Drinking Protein Shakes for Weight Loss
There are tons of weight loss supplements on the market. Some show promise, while others tend to be more hype than help. Some claim to boost metabolism, others boast fat burning help, while still others claim to shuffle nutrients around. One useful supplement in the weight loss wars, that often gets overlooked, is the protein shake.
The body needs protein for many vital functions. These include tissue repair and rebuilding, building of messenger enzymes and hormones, building blood cells and boosting immune defenses, and triggering responses within the body during many metabolic functions. There are many sources of protein in the human diet, however, these are often some of the first areas that get cut when dieting. Red meats, nuts and seeds, milk, eggs, and other meats all contain large amounts of protein. These foods also contain substantial calories in moderate amounts. Some, like the red meats, milk (except skim), nuts and seeds, and eggs, contain fats, as well. People following low fat diets tend to cut these foods out, and replace them with higher carbohydrate choices.
The Best Protein Shakes For Weight Loss
| Protein Drink | Regular Price | Discount Price | Servings | Buy |
| Optimum 100% Whey Protein | $74.95 | $42.99 | 77 | Buy Now |
| Isopure Protein | $67.99 | $38.99 | 21 | Buy Now |
Since the total protein content of the diet often drops with the caloric intake, supplemental protein is important. The body’s protein needs do not decrease just because a person is dieting. On the contrary, due to increased activity, they often increase. Since less protein is being ingested through whole foods, a protein shake may be just the ticket to getting the necessary protein amounts.
Finding a Protein Shake For Weight Loss Tip 1
The type of protein shake is important. It is important to find one that is low in carbohydrates, especially sugar. Since most diets fall into two main categories; low fat or low carbohydrate, extra carbohydrates are not needed in the protein shake. A person on a low fat diet has probably replaced the fat, and much of the protein, with good carbohydrate choices. A person on a low carbohydrate diet does not want extra carbohydrates. So, when looking at the nutrient content of a protein shake, a key component is the carbohydrate content.
Finding a Protein Shake For Weight Loss Tip 2
Total calories in the shake are important too. Someone trying to lose weight , and in doing so cutting calories, does not want a protein shake with a lot of extra calories. Any nutritional plan should focus on getting the bulk of the daily calories from whole foods. The body is designed to process these foods and extract the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from the foods. Highly processed foods and meal replacements do not always have the same vitamin and mineral content and do not require the same processes for digestion. If the caloric content of the protein shake is high, then the amount of whole foods will have to be reduced.
Finding a Protein Shake For Weight Loss Tip 3
Finally, a good protein shake, with good flavor, can actually serve a dual purpose. It will provide the protein needed and could serve to curb those sweet-tooth cravings. A good protein shake could replace that bowl of ice cream or piece of cake. A protein shake before going out to a social gathering will provide fullness and provide a sweet treat to reduce the urge to splurge.
Protein shakes are often overlooked in the weight loss market, but they can be a great tool for the dieter. It provides the supplemental protein needed to make up for the reduced protein in the diet. A low carbohydrate, low calorie choice will ensure that the shake does not add unnecessary calories or carbs. And, as an added bonus, the flavor can often serve to satisfy the sweet tooth. Find a good protein shake and add it to your diet to support your overall goals.