Many weight lifters prefer a much more convenient and simpler option, a homemade workout drink. A great drink can be made right in your kitchen with a blender, a bit of knowledge, and a little creativity. There are tons of options for you when you’re making your own drink. The flavor depends entirely on your own personal tastes. Adjust your consistency by adding or removing ingredients. You can also adjust how many calories your workout drink has.

First, you have to have a drink base. Water will keep calories down. Some people use milk for the extra protein while still others prefer to use fruit juice. Be careful when using juice because of the sugar content. You can adjust the consistency by adding ice. If you’re using milk, water will change it. Pick your ingredients once you’ve chosen your base.

Workout Drink Ingredients

There is a wide variety of ingredients. You can use an easily digestible, complete protein powder that is inexpensive in order to boost your protein content. Bananas will add potassium.  Protein powders are one of the best pre workout supplements you can add to your drink.  Fruits like apples, blueberries and strawberries can give you added minerals, vitamins, and flavors. If you need to increase the fatty acid content of your drink, you can add flax seed oil, fish oil, or another essential fatty acid. Even some vegetable juices can be added if you want the extra carbohydrates and vitamins. It all depends on your own personal preferences.

Add cream to increase the thickness or blend with ice for a frothy mixture. Another way to increase the frothiness is to blend it on high speed. Mixing your drink slowly will make it smoother. If you add creatine to your drink, mix it slowly so that you preserve the creatine’s integrity. Make sure to use the drink within the hour because the creatine might from indigestible creatine does not sit well in liquids.

More Ways To Make an Energy Drink

Adding a sugar substitute can enhance the flavor. Try something like Stevia since it has no calories but tastes very sweet. You can add no calorie or low calorie syrups and even a little bit of strawberry or chocolate syrup. Some think that the flavor that comes from adding protein powder or fruits is enough. It’s important to keep the calories in your drink low enough to keep from getting lethargic or bloated while you workout. Your drink should have under 300 calories if you drink it alone, and under 100 if you drink it with other food. This is because your body would have to reduce the energy it’s using elsewhere in order to process too many calories. Long last carbs and good, quality proteins are very important to make your pre workout drink complete. If you have a good mixture that has about 250 calories then start drinking it half an hour before your workout. Sip on it and water while you work out, so that the nutrients and energy is staggered and released as you go. This way you will have continual energy and your muscles will repair themselves quickly.

There are as many ways to make a homemade workout drink as there are drinks to buy. All that limits you is your own tastes and creativity. Save money and throw some inexpensive ingredients in your blender and whip up a homemade drink that’ll make the companies jealous.

The importance of having protein in your diet is known to anyone who is trying to gain a bit of muscle. Depending on what you read, intake values can range in values from one gram to pound of bodyweight to a gram of protein per kilo of bodyweight. You must get protein from foods. These can be bars, pills, tablets, drinks, powdered supplements, or whole foods. Every version has its own drawbacks and benefits. This article is only going to talk about protein bars and how to find your perfect one.

Protein bars range widely from glorified candy bars that contain little protein to bars that have a mega protein content. While the protein content is important, it is also important to know the source of protein. Whey protein is preferred by many people because it is complete and easy to digest. Some protein bars get protein from just one source. Often the best bet is to opt for a protein bar that has a blend, with the protein coming from multiple sources, because this way you’ll have all your amino acids.

The macronutrient profile of every bar will be different so you have to know what you’re looking for when you choose a bar. If you just want a bar to use as a protein supplement when you’ve not been eating a lot of protein, it’s fine to choose a bar that has just protein and a little bit of fats or carbs. If you want to use the bar to replace an entire meal because you’re trying to lose weight, then you need to make sure the bar has complete nutrition. It should have fats, carbs, vitamins, minerals, and proteins in as compact a caloric content as you can find. If you are looked to bulk yourself up, then you need extra calories as well as protein. You should choose a protein with a high calorie content, lots of complex carbs, and essential fats.

There are protein bars that do double duty as energy bars. These bars have a bit less protein but they are solid nutrition overall. Sometimes they have stimulants such as white tea, ginseng, or caffeine to help support energy. These are great to eat pre workout for an energy boost, especially if you didn’t eat before your workout. While these bars do give you some protein, they don’t give you enough to allow your muscles to repair themselves after a workout so you need to supplement with additional protein.

