Whey Protein Shake -
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When to Take Whey Protein Shake
When to Take Whey Protein Shake? Believe it or not, there are actually several different types of occasions that you can consume whey protein shakes.
Before answering that question, let's first understand that the usage of whey protein shakes is not something that is cast in stone. In other words, the usage is flexible. It all depends on your eating plan and lifestyle.
The correct way to use a whey protein shake is to consume only when needed. That means you should always be consuming protein shakes within the boundaries of your own protein needs. For instance, if you need 150g of proteins each day, then use the protein shakes as a supplement if you feel that your current diet is inadequate.
Now let's see when it is appropriate to take whey protein shakes.
Before a workout.
If you want to take a protein shake before a workout, you can do so. Taking a shake about 1 to 2 hrs before a workout would be ideal. You don't want to consume the shake just before a workout because you will then be exercising with a semi-full tummy. You also do not want to take the shake 6 hours before, eat nothing, and then go for a workout. You will be going into starvation mode then, which is not good for health. You never want to starve your body as doing so will condition your body to store fat for the sake of survival.
After a workout.
You can also consume a shake after your workout. Usually, most fitness enthusiasts prefer to take a protein shake 20 to 30 mins after a workout. When you finish working out, your muscles start to repair. That is the best time to give proteins to your body so that your muscles can repair and grow. 20 to 30 mins will be adequate for you to cool down and rest. You may then consume the protein shake.
Taking protein shakes on non-workout days.
Can you consume protein shakes on non-workout days? The answer is yes. You see, your muscles don't grow when you are working out. They grow when you are resting. And your non-workout days are actually the days when your muscles are growing. So don't reduce your proteins intake when you are resting on your non-workout days. Continue with your protein consumption to encourage muscle growth.
Early in the morning and before going to sleep.
On both occasions, you can consume protein shakes. Before you go to sleep at night, remember that you will be spending 8 hrs without food. Will your muscles repair and grow while you sleep? The answer is yes. So consuming a shake before you go to bed is fine.
When you wake up in the morning, your body is going to go into starvation mode if you don't eat almost immediately. Your body has gone for 8 hrs at a stretch without food, and it's going to need some replenishment soon. So taking a protein shake is fine. But note that your protein shake cannot be a complete replacement of a proper breakfast meal. You should mix your shake with other foods such as fruits and bread to have a more balanced diet.
The key to knowing when to drink whey protein shakes is to pay attention to your body. When you are resting, and when you think that it's time for your muscles to repair and grow, that's when you can (and should) drink your whey protein shakes.
