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When To Drink Protein Shakes
When to drink protein shakes? This is a good question, and has been addressed in several articles.
Many who are new to bodybuilding want to know when is the best time to drink protein shakes. Here are some recommendations.
Right AFTER a workout
If you browse around the articles on this site or any bodybuilding related forum, you will quickly learn that your body absorbs protein quickly during a 1 to 2 hour window after a workout. That is when your body is thirsty for amino acids and drinking a protein shake during that window will get you optimal results. Does that mean you shouldn't be drinking protein shakes if you miss that window? Absolutely not. Your ultimate goal is to consume enough protein to meet your daily requirements. So even if you miss the window, do continue to drink your protein shakes.
Before a workout
If you want to drink a protein shake before a workout, try to give at least 2 hours for your body to digest the shake. Working out with a full stomach can prevent you from having an effective workout. In general, try not to eat anything right before working out. Whenever possible, leave the eating and drinking to AFTER the workout.
Breakfast
Your breakfast is perhaps the most important meal of the day because it provides you with the energy to deal with the daily activities. So this is one of the best time to consume a protein shake for breakfast. 40 grams of high quality protein (from the shake) and a whole range of vitamins and minerals from your breakfast meal will surely boost your energy level.
Before going to bed
Your muscles will continue to recuperate while you sleep. So yes, if your body doesn't protest, it makes sense to consume protein shakes before to bed. Your body has at least 8 hours to absorb the protein and use it for muscle repair and growth.
Recovery days
Continue to drink your protein shakes on recovery days. Your body still needs protein for growth and repair even when you don't work out.
More information on when to take whey protein shakes and when to drink a protein shake.