The final factor in choosing a bar is how it tastes. It doesn’t matter how good a protein bar is for you if you hate the taste because you won’t keep eating it. Most bars have fats for consistency and some sugar for flavoring. What you need to do is find a bar that has the least sugar and lowest saturated fat content that also tastes good to you. You’ll probably need to do some experimentation to find one. When you find a brand that you like, try out other flavors so that you can enjoy more than one.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to choose a great protein bar; you just need some knowledge of what you should look for. Any protein bar should have a base of high quality proteins, then it should also have complex carbs, healthy fats, and flavor that you can enjoy, or at least tolerate. Keep in mind that a protein bar isn’t a dessert, so it probably won’t taste like candy bars since it is a supplement.

Let’s take a look at each of these three proteins and what they have to offer. Starting with soy, we find a protein that is complete (containing all the essential amino acids) and available in abundance. This protein is extracted from the soybean. It is processed to produce a soy protein isolate. This is a highly digestible source of amino acids for building muscle. The benefit of soy protein is the low fat, cholesterol, and calorie content. Vegans find this protein useful because it is a plant based protein and provides the complete array of amino acids. Soy protein can be gritty and some users complain of a little after taste.

Casein Protein

Casein is found in cow’s milk, and makes up 80% of the protein in milk. This is the curd that results when milk is left to sour. This is the most commonly used protein in the food industry. Casein itself is not readily dissolved in water so the salts, caseinates, are more often found in the ingredient lists of foods and supplements. Calcium caseinate is the most commonly used caseinate in foods and supplements. It is a smooth protein and breaks down slowly in the digestive tract. It coagulates in the stomach which results in a slower digestion and a feeling of fullness. Unfortunately, this is also the reason for the uncomfortable gas and bloating sometimes associated with protein shakes.

Whey Protein

Whey protein is the other 20% of milk protein. It is a natural by-product of cheese making. In its raw form it contains fats, lactose, and other milk products. Most whey is processed to produce whey protein concentrates and whey protein isolates which are very protein rich. Whey protein is made up of very high-biological-value proteins. The two main proteins in whey are beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-lactoglobulin, which account for almost 80% of the total whey protein. Also found in whey, in smaller amounts, are immunoglobulins IgG, glycomacropeptides, bovine serum albumin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and lysozyme.

Whey protein isolates can be prepared several different ways. The ion-exchange method produces isolates that are high in protein but low in glycomacropeptides, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and some bioactive peptides. Microfiltration, or ultrafiltration, isolates have a higher content of glycomacropeptides, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and the bioactive peptides, but less bovine serum albumin. Cross-flow microfiltration produces an undenatured protein with greater than 90% protein and it retains the natural sub-fractions with no fat or lactose. There are three main forms of whey protein. Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolates (HWPI) are very easily digested, but it is expensive to process and leaves a very bitter aftertaste that cannot be covered by sweeteners or flavoring. Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) is also easily digested, but it has a much better flavor than HWPI. It is made using cross-flow microfiltration which also means it is virtually fat- and lactose-free. The last group is Whey Protein Concentrates (WPC) which is the least expensive form, but it has a wide variance of protein content, is not as readily digested, and may contain a larger amount of fat, carbohydrates, and lactose.

Soy Protein

Soy protein is a great choice for the person looking to add complete proteins without animal sources. It also has other health benefits found in soy. Casein is a cheaper protein, that breaks down slower, so there is a sustained release of amino acids. This is a good choice for a night time protein supplement. Whey, especially WPI, is a good choice for someone looking to get no fat, lactose free, protein that can be absorbed quickly into the system, especially after a workout. Each protein has its benefits, and its drawbacks. Give each type a try, or find a supplement that incorporates each in its formula.  Looking to choose a dirnk with the right type of protein for you?  Check out the best protein shakes.

Gaining Weight

Quality, high-intensity strength training is the key to providing the stimulus for muscle growth. Heavy, compound exercises (like squats, bench press, dead lifts) done in good form will tear the muscles down, which prompts the body to build them back up stronger and bigger. Rest is vital to growth, the muscles can’t grow if they are constantly being broken down. It is during rest that the repair and rebuilding process happens.

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The muscle fibers are made up of protein. They require lots of amino acids to rebuild after a strenuous workout, and to build additional fibers. This protein has to come from the diet because the body cannot make most of the amino acids needed in the process. Good quality, whole-food proteins are the best proteins for this need, however, most people cannot eat enough whole food to cover the increased protein needs of a hard training athlete. Athletes may need as much as 1 to 1.5 pounds of protein per pound of lean bodyweight. This is a lot of protein for the 200 pound athlete.

