Protein drinks are not a magic bullet to improved health. Purported benefits of protein shakes include weight loss and increases in muscle mass. Although protein shakes can be beneficial to those suffering from nutritional deficiencies, most people get enough protein from food sources, such as poultry, beef, legumes and milk.
Features
Manufacturers market protein drinks and powders to athletes looking to recover after a strenuous workout. Additional purported benefits include helping to build muscle once you have finished exercising and repairing muscle damage resulting from exercise. Although protein may help in muscle recovery, you don't need a special drink to achieve this effect. According to "Fitness" magazine, drinking milk after a workout can help you recover after exercise.
Daily Intake
Unless you follow a vegetarian diet and your doctor is concerned you are not getting enough protein in your diet, you do not need the extra protein from shakes. According to MayoClinic.com, the average adult needs between 46 to 56 g of protein per day. Protein drinks can contain as much as 40 to 50 g of protein per serving, which is usually enough protein for the entire day.
Weight Gain Risk
Protein drinks not only contain protein, but usually plenty of calories as well. If you are using protein drinks in addition to your regular meals, then you'll likely begin to pack on some extra pounds. If you want to use protein drinks to lose weight, you would have to reduce calories from your other meals. A better way to lose weight is to eat a low-calorie diet made up of lean meats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Considerations
In some cases, protein and extra calories are required by someone who is underweight or facing nutritional deficiencies. For instance, the American Cancer Society provides protein drink recipes for patients who need extra calories as they go through cancer treatments. If you find it difficult to eat, drinking may be easier in order to absorb the extra calories. To keep fat intake under control, consume products that use low-fat and skim milk.
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