Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
February 9, 2010
Protein shakes are a great addition to any healthy lifestyle. Particularly if you are working on increasing protein consumption, they offer a great alternative to the old standby chicken breasts and tuna fish. Drinking the same shake day in and day out, however, can lead you to tire of them quickly. As with every nutritional food supplement, a little variety is needed to keep you on the right track and interested in keeping protein shakes as part of your daily diet.
My first suggestion: have more than one flavor in your cupboard. If your favorite protein shake comes in more than one flavor, indulge and buy at least two! I say this because even when you use add-ins, some days just scream for chocolate while others are more of a plain vanilla day. The more flavor varieties you have to play with the more likely you will be to stick with the shakes and not cringe at the thought.
Secondly, stock up on add-ins. Add-ins are those things that can easily be added to your protein shake to completely change the flavor and add nutritional value. Fruit is an obvious choice here with berries being a top recommendation for their antioxidant benefits. Peanut butter is another great idea if you can afford the fat; it further boosts the protein in your shake and gives the beverage a smooth creamy consistency. Yogurt, ground flax seeds, and honey are some other great ideas.
Lastly, don’t drink your protein shake at the same time every day. If you are using the protein shake as a recovery drink you are the exception. However, if you use it as a snack or meal replacement, switch it out from breakfast to lunch or vice versa. It’s all about variety here and because protein shakes are so versatile, using them at different times of day can provide a nice change.
Just like your workouts, changing up the routine with your protein shake can make a big difference in how you feel about them. Don’t get stuck in a boring rut if you plan on making this a long term habit. And with high quality protein like our Whey Protein Powders, why would you want anything different?
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
December 18, 2009
One of the issues many people have with supplements of any kind are the fact that they are a substitution for actual, nutritious food. Our bodies crave nourishment and proper nourishment at that. They were designed perfectly to process foods, from the chewing to the elimination. Our digestive systems are obviously equipped for food so some wonder why we would substitute liquid or capsule supplements for it. In discussing eating protein vs. drinking a protein shake, looking at the motivation behind supplementation is crucial.
Most people who are thinking about using protein supplements are already healthy. They are typically on a fitness program and seeking a way to get high quality protein in a convenient matter. Very seldom, though it does occur, are people under the misconception that supplements can somehow make them healthy.
For those people weighing the benefits of eating protein vs. drinking a protein shake, it often boils down to convenience.
Plain and simple: when undertaking a muscle building workout plan, protein consumption is often increased to assist the body’s natural muscle building abilities. Protein can help us build muscle by facilitating the repair of tissues broken down in a strenuous workout. In order to further encourage this, you will often see people cutting back on carbs and sugars in exchange for high quality protein.
Wanting to boost protein consumption is easy, stomaching it can be difficult. There aren’t many snack options today that combine concentrated protein levels with convenience. Carrying around a chicken breast isn’t really feasible; neither is making an egg white omelet at work. While real food is always a good choice, supplementing with protein shakes and good quality protein bars like the P90X protein bars is an easy move that allows you to boost your protein while moving throughout the day.
Are we suggesting you get all of your protein from protein supplements? Never. However, using them as a tool in your nutritional arsenal simply gives you a quick and easy way of boosting protein without growing tired of the old standbys. When considering eating protein vs. drinking a protein shake, go with the food when you can but don’t be afraid to use protein shakes as a good secondary option.
If you’re looking for the right kind of protein shakes to add to your plan, take a look at the Vanilla and Chocolate Whey Protein Powders we carry here. These shake mixes taste excellent and deliver 18 grams of protein per serving.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
December 2, 2009
Bananas are one of the most popular if not THE most popular protein shake addition. They are loaded with potassium, which can prevent cramping, and are a great addition to a fitness plan. In addition, they are just the right size and highly portable. They pack a lot of flavor and give protein shakes just the amount of extra taste to break up the monotony of supplementing. A banana protein shake can be as simple or as complex as you have time for.
Typically, adding a half of a banana to your protein shake can give it just the right amount of flavor. This is the simplest way to make your banana protein shake. If you like chocolate, a chocolate protein powder mixed with the banana may transport you to long ago, the last time you had a banana split. Use ice instead of water and add pineapple for a tropical flair or add almonds and peanut butter when your protein really needs a boost.