Protein Shakes To Gain Weight

When looking to gain weight, protein shakes provide the necessary protein to keep building muscle. A shake with good complex carbohydrates and some quality fats is a good option. It will provide the carbohydrates and fats for energy to process and use the proteins. It will also help increase overall caloric intake, to offset the increased energy expenditure during workouts. A good quality breakfast, with a protein shake, will start the body off in the growth direction. Then drinking a shake between meals will boost calories and protein throughout the day. A shake post workout is essential for growth, the body will be starving for protein at this point. It is vital to feed the muscles. Finally, a good high protein, slow digesting shake before bed will help keep the muscles fed even while you are sleeping.

There are many shakes on the market and most have value. It is best to have two different types, a fast digesting and slow digesting. The fast digesting is good for post workout and later afternoon shakes. The slow digesting ones are good for morning shakes and pre-bed supplementation. Flavor is important, because you want to be able to drink the shake on a regular basis, however, it should not be the sole selling factor. Remember, sugar does nothing for muscle growth, and most super sweet protein powders have a large sugar content. Find one that you enjoy the taste of, but don’t look for the equivalent of an ice cream parlor milk shake.

The protein shake can be an important tool in the weight gain game. Most people want to build muscle and protein is vital to muscle growth. After providing the stimulus for growth with an intense workout, protein must be taken in to feed those muscles. A quick, convenient protein shake is just the ticket for getting that muscle building protein and growing those massive muscles.  Check out the best protein shakes.

Making a Homemade Protein Shake

There are two versions of the homemade protein shake. The first version uses a protein powder base and then you add the additional ingredients and flavoring. Many people prefer to buy unflavored, or vanilla, protein powders and then add their own flavor twists. Flavor extracts, syrups, fruits, and even vegetables can be added for flavor. Healthy oils, flax seed, and fruits and vegetables can be added for additional nutritional value. When mixed with milk the protein content rises, as does the total caloric amount. For those individuals looking to gain weight with a protein powder, cream, eggs (substitutes or powder, not raw), corn starch, and other additives can be thrown in to boost the total calorie count.

The second version of homemade protein shakes requires a little more work. It is generally less expensive, but requires pulling together all the ingredients yourself. There are many ingredients that can be used to increase the protein content, and make a true protein shake. To start, we have the base. This can be water, milk, or a combination. A skim milk base is a good way to start, it allows the addition of other ingredients, and it mixes well. Next comes the protein content. First, let’s look at the liquid choices. Cream, liquid (pasteurized) egg substitutes, buttermilk, and evaporated milk all make good choices for additional protein. Powdered choices allow you to pack more protein in a smaller amount. Nonfat powdered milk adds 8 grams of protein and 12 grams of carbohydrates in a one-third cup serving. Powdered egg products add even more punch in a small package, although the flavor and consistency can be an issue if too much is used. Powdered egg products add about 6 grams of quality protein in a 2 tablespoon serving.

There are other ingredients that can be added for flavoring and protein. Peanut butter is a good choice for those who like peanut butter. Almond butter may be another good choice. Some people choose to puree some nuts and seeds and throw them in. After the protein content is taken care of, flavoring and total caloric content can be adjusted with other ingredients. Fruits, sugar (or sugar substitutes), flavor syrups (fat-free and calorie free flavorings are available), and flavor extracts are all ingredients that can be adjusted to taste.

Homemade Protein Drink Example

• A shake with 12 oz of skim milk
• 4 tbsp powdered egg
• 1/4 cup of evaporated milk
• 1/3 cup of powdered milk
• 1 tbsp stevia
• 2 tbsp of DaVinci Syrups Chocolate
• 2 tbsp of DaVinci Syrups Banana

All blended with 2 ice cubes in a blender will provide a very thick, smooth chocolate banana protein shake.

Nutritional breakdown of this shake is as follows:

• Calories- 440
• Protein- 37 grams
• Carbohydrates- 38 grams
• Fats- 8 grams.

Powdered milk can be purchased very inexpensively, one source had a 5 lb bag for under $25. Powdered egg product can also be found fairly inexpensively, around $16 for 2.25 pounds (which is equivalent to almost 90 eggs.)

Homemade protein shakes can be made using commercial protein powders, or by using protein rich ingredients in a milk base. Either shake will provide complete proteins, but some people prefer the ease and convenience of using commercial protein powders, while others prefer the versatility, and cheaper cost, of using their own ingredients. Either way, a homemade protein powder gives you the ability to tailor the taste and consistency to your needs and preferences. It doesn’t take a gourmet to whip up a delicious homemade protein shake, just your imagination and some dry bulk products.

If you wish to just purchase some pre made protien shakes then you might take a look at out article on the best protein shakes.

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

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.

Nature’s Best Isopure Protein contain 100% ion exchange whey protein isolate. Nature’s Best claims in their advertising that their product is lactose free, fat free, aspartame free, carbohydrate free, and glutamine enriched. It also claims there is 0 grams of sugar and it can be mixed with a spoon. It is rich in Branched-chain amino acids and glutamine.

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Nature’s Best Zero-Carb Isopure contains 200 calories, 0 grams of fat and carbohydrates, and 50 grams of protein per 2 scoop serving. It also contains an array of vitamins and minerals. It is available in flavors like Creamy Vanilla, Dutch Chocolate, and Strawberries & Crème, and others. It also comes in ready-to-drink glass bottles in flavors like Passion Fruit, Mango Peach, and Apple Melon, among others. It comes in 3 pound and 7.5 pound containers. It is also available in low carb and endurance formulas.

Nature’s Best Isopure Protein (3lbs)

Regular Price: $67.99

On Sale: $38.99

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Nature’s Best Isopure Protein Review

Isopure does have a whopping 50 grams of protein per serving, which may be more than the body needs in one sitting. It would be a good post workout drink, when the body is primed for protein delivery. The flavor, especially the fruity flavors, can take some getting used to. Fruity flavored protein shakes, with the thick, gritty texture, is a tough sell at first. The chocolate, vanilla, and other traditional flavors are a bit weak. This one averages out at a little over $1.50 per serving, but packs 50 grams of easily digested protein in those servings.

Nature’s Best Isopure has a very high protein content with little or no carbohydrates and fats. For this reason it makes a great diet tool, but not so good for bulking and weight gain. It may be just the supplement needed for the dieting lifter who still wants to pack on lean muscle tissue.

Nature’s Best Isopure Report Card:

• Taste: B-
• Consistency/Mixability: B
• Protein Content: A
• Calorie Conten: A
• Cost: B

Overall, this product is a good try for the lifter who wants to shed some fat and support, or gain, lean muscle. Although the price per serving may be a bit high, it is very reasonable when looking at the price per gram of protein (and compared to other supplements.)

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According to advertising claims “One extraordinary Nitro-Tech Hardcore subject packed on 8.4 lbs. of dense muscle in just 14 days!” MuscleTech uses a “Nanomolecular Hyperdispersion Technology” system to process the protein into very small molecules that are quickly digested and used to speed up protein synthesis in the muscles. It also contains Nitroxen, which is a nitric oxide (NO) accelerator. Along with that is SynthePro, an ultra-absorbing amino acid complex, and Insulogen, a mix of insulin activators to help drive the nutrients into the muscles.

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MuscleTech’s Nitro-Tech Hardcore contains 110 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of protein (with their trademarked Nano-Diffuse technology), in each 1 scoop serving. It comes in 2, 4 and 5 pound containers. It comes in flavors like Banana Cream, Vanilla Cake Batter, Strawberry Banana, and Tropical Fruit, among others. A two pound container has about 32 servings.

MuscleTech Nitro-Tech Hardcore (5lbs)

Regular Price: $79.99

On Sale: $49.99

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MuscleTech Nitro-Tech Hardcore Review

MuscleTech’s NitroTech Hardcore has a fairly weak taste, although with only 110 calories per scoop it is safe to add a little extra powder for the flavor. It mixes fairly well with water or milk, but has the familiar protein gritty consistency, especially with water. It is designed to be a good pre- and post-workout drink, but the NO boost is not as powerful as many other NO supplements. At less than $1 per serving it is a pretty good value.

MuscleTech’s Nitro-Tech Hardcore has a fair amount of protein with low carbohydrates and fats. For this reason it is a good choice for the dieting bodybuilder or someone looking to add protein without a lot of excess.

MuscleTech’s Nitro-Tech Hardcore Report Card:

• Taste: B
• Consistency/Mixability: B+
• Protein Content: B+
• Calorie Content: A
• Cost: A

Nitro-Tech Hardcore is a fairly good value in protein powder, but the extra ingredients do not seem to enhance it the way they are claimed. Overall, it is still a good try for someone still searching for the right protein shake.

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Cytosport’s Muscle Milk packs other nutrients into their protein shake than just protein. They include a creatine support complex, which increases the body’s own production of creatine, growth peptides, lactoferrin, secretory IGA, and LeanLipids, which promote leanness. These extra ingredients make it easier to feel the effects of muscle milk while using it.

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Cytosport’s Muscle Milk contains 350 calories, 17 grams of carbohydrates (with 7 grams of sugar), 17 grams of fats (of which 7 grams are saturated), and 34 grams of protein in each 2 scoop serving. Cytosport does offer a light version of Muscle Milk, as well, which contains 195 calories, 6 grams of fat, 11 grams of carbohydrates, and 25 grams of protein. Muscle Milk also comes in convenient ready-to-drink formulas. They also have a Monster Milk formula which boosts the protein content to 50 grams per serving. Muscle Milk comes in flavors like Cookies ‘n Creme, Strawberry Milkshake, Brownie Batter, and Chocolate Milk to name just a few.

