Smoothies vs. Protein Shakes

daphne_gets_fit

Ok, so I am looking for a quick on the go morning meal, I've been reading alot on here about protein shakes as a meal replacement how does that work? My question is this; should I do a smoothie or a protein shake in the morning, what are the pros and cons of both.

ahappyapple

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baisleac

Fruit smoothies are going to be higher in carbs. Protein shakes are going to be higher in protein.

Best of both... Strawberry Banana smoothie with chocolate protein powder. Or Peach Mango smoothie with vanilla protein powder. :happy:

ace175

Fruit smoothies are going to be higher in carbs. Protein shakes are going to be higher in protein.

Best of both... Strawberry Banana smoothie with chocolate protein powder. Or Peach Mango smoothie with vanilla protein powder. :happy:

I agree! I just make a fruit smoothie and put a scoop of protein powder in it, so you get the deliciousness of a smoothie, and the benefit of protein powder!!

Lyadeia

Yeah, I like to combine the best of both worlds as well. I love to add fresh cherries or strawberries to chocolate protein powder and milk. Very tasty with a balance of carbs and protein.

I always try to have some protein with my carbs to lessen the degree that the insulin rush affects me that we all get from carbs. That's also why things like meat sauce are better than marinara when you are getting pasta, because the meat sauce lowers the Gi index of the entire dish.

gp79

One of the good things about protein shakes/smoothies is that you control what goes in it. Meals should generally be balanced so if you're making one for a generic breakfast meal, get yourself a good blend of carbs, protein, fiber and some fat.

Here are a few things that come to mind when I think of a breakfast shake. (will differ depending on your goals but mine are currently weight loss)

Here's one that sounds good to me

2 Cups Almond milk - 120 cal
1 Scoop GNC AMP 60 Vanilla - 93 Cal
1 tbsp Flax Seed Oil - 120 cal
1/2 cup blackberries - 30 cal
1/2 banana - 50 cal
1/4 cup egg whites - 35 cal

Total Calories: 448 Calories

I don't usually add the fruit but it does taste good in there.

Plenty of protein from multiple sources, some awesome quality fats again from multiple sources, a few carbs and fiber.