Depending on your calorie and nutrient allowances for the day, you could add all sorts of yummy things to your banana protein shake. Consider the following add ins for extra variety:
- Handful of crushed almonds
- Yogurt or Kefir
- Strawberries
- Peanut Butter
- Pineapple
Your banana protein shake or any protein shake is only limited by your nutritional plan and your imagination. Get creative. If you use your protein shake as a meal replacement, it gives you more freedom with additions.
A banana protein shake is a great addition to your nutritional arsenal. When considering protein shakes that can deliver superior nutrients, take a look at the Beachbody Whey Protein Powders in both Vanilla and Chocolate.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
November 11, 2009
When trying to get fit, proper nutrition is just as important as a hardcore fitness program. Eating right is crucial in getting the best results. Supplementing with capsule and liquid supplements can help fill in the gaps, so to speak, when it comes to your nutrition. Just like a superior multivitamin can ensure you are getting the vitamins and minerals missing in your diet, so too can vanilla whey protein shakes assist you in getting additional protein throughout the day.
Good vanilla whey protein shakes can serve several purposes in the diet of an athlete. And if you are doing workouts like those in P90X you are already an athlete or well on your way!
Vanilla whey protein shakes are a protein supplement first and foremost. Many high intensity fitness programs require you to increase your protein intake far beyond what you might normally be accustomed to. Supplements like vanilla whey protein shakes make this far easier to take. Because there are times when a chicken breast just doesn’t sound appetizing!
In addition to a basic protein supplement, vanilla whey protein shakes are also a good choice for convenient meal replacement. In a rush? A protein shake for breakfast can jump start your metabolism for the day and it’s super convenient. If you are considering a snack from the vending machine, it might serve you well to bring your protein shake mix to the office. Vanilla whey protein shakes make great snacks as well.
There are several options when considering vanilla whey protein shakes and other ways to up your protein throughout the day. Not only are there additional flavors, there are also protein bars. By keeping a good variety of protein sources in your diet, you will find it isn’t as easy to get ridiculously bored with your new eating habits.
Check out the Vanilla Whey Protein supplement we carry here. You will find that it is filled with premium ingredients and tastes great. We also offer chocolate shakes and a variety of protein bars.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
July 18, 2009
When you enter the fitness world, whether from purchasing a product like P90X or reading a fitness magazine, it won’t be long before you begin to realize just how popular protein supplements among people working on creating the best body possible. Protein supplements like vanilla whey protein shakes are used by everyone from professional bodybuilders to the average housewife looking to lose some extra weight.
High quality vanilla whey protein shakes offer optimal nutrition for muscle maintenance and fitness goals. Protein is a crucial nutrient in the whole fitness process. It is not unusual at all to see nutritional plans that recommend a dramatic increase in protein consumption with a fitness program. P90X is a great example of this.
While there are other excellent sources of protein, you may tire of egg whites for breakfast. Vanilla whey protein shakes are a great alternative to the regular protein rich foods. Post workout, a whey protein shake is a great way to refuel and also gives your muscles the nutrition they need for healing and growth.
While some people prefer to use protein like that in a vanilla whey protein shake for their post workout nutrition, the P90X recovery formula offers a perfect balance of carbohydrates and protein for muscle growth and energy replenishments.
Protein supplements can also be used in a meal replacement program for people on the move or those wishing to lose some weight. Simply use chocolate or vanilla whey protein shakes as part of your breakfast or lunch along with a piece of fresh fruit for a lower calorie option with great nutritional value.
Lastly, many vegetarians want to follow the P90X diet and struggle with the protein requirements. Protein supplements are the perfect solution to this. They allow people with limited diets get superior quality protein in a yummy alternative.
When seeking out a high quality whey protein shake product, be certain to check out those we sell here at ExtremeBody Workout.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
June 5, 2009
P90X is more than just a workout system; it is also a unique eating plan. The P90X Nutrition Guide highlights just what you should be eating while on the program. One interesting characteristic about the plan is the amount of protein you will eat while on it. For many people, this much protein can be difficult to adjust to. With P90X protein supplements, the adjustment is made much easier.
Protein is a nutrient necessary for life. It is responsible for so many things within the body; we can’t list them all here. One of the more important functions, however, is the building and repairing of tissue. Why is this important to you? Well, when following the P90X calendar or any other strenuous workout program you are working on building serious muscle. P90X protein supplements are a great way to ensure your body has the optimal fuel for those goals.
When doing a strenuous workout, tiny tears are created in the muscle tissue. These tears are the breeding ground for bigger muscles. See, in an effort to repair those tears, your body mends the muscle, fortifying it in the process. This mending, facilitated by muscle growth, leads to muscle and strength growth.
