Sure, fruit and vegetables are important for a healthy lifestyle, but protein is a key ingredient here too. Protein shakes and supplements are incredibly popular in the UK, and for good reason. In fact, protein has been scientifically proven to be an important factor in weight loss and getting generally fitter.
Protein shakes are some of the most popular options for anyone wanting to lose weight. But what makes protein shakes so good for losing weight? We’ve pulled together five reasons why they’re so great for shedding those extra pounds.
- Protein Shakes Won’t Add an Inch to Your Waistline
In conjunction with strenuous exercise, protein enables numerous fitness goers to gain muscle weight. Contrary to popular belief, protein doesn’t cause weight gain. The only perceived “weight gain” is the added muscle. What’s more, several protein shakes contain sugar and other flavourings to enhance the taste and some of these can be comparable to eating a chocolate bar at lunchtime. Weight gain could be caused by these additives, but if you’re eating protein from a low-sugar source or one that draws flavour from natural sources, then a protein shake certainly won’t cause an expanding waistline.
- An Alternative to Carbs to Boost Weight Loss
Protein shakes can replace carbohydrates to accelerate weight loss. Unlike carbs that give you an instant energy boost, protein takes time to be digested before it gives you the energy making it a better long-term source. It’s because of this slow burn that you lose weight. Drinking a protein shake a couple of hours before your workout means you’ll need to consume less carbs during and after your fitness session.
- Protein Builds Muscle and Muscle Burns Calories
Protein shakes deliver all the fuel your body needs to burn fat. Protein develops muscle and the bigger your muscles, the more calories your body burns. Upping your intake of protein gives your body all it needs to bolster muscles. If you make drinking protein shakes part of your routine, your system will get into a rhythm of burning calories, nonstop.
- Curb Your Appetite
Sometimes your appetite’s a fight between your mind and your stomach – and the latter normally wins. If you don’t feel full, then you’ll eat, regardless of how much you’ve eaten already. Protein can be the harmoniser in this battle. It can reduce levels of Ghrelin, the hormone that fuels the feeling of hunger. What’s more, protein such as whey comprises Glycomacropeptide, which triggers Cholecystokinin. This hormone is released after having a meal, giving you the sensation you’re no longer hungry.
- A No-Fuss Way to Add Protein to Your Diet
There’s no need to spend hours preparing a protein-heavy meal; protein shakes are an excellent, convenient way to add the right protein to your nutrition plan without the annoyance of extra meal prep. There are all sorts of high-quality supplements and flavours on the market to suit dieters wanting to shed an extra few pounds. If you’re a hard-core athlete wanting some help with your training, there are also shakes that can do just that.