Grabbing a protein shaker and getting all the nutrients you need quickly and efficiently is easy. Shakes are everywhere, from the local gym to the Instagram accounts of your favorite influencers. It is a fact that protein is an essential nutrient for everyone. It helps build muscles, stabilize metabolism, and balance hormone levels. Does it matter if you take it as a powder or food to get it? We’ll examine the two options to see which is best for you.
What are protein shakes, exactly?
What is the powder made of before comparing protein drinks to food?
Both plant-based and dairy products are available in various shapes and sizes. Whey and soy are the most common sources. Whey is the best choice for those who do not follow a plant-based lifestyle. It’s complete (it contains all essential amino acids for nutrition) and low-fat protein. Vegans may prefer to consume soy or plant-based proteins.
Shakes also contain many vitamins and minerals that your body needs. One serving contains 20-30 grams or half the daily protein requirement.
Bumpy Ride to Nutrition
Do all these things make protein shakes the perfect supplement to whole foods? It turns out that not really. Even though shakes are a great way to get nutrients, they still can’t do everything.
Whole foods contain many nutrients, antioxidants, and fibers your body requires. In our “protein shake vs. food” challenge, food gets an A+. Shakes lack natural fats, but real protein-based food has a good amount. Fat and protein are essential for health, even if you plan to lose weight.
Natural products can also have a specific dynamic action’ or, as it is commonly known, a thermic effect. Whole foods are usually chunky and require digestion. Your body also burns calories as it processes them. If you must choose between protein shakes and food, the best way to get your protein is from whole foods.
Need or treat?
Shakes can be a great way to build muscle mass. There is no need to pick a winner between real food and protein powder. It is healthy to include protein-based foods in your diet. Shakes are a great way to boost your energy, but they shouldn’t be the only thing you eat.
Why drink it?
Even with all the nutrition and meal preparation advice available, finding time to prepare meals according to your fitness goals can still be challenging. Here are some of the benefits that shake offer:
Speed up
It can be prepared quickly, consumed, and absorbed. Solid products take much longer to reach muscles. The powder is more convenient if you have to choose between a protein shake or a steak after a hard workout.
Accessibility
Do you have time to prepare a nutritious meal that is well-planned? Grab a shaker, and go about your daily routine. Get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals and a boost in protein. It’s better than the milkshakes you get at a drive-through. But remember that tofu or fish steak are also good options.
Enjoy the taste of the world with a variety of tasty foods.
Shakes are not only healthy, but they also taste great! You can choose chocolate, vanilla, coconut, banana, or any other flavor. Most of the goodness is derived from artificial sweeteners, so do not get too used to them.
