Nutritional Decision: Knowing the Best Time to Take Protein

man drinking protein shake

Protein powders and bars are among the world's most widely consumed dietary supplements. Many people utilise them in an effort to enhance their health and fitness, whether by increasing muscle mass, decreasing body fat percentage, or both.

However, many individuals have questions about the optimal timing of these measures. Depending on your fitness objectives, this article will tell you when you should consume protein.

1. Consume Protein in the Morning to Lose Weight and Control Your Appetite

Amino acids power your metabolism while you sleep. Therefore, it is always recommended to ingest protein upon waking in order to provide your body with an additional supply of amino acids. Whey protein's abundance of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) aids in the development of lean muscle, which in turn increases resting caloric expenditure and fat oxidation.

Taking whey protein first thing in the morning will help you feel satiated for longer, reducing cravings for unhealthy meals and snacks.

What do we recommend? A healthy breakfast smoothie is a great way to kickstart your day, eliminate hunger pangs, and aid in weight loss.

2. Consume Protein before Your Workout to Avoid the Potential for Catabolic Effects

You may have catabolic repercussions if you don't take advantage of your anabolic window. At least partially.

Although consuming protein before working out has been shown to increase MPS, a clinical trial indicated that taking an essential amino acid supplement before working out yielded even greater results. This is a great alternative for people who feel uncomfortable working out soon after consuming a protein drink. Sports requiring long periods of exertion, high-intensity interval training, and CrossFit are all examples. Perhaps a whey belly helps when doing the incline leg press.

Whether specialising in strength or endurance training, most athletes could benefit from taking an EAA powder before their workout. The most important takeaway is that consuming either EAA supplements or protein powder before working out may have a protective impact on muscles.

You should choose a protein source before beginning a supplementation programme.

When you should consume, protein can vary depending on the kind you choose. Although the amino acid composition of the protein is crucial, it is not the only factor to think about when making your protein selection. After all, people have different nutritional needs and preferences.

Below are the three most common forms of protein powder used as post-workout supplements:

  • Plant proteins
  • Whey protein concentrates
  • Whey protein isolates

3. Consume Protein after Exercise to Promote Muscle Growth and Speed up Recovery

Another time to consume whey protein for muscle growth and repair is immediately following exercise. Working on exercise puts stress on your muscles and other tissues. Consuming protein soon after exercise provides the TLC your body needs to kickstart the mending process.

Soon after you finish a hard workout or strength training session, your body begins the recuperation and muscle development process. Aim for 20-30 grammes of organic whey protein as soon as possible. Your body's ability to develop and repair muscle will be bolstered, and you'll feel more energised as a result. Whey protein is best consumed 30 minutes after exercise.

Conclusion

Indeed, protein is an important part of the human diet, and it is necessary to know the best time to take it in order to make the most of its benefits. The body can use protein to build and repair muscle tissue, so it is especially important after a workout. However, protein can also help to boost the immune system, so it is a good idea to take it regularly throughout the day.

Take note of our pointers above and consult a professional for much clearer protein intake instructions.

If you are looking for a great source of workout supplements, look no further than our amazing selections here at Purpose Nutritions. We provide premium quality workout supplements and sports vitamins to increase your energy and endurance, including protein powders, fat burners, amino acids, mass gainers and more. Check out our online shop for a complete collection of all our protein shakes.