Protein Shakes

APMI1986
APMI1986 Posts: 10
in Health and Weight Loss
I'm new to this...I am trying to get back into shape after having my 2nd baby. I haven't been cleared to do alot of exercise yet, but got the 'ok' to use my elliptical. Looking for general information on protein shakes...are they beneficial? what kind of protein powder do you recommend? use before or after a workout? your favorite recipes? (sorry if these are dumb questions...thinking about trying them but don't know where to start) Thanks!

Replies

  • ash190489
    ash190489 Posts: 587 Member
    I use low carb protein shakes and only drink them directly after I do a heavy lifting weights work out.

    I use two:

    * Balance (Ultimate Body Performance) - 100% Whey Protein Wpc/Wpi (chocolate flavour)
    * Gnc Lo-Carb Delite Whey Protein - Vanilla Protein Powder
  • GymChick8
    GymChick8 Posts: 37
    I have a basic whey concentrate. I get from a great supplier here in Australia. I use before and after training. And in alot of cooking. Pancakes for breakfast, smoothies, baking etc. if you google Jamie Eason recipes, she's got heaps for muffin type stuff.


    Mel
  • taekwonkenpo
    taekwonkenpo Posts: 1,004
    Well, to start, get a simple flavor profile. I would say stick with Vanilla or chocolate. There are so many different types out there and you are asking a very opinionated question. Look at the labels. Get the least amount of fat and the highest amount of protein that you can at a price that is reasonable for you. Price is important, make sure that you will be able to afford to buy more of it.

    I personally also look at Cholesterol as this is something i monitor closely but that is up to you. (Whey isolate is very good for this but more expensive)
  • lilpoindexter
    lilpoindexter Posts: 1,122 Member
    I also lift weights (besides losing fat)...I watch all the weight lifting channels on youtube, where of course they have all kinds of bro-science about which protein shake to take, at what time, in combintation with what other meals, etc. etc. etc.
    If you have a good diet you don't need it. Check to see if you get enough protein in your diet, and you are good.
  • now_or_never12
    now_or_never12 Posts: 849 Member
    Protein powder isn't a need. I take it because I don't get near enough protein in my normal diet. If you can get more than enough protein from foods you don't need a protein powder.

    There are tons of brands and types out there... I use Muscle Maxx vanilla which is sold at walmart. Tastes pretty good. I have tried body fortress chocolate however I have to only use it when baking or have to mix it with something to make it taste relatively good. Vanilla I find is the best as it's a good flavour to mix with a lot of things (I sometimes blend mine up with frozen fruits although lately I have been adding some to my morning coffee).
  • Sepa
    Sepa Posts: 243 Member
    I have USN Pure Protein IGF-1 in vanilla flavour. Price is affordable - 40g protein per 56g serving. I have mine after lifting weights
  • XXXMinnieXXX
    XXXMinnieXXX Posts: 3,459 Member
    UK usn
    Us Jay robb

    Great macros and great taste.. They fill a gap and help me meet my protein goal x
  • jacksonpt
    jacksonpt Posts: 10,413 Member
    It's really only beneficial if you aren't getting enough protein from other sources. Some people like the convenience of them as well.

    Everyone has different tastes, but Optimum Nutrition stuff is always highly recommended.

    How you make them depends somewhat on your calorie/macro needs. Make it with ice cream and peanut butter for a higher cal shake. Make it with water for low cal/high protein.
  • joybedford
    joybedford Posts: 1,680 Member
    I always use them after lifting weights and after running they help me recover quicker and I have less pain. I use a low carb one too either from my protein or one from holland and barrett can,t remember the name, I am in the UK. I often have one before bed as well as I struggle to get in enough protein and for me this is the easiest way.
  • aparker36
    aparker36 Posts: 30 Member
    My husband and I like the Optimum whey protein at GNC, we get the Natural one without any artificial sweeteners and the vanilla is best...it's a nice pallette for all sorts of things. The container is HUGE and is always on sale for around $55 and lasts over a month with both of us using it 1-2 times a day. I mix fruit into it with 1 cup of skim milk...he really likes putting a banana and a tablespoon of Natural peanut butter with a cup of skim milk. It gives you a blast of protein and a balanced "meal" especially after a workout. We both use it as a meal replacement in the morning and sometimes in the evening, that way we are getting the right mix of nutrients, lots of protein, but not consuming too many calories.
  • babyfatstarteditall
    babyfatstarteditall Posts: 22
    Congratulations on your new baby! Most of the posts on here are from serious weigh lifters and runners. I am a grandma who just walks briskly using 7 lb weights, but I am very interested in maintaining my excellent health. I have used a good protein powder in the past. I would recommend you google to read consumer comments about the taste. No sense spending a lot of money if it tastes too bad to drink. I suggest you eat a good breakfast instead and save protein powders for when you are too busy to eat. Can't beat egg white omelets with lots of mushrooms and peppers, or oatmeal with a sprinkling of cinnamon. Good luck to you!
  • xsmilexforxmex
    xsmilexforxmex Posts: 1,216 Member
    I LOVE the Chocolate Amped Wheybolic 60.. It's great with just milk as a meal replacement (I use 1 1/2 scoops vs the recommended 3) or blended with some fruit (think chocolate banana!). I am really picky about how a drink tastes, if you're like me try GNC, they take back any product within 30 days after opened.. So if you don't like the taste you can easily bring it back :)

Categories