Protein Drinks: When & How to Incorporate Them for Optimal Health

Protein drinks are a quick choice for meal replacement or to boost your energy in conjunction with a workout. Protein shakes are easy to prepare and are full of supplemental nutrition, making them a great solution for busy individuals. Consider the following suggestions for the best use of protein drinks in your diet.

Meal Replacement

• Reduce your intake of high-fat foods by replacing a fast-food meal with a protein shake. If you have a tendency to eat on the run or to turn to unhealthy food choices because of a lack of time, a protein drink can be a positive meal alternative when used sparingly. Although a protein drink might be a good supplement for busy days, it should not replace a healthful diet.

  For weight loss, choose a protein drink that offers high nutrition but fewer calories and less sugar than those that might be designed for those trying to bulk up as part of a sport or weightlifting program.

Exercise

• Boost your energy level and muscle-building potential by drinking a protein shake after a workout. Immediately after an intense workout, your body is highly receptive to protein and nutrients, making a post-workout protein shake an ideal solution. Protein drinks are a quick and easily digestible nutrition source, which can be assimilated more quickly after a workout than at any other time during the day.

  Choose between whey and soy protein drink selections based on the advice of your personal trainer or health-care provider.

  As with any nutritional aid, use common sense when relying on protein drinks for supplemental nutrition.