Protein Time: When to Gulp Down Your Muscle Fuel
As someone who lifts weights constantly, I know from personal experience how hard it is to get those muscle gains that you’re looking for. Protein is an excellent source to help you build muscle, but did you know that protein also helps repair muscles?
““Protein is one of the three macronutrients—along with carbohydrates and fats—that everyone needs to consume daily. Proteins are made from chemical building blocks called amino acids. There are nine essential amino acids, meaning you must get them from food because the body cannot make them.” ”
If you’re someone who practices resistance training (a type of training that involves the muscles working against a type of force) a high-protein diet is an absolute must in your routine. If you don’t get enough protein in your diet, all that work you have been doing at the gym has been a waste and we know you’re not at the gym to waste your time.
What else can protein do for your body, you may ask? Well, here are just some of the benefits that consuming that shake after your workout (yes, the answer is post-workout):
1. Protein helps develop some hormones: It gives you amino acids, cholesterol, tryptophan, and tyrosine. These are used to make hormones that regulate your health, such as insulin, testosterone, serotonin, and adrenaline. So, eat more protein and boost your hormones!
2. Protein helps develop your immune system. Your immune system relies on protein to make and activate immune cells that fight off harmful germs. Protein also helps you heal from infections and injuries by fixing damaged tissues.
3. Protein helps develop the cartilage in your muscles, bones, skin, nails and hair. Protein is not just for building muscles, it's also for beautifying your body parts. You know, the ones that people see and judge you by, like your hair, skin, and nails. And the ones that you don't see but still need, like your cartilage. Protein gives you the amino acids that make collagen, elastin, and keratin, the stuff that keeps your tissues strong, stretchy, and shiny. So, eat more protein and look fabulous!
If you want to boost your protein intake, you have many options to choose from. You can find supplements in various forms and flavours, such as pills, powders, and bars. However, not all supplements are created equal. Some may have more calories, fat, carbs, and sugar than others. That's why we suggest that you start with a powder instead of a bar. A powder can give you the same amount of protein with less unwanted ingredients. To find the best powder for you, visit your local pharmacy or fitness store and browse their protein products. You'll be amazed by the variety and quality they have. Here is a list of different types of protein supplements you can find:
Whey Protein:
Whey is a liquid that remains after making cheese from milk. It contains whey protein, which is easy for the body to use. Many people choose whey protein products to supplement their diet. Whey is what is left when milk curdles and is filtered. Some whey products are lactose-free, but they may not be widely available.
2. Casein Protein:
Casein is a protein that comes from milk, but it is different from whey. Casein takes longer to digest than whey, so it can provide a steady supply of amino acids to your muscles. Casein is also more filtered than whey, which means it has less lactose and can be easier for people who are lactose intolerant. However, not all casein products are lactose-free, so you should always read the label before buying.
3. Pea Protein:
Pea powder is a good choice for vegans who want to meet their protein needs. It comes from plants, so it does not contain any animal products. Pea protein powder can help vegans build muscle, recover from exercise, and stay healthy.
4. Hemp Protein:
Hemp is a plant-based supplement that has some benefits for health. It is not a complete protein, but it has omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the heart and brain. Hemp is also suitable for people who avoid animal byproducts, such as vegans or vegetarians.
5. Mixed Plants: Mixed plant protein supplements are great if you are vegan and looking for a plant-based protein powder, you might want to consider a mixed plant option. This type of protein powder combines different plant sources, such as brown rice, pea, hemp, chia, and flax seeds. By doing so, it offers more nutrients and amino acids than single-plant protein powders. A mixed plant protein powder can help you meet your protein needs while also providing other health benefits.
You want to know the best time to gulp down your protein shake, right? Well, don't expect a clear answer from the fitness world, because they can't agree on anything. Some swear by drinking it during their workouts, others say you must chug it within 30 minutes of finishing your sweat session. But guess what? If you drink it within two hours, you're good to go. You'll still get all the benefits of protein, like muscle building, weight loss and recovery. Now, if you're aiming for bigger muscles, you should drink your shake within 15 to 60 minutes after your workout. If you're trying to slim down, you should sip on your shake between meals throughout the day. That will keep you feeling full and satisfied. And if you're feeling sore from a tough workout, you should drink it while you exercise. Trust me, it helps.
That's all for today, folks. I hope this blog post gave you some useful tips and tricks for your fitness journey. Don't be shy to leave your feedback or questions in the comments section. And if you think this blog post is awesome and want to spread the love, go ahead and share it with your gym buddies.
See you next time, and remember: sweat is just body fat crying.
