Understanding Protein Shakes

Protein shakes have become very popular for their convenience for gaining greater endurance or for losing weight.  They are not all the same and, through manufacturing, will have different levels of needed ingredients.  This article is a short breakdown to help you decide what’s best for your needs and your lifestyle. Read more shakes reviews on healthguidereviews.info.

First, you must decide if protein shakes are a good option for you along with understanding their contents before selecting one.  Most adults will get all the protein they need in their foods.  The average adult should take in approximately 45 to 56 grams each day.  If you are very athletic, you will need more protein and calories each day.  If you are athletic or workout regularly, protein shakes might be a good choice.

About Protein Shakes:

The level of protein in shakes can vary quite a bit but they all have a certain level of carbohydrates and some fat content.  They come in either powder or liquid form and offer a variety of flavors.  Before choosing a protein shake, you should read the label and find out how much protein and carbs are in a  particular shake.  Someone who has a serious workout plan or is a bodybuilder  will need more protein than the average active individual.  If you are dairy intolerant, look for protein shakes that contain either rice or soy as an alternative.

The difference in Protein Shakes can be determined by your goals.

If you want to lose weight, you should look for shakes that are low in carbohydrates but are mainly high protein.  You should read the label and make sure the protein content is more than 50%.

If you are a high-performance runner, competing in marathons, you should look for protein shakes that are higher in carbohydrates.  Carbohydrates will add to your overall endurance.

The following ingredients are found in protein shakes, but read the label to find out what levels of protein, fats and or carbs are included.  The percentages listed below are based on an ingredient in their natural state:

Milk:

Even low-fat milk gets 35% of calories from fat, 8.2 grams of protein and 30% daily requirement for calcium.

Eggs:

6 grams of  protein, 78 calories and 5 grams of fat.

Whey & Casein:

The leading proteins found in milk are from whey & casein and are excellent sources for essential amino acids.

Other Ingredients Include:

Rice and Soy

Keep in mind, how these ingredients are manufactured will decide the level of protein and how well your body will use them.

The best way to get excellent protein is through your dietary intake and supplementing with a combination of casein and whey.  Whether your body can or cannot handle dairy products should be a factor regarding these shakes.

If you are intolerant to dairy products, look for protein shakes that are made from Soy or Rice protein.  Soy and Rice are plant based proteins and will be just as effective.

Again, read the labels and choose what will work best for your body and your lifestyle.