can get busy, and when that happens protein comes in handy. Eating six perfectly balanced meals, which is what most workout regimes entail in order to get in shape, can be tricky. Protein supplements can be used as fast foods because they are hearty, easy to prepare, and usually taste pretty good!
Protein supplements come in all different forms. There are different powders: whey, casein, rice, soy, egg, pea, hemp, brown rice, casein, plant-based, and more. All of these can be mixed into shakes, smoothies, water, milks, etc. They’re easy to consume on the go and help you get protein into your body fast. Protein can be taken in pill/capsule form as well but it’s not as effective. Our bodies maximize the protein absorption when it is taken in liquid form.
When To Take Protein
Knowing when to take protein is the most important part of protein supplements. If you don’t take your protein at the right time, it could all be for nothing. There are about four key times to remember when taking protein supplements.
One of the best times to take protein is immediately following a workout. Our bodies start to heal our muscles right after working out, so taking protein right away will give the body the fuel it needs to heal, recover, and grow.
It’s also important to provide our bodies with a constant supply of protein after working out so that our muscles can continue to heal. This can be done by consuming small, protein packed meals in about 3 to 4 hour intervals.
Another crucial tip is to consume a protein drink or a slow burning protein, such as cottage cheese, prior to hitting the hay. Our bodies are slowly depleted of protein while we sleep so doing this will help provide our muscles with protein that will last throughout the night.
Breakfast! The most important meal of the day, right? After sleeping for 8-10 hours, our bodies are dying to be nourished. Treat yourself to a protein packed breakfast every single morning and you won’t regret it.
What Are The Benefits Of Protein?
- Help develop lean muscle mass
- Manufacture hormones, enzymes, cellular messengers, nucleic acids, immune system components
- Help muscles recover post workout
- Encourage fat loss
- Increase satiety
- Help deliver essential nutrients to the powder
- Boost metabolic activity
What Are The Risks Of Protein?
There are a few health risks when it comes to taking protein supplements, but most can be avoided if you are taking the supplement correctly.
- Cardiovascular health risks
- Kidney health risks
- Possible imbalanced nutrition
- Digestive issues
- Unwanted weight gain
Top Brands Of Protein
- Vega
- Vega Sport
- Dymatize
- Optimum Nutrition
- BSN Sports
- Orgain
- Muscle Pharm
- Body Fortress
- Garden of Life
- Quest Nutrition
Protein can be a very beneficial supplement for men and women who are focused on bodybuilding and leading active lifestyles. If you are planning on supplementing with protein, remember to note when and how to take protein.