P90X protein supplements were created to give people participating in the P90X program a few simple ways to get extra protein. Because of the modern adult’s busy schedule, simple solutions like the P90X protein supplements are highly successful and under serious demand.
If you are looking for a supplement for your P90X transformation or want a protein supplement to go with any other workout program, the P90X protein supplements are an excellent choice. Protein bars provide an easy snack or meal option on the go. The P90X Whey Protein Powder is a nutritious and tasty way to get that extra protein in throughout the day.
P90X protein supplements make it easier to get all of your daily protein needs.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
January 13, 2009
Protein shakes can be used by many people with many different fitness goals. They are often used by bodybuilders and those concerned with building muscle. They make a great post workout snack and help to regenerate and heal muscle tissue, leading to muscle growth. People often ask, though, if you can use protein shakes for weight loss.
The answer is, sometimes. Not all protein shakes are created equally and their ingredients vary as much as their labels do. Some are geared towards growth and body builders who are trying to put on weight. These are typically the protein shakes that are high in calories. Others may have lower calories but elevated sugar levels, making them a poor chose of protein shakes for weight loss as well. Some however contain a correct blend of lower calories and fat while maintaining lower sugar content.
Protein shakes for weight loss should be lower in calories and fat. If you plan on using it as a meal replacement you want to be certain that the calories in one serving of your protein shake is less than the calories you typically eat at mealtime. For instance, if your non-diet lunch choice contains 600 calories, you want to be certain that your protein shakes has significantly less.
If you don’t plan on substituting meals but instead just want to supplement with a protein shake for weight loss, think about your total daily caloric allowance. You want to burn more calories than you expend, so adding a high calorie protein shake is not ideal. Perhaps you can substitute your new-found protein shake for that afternoon snack you are used to getting out of the vending machine.
Using protein shakes for weight loss is just like any other “diet” food. You want to be certain the protein shake you choose is right for your goals and that you substitute it for a higher calorie food source. High quality protein shakes are a great source of nutrition and would make an excellent addition to your daily diet regardless of your goals.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
December 7, 2008
Advertisements of high protein shakes fill pages of fitness magazines. They are so prominent in the fitness and particularly the bodybuilding world that you may wonder if they hold magical muscle building ingredients. Well, they sort of do! High quality protein shakes contain an ideal combination of nutrients to build muscle and aid you in your fitness program.
Protein is an important nutrient in the science of building and maintaining muscles. When you are sore after a heavy workout, proteins are going to work, repairing and fortifying the stressed muscles. This healing process promotes muscle growth and is one of the reasons high protein shakes are such a popular post-workout drink.
High protein shakes also help in regulating your diet. If you are trying to keep your metabolism on high by eating frequent small meals throughout the day, protein shakes are a great, convenient meal replacement. They allow you to get optimal nutrition from a quick, no hassle source.
Depending on your choice of protein shake, it could be a good tool in losing fat as well. While research on this topic varies, one thing is true: by substituting a lower calorie, nutrient dense, high protein shake for a higher calorie meal, you can cut your daily caloric intake thereby promoting weight loss.
Of course, not all high protein shakes are created equally and the one you choose should fit the needs you have. For instance, if you are interested in using a high protein shake to aid in weight loss, you will want to make sure the formula you choose is lower in fat and calories. However, if you are looking to build mass, you would want one that’s just the opposite.
Here at ExtremeBodyWorkout.com we sell a variety of nutritional shakes with your fitness needs in mind. If you are looking for a high protein shakes that is excellent for post workout, check out the Peak Recovery Formula. We also carry Meal Replacement Shakes and Whey Protein Powder, a great source of pure high quality protein.
Posted by Elizabeth Renter on
November 18, 2008
Protein shakes are a great addition to any health and fitness plan. Do protein shakes help you lose weight though? Not directly. Protein shakes can, however help your body reach weight loss and muscle building goals in several ways. Depending on your fitness goals and how you utilize the protein shakes, they can assist you in weight loss and uscle building. Although they won’t directly melt off the pounds, they can help turn your body into a fat melting machine.
First, a high quality protein shake can be used as a meal replacement when you are on the go. Being in a hurry is a common condition for the average adult. Skipping meals, however, seldom has the effect you want it to. Rather than helping you lose weight, skipping meals can backfire and send your body into a starvation mode where it