Protein shakes are probably the most widely used bodybuilding supplement available to buy, but have you ever asked yourself; why do bodybuilders choose to supplement their diets with extra protein?

It’s easy to see why when you look at the basics of what protein is actually used for in the human body:

Protein makes up the key elements used to build and repair:

• Bones
• Muscle
• Skin
• Cartilage
• Blood
• Create enzymes and hormones

Protein is a ‘Macronutrient’ meaning that the body requires big amounts of it, unlike Vitamins & Minerals that are only needed in small quantities. However, eating vast amounts of proteins won’t build more muscle; the only way to build muscle is, in fact, through exercising.

Protein can be found in many everyday foods, particularly; Fish, Poultry, Beans, Nuts, & Whole Grains

The most common variety of protein shakes available to buy called ‘Whey Protein.’ This sort of protein is derived from Milk; however, unlike milk proteins, it doesn’t contain any fat or lactose sugar. Meaning you get all the advantages of other proteins without all the disadvantages i.e., fat.

Five reasons to supplement your diet with Protein shakes?

• Cheap to buy and widely available.
• It helps build muscle when used in conjunction with exercise.
• Increased recovery time; protein repairs muscle tissue broken down in training.
• Help maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
• Help lose weight- Protein can, in fact, cause your body to speed up its metabolism switching it to fat-burning mode. It will also help your body run more efficiently by burning fat rather than carbohydrates.

When to take protein shakes?

Protein shakes will be most effective when consumed after your workout. This is very important and will be beneficial to those wanting to gain muscle; this is because the protein can then be delivered to the muscles to start the healing process immediately when it is needed. Before bed is also a key time to take a protein shake, providing your muscles with all the protein they need to repair and grow while you sleep. Also, in the morning, it is important to replenish your protein levels after a good long sleep.

Conclusion

Protein is a key nutrient regardless of your goals; it is essentially one of the Primary building blocks to a healthier body. As a bodybuilding supplement, it is widely available to buy and convenient to use on an everyday basis. Used in conjunction with the correct exercise it will, without a doubt, be beneficial to bodybuilders looking to gain muscle. I would advise you to give it a go and try it for yourself.