I’d like to compare the importance of protein, to breathing air but, that may seem a little extreme. Although not far off, our bodies need protein to live, grow and perform. If you have any fitness goal in mind, protein consumption is vital in order for them to be reached. Much of the fabric of our body is constructed from protein molecules such as muscle, cartilage, ligaments, skin and hair. Needless to say, whether your goal is to build muscle, lose weight or maintain health, you need adequate amounts of lean protein. Most of us know that within 30 minutes post workout we need to down some protein but, do we understand why it’s so crucial? Let’s take a look at how exactly protein shake consumption benefits our results in health and fitness.
Repair, Recover and GROW!
During workouts, especially weightlifting, we tear the fibers of our muscle tissue. The most important and productive way to begin the recovery process is by consuming a protein shake within 30 min post workout. This 30 minute post workout time frame is also known as “the window of opportunity” where your muscles are in dire need on nutrients. This is where the protein shakes become even more important. At this time your muscles are lacking and looking for the proper nutrients to replace that it just lost. This is the perfect time to feed your muscles what protein is made of, BCAA’s or amino acids. Protein is loaded with aminos as they are what’s called “The building blocks of protein.” Amino acids repair not only muscle tissue, but bones and body cells as well. Once you have consumed your protein shake, your body will be able to repair itself, protect against muscle loss and promote protein synthesis. Now, if your body does not have the proper nutrients it needs to repair its muscle fibers, instead of getting stronger you will become weaker. That is how important protein is to every fitness lifestyle. Especially if your goal is to grow, it is imperative to have a protein shake after a workout.
Eating whole food is needed to build a better body, but without the fast acting protein that goes straight to your muscle cells post workout, your results will suffer. Don’t waste your time in the gym by not knowing what type of protein to drink and when to consume it. Build a stronger, bigger and leaner you by protecting your muscles with protein.
TIP:
1- When choosing a protein shake, make sure it contains some carbs. Protein and carbs are the perfect combo because the carbs act like a broom and sweep the protein into the muscle cells.
2- Avoid fat sources post work out because it will cause the protein to digest slower and may affect recovery nutrients negatively.
Fat Loss:
Supplementing protein shakes as a snack, as well as a post workout recovery meal is a great way to burn fat. (Considering you are on regular workout routine.) Protein shakes can sometimes come with the bodybuilder stereotype, but it’s also used for weight management. The reason that is factual is because protein preserves and protects lean muscle tissue. The more lean muscle you have, the higher your metabolism will be, and more calories will be expanded. It takes more energy (calories) for our bodies to hold muscle tissue vs. fat. Eating clean foods in combination with working out and the right protein powder will produce healthy fat loss results. Getting on a cardio machine and consuming nothing after is not the way to lose weight, as some may think. If you do not consume protein after a workout, your body will take from its own muscle tissue; you will lose strength and slow your metabolism.
Another way in which protein shakes benefit fat loss is due to the BCAA’s we just discussed. New studies show that these amino acids actually encourage fat loss in stubborn areas. Again, that’s if you are working out and eating right. RTD’s (Ready to Drink) beverages are such a good weight loss aide as they are lower in calories and provide vital nutrients for your body.
If you want results in your physique, fuel your body with the proper nutrients at the proper time. The better you fuel and protect your muscles, the better results you will get!