CytoSport Muscle Milk (5lbs)

Regular Price: $82.95

On Sale: $49.95

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CytoSport Muscle Milk Review

The fat content of Muscle Milk is part of its LeanLipids formula which includes Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). The carbohydrates are fairly high, but still below the protein level. Although the calories are fairly high, even in the light formula, the two scoop serving size allows for easy halving of the servings. This shake does contain enough of each nutrient, and a fair amount of vitamins and minerals, to serve as a meal replacement in a pinch. The flavor is pretty good and it mixes fairly well, although can leave a bit of grit behind if mixed with a shaker instead of blender. The ready-to-drink formulas have a smooth texture, making them a great choice for nutrition on the run. The price averages out to less than $1.50 per serving, average to a little high for protein shakes.

Cytosport’s Muscle Milk has a good amount of protein although the carbohydrate and fat content are also high. This does make it a more viable choice for a breakfast drink or meal replacement, if needed. The extra ingredients make it a great pre-workout protein supplement.

Cytosport’s Muscle Milk Report Card:

• Taste: A-
• Consistency/Mixability: B+
• (RTD) Protein Content: A
• (regular Muscle Milk) Calorie Content: B
• Cost: B+

Overall, Muscle Milk does have some good positive benefits and would be a great addition to a bulking cycle, but may be used for the average bodybuilder as a day to day protein shake, also.

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The Best Protein Shakes

The move started with liver tablets, then amino acid tablets and protein shakes. Today, you can find protein in almost any form on the market. Protein shakes are by far the most popular form of protein supplement. They are convenient, easy to use, and provide large amounts of protein. Most protein powders come in an assortment of flavors. Chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry are the common offerings, but some have exotic flavors like Banana Cream, Mint Chocolate Chip, or Peanut Butter Caramel. While flavor is not the only factor in choosing a protein shake, it sure does make it easy to take on a regular basis.

On that same note is consistency, and what it mixes well with. Some shakes only mix well with milk, while others will mix with water, or even juice. The consistency after mixing can range from a chalky, gravelly mix to a smooth, almost milkshake-like, texture. This is often due to the ingredients in the shake. Part of that has to do with how it is mixed, also. Many protein shakes boast claims of easily mixing with a shaker or spoon. However, most shakes mix best in a blender, to ensure even mixture and all the clumps are dissolved.

Protein Drink Content

One of the most important factors in a protein shake, many argue the most important, is the actual protein content. This can be broken down into two parts; the type of protein and the amount. Many protein products on the market today have some sort of “proprietary blend”, or other big name for their special formulation of proteins. Whey is a popular protein, as well as other milk based proteins. Egg proteins are getting better, also. They have always been a great protein source, however, in the past the ability to mix it without a blender has been an issue, but, thanks to new technologies, it is much easier to mix now. Soy protein is the protein of choice for the vegetarian bodybuilder. All three proteins can be easily digested and used by the body, and they all provide a complete array of amino acids. The type of protein really comes down to personal choice. Some people swear by egg proteins over all the others, while others might feel they get better results from whey or soy.

Amount of protein, especially when compared to other macronutrients, is an area that can make or break a protein powder. A protein powder with a low protein content, per serving, that is loaded with sugar, for flavoring, is not a good choice. Some complex carbohydrates, a little good fat, and loads of protein is a good choice. Mega protein in each scoop may be unnecessary, and expensive. An average of between 18 and 35 grams of protein is good. Any less than that and you might as well just drink a tall glass of milk (it would be cheaper.) Any more than that and the body will have a hard time processing it all. A person looking to lose weight should limit the total calories, thereby limiting the fats and carbohydrates. A person looking to gain weight should find a product with plenty of complex (not sugar) carbohydrates, healthy fats, and total proteins.

The Best Protein Shakes

Picking the Best Protein Shake

So, the right protein shake depends on several factors. Taste and consistency is important, but not the most important factor. Protein content is vital, too little and it’s a waste of money, too much and the body ends up flushing some of that expensive protein out without using it. Some shakes come in ready-to-drink formats, which add to the ease of use and portability of the protein. The best way to decide which protein shake is right for you is to try it, evaluating the taste and texture, and once you find one you enjoy, give it a month or two and see if it works for muscle repair and building. The right protein shake is one that you can drink on a regular basis and one that provides a complete set of essential amino acids to the hardworking muscles.