Whey Protein Powder
Better running performance, muscle growth, and fat loss…I think we’d agree all three of theses things sound great. Research shows that there is one drink that may aid in all of these things: Whey Protein Shakes. Both women and men can receive great benefits from supplementing a diet with protein, including recovery after intense exercise and weight loss.
Since athletes burn more proteins during intense physical activity, they need to replenish the levels of proteins in their bodies quickly. By supplementing your diet with high-quality proteins found in whey protein shakes, you can get the benefits of eating a lot of protein like muscle growth and fat loss, without eating a lot of foods high in fat and calories. This will help your muscles recover faster and come back stronger…essential to those of us putting in high mileage week after high mileage week.
Protein shakes may also help slow the deposits of fat on our bodies while simultaneously improving the amount of lean muscle. Since your body burns more energy breaking down protein, supplementing your diet with high levels of protein means your body is going to burn more calories.
Even if you aren’t training for a big race or doing an intense body building program right now, these shakes are a great thing to incorporate into your diet. Along with healthy eating, cardio, and strength training (full body, including core), you can reduce the amount of fat and increase your lean muscle over time. Putting in the hard work and being dedicated always pays off. As with anything, make sure to consult your doctor before making any major changes in your diet or fitness program.
During my last four weeks leading up to The Big 26.2, Protein Shakes are my new best friend. I make sure to drink one everyday, usually after my run. They are simple to make and you can add healthy ingredients to them to help change up the taste. Here is the flavor I’ve been drinking:
Whey Protein Shakes
I like to think of this as Lean Muscle in a Glass 🙂
1 cup Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
½ – Full Banana (I just use half to cut down on calories, but to still give it a good flavor. You can use any fruit you prefer. Berries are a very healthy addition)
1 tbsp Almond Butter
1 Scoop Vanilla Flavored Whey Protein Powder
1 tbsp Ground Flax Seed
5 Ice Cubes
**Throw in a blender and combine!**
To reduce the calories, this shake is also great with just 1 cup of Almond Milk and a scoop of Protein Powder. Simply, pour into a mixing cup, add a few ice cubes, and shake!
To learn more about the benefits of drinking Protein Shakes check out the following sites:
http://dedicatedwoman.com/blog/2011/07/25/the-benefits-of-taking-whey-protein/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/318068-what-are-the-benefits-of-protein-powder-for-women/
Debbie's Midwestern Kitchen 