Downing a protein shake during and after your workout is one of the top 10 ways to experience muscle gains. That's because the shake delivers fast-absorbed, muscle-bulking protein and critical amino acids that your body needs right after your muscles have been strained. If you're staring at the protein shake shelf at your favorite store and find the dozens of options daunting, exercise and fitness experts have identified some of the top protein shakes on the market.
CytoSport Monster Milk
The protein shake from CytoSport was nominated as one of 2009's best protein supplements on the market. Factors taken into consideration when selecting nominees included quality and taste. The protein product gets sold in individual 84 g packets that you can easily slip into your pocket or gym bag. When you want to drink the shake, mix with water, milk or a smoothie. Each dose contains 50 g of protein -- made up of both fast-absorbed whey protein and slower milk protein isolates -- and an enzyme extract designed to make the shake easier to digest.
Powerbar Recovery Shake
Powerbar's pre-mixed protein shake comes recommended by the editors of Bicycling magazine. They fell in love with its single-serving size that doesn't require refrigeration, so you can pack it with you to the gym -- it does taste better cold, though. Not only do you get a dose of protein in this shake, but you'll also receive 50 percent of your recommended daily allowance of calcium, plus sugar-based carbohydrates to refuel your energy after you've lifted weights.
Met-Rx Nutrition Drink
These dry protein shakes are mixed with 16 oz. of your favorite liquid, such as milk. Although it contains a minimal 2 g of fat and 250 calories, you'll get a hefty dose of 37 g of protein. Importantly, it also includes carbohydrates, which your muscles need in conjunction with the protein to replenish glycogen stores, plus antioxidants and bone-strengthening calcium.
EAS Myoplex Strength Formula Shake
EAS is well known for its dry protein powders, but it also makes pre-mixed shake products like this one. Each serving contains 25 g of protein. Because it's already mixed and ready to drink you won't waste time.
References
- "Men's Fitness"; 10 Ways to Gain Muscle; Rachel Cosgrove; Undated
- "Muscle & Fitness"; Protein Powder of the Year; September 2009
- "Road Runner Sports"; Nutrition Drinks for Recovery; Nancy Ling; Undated
- "Bicycling"; Gear & Bike Reviews: Powerbar Recovery Shake; Editors of Bicycling; June 2007
- "Bicycling"; Gear & Bike Reviews: EAS Myoplex Strength Formula Shake; Mike Cushionbury; October 2009
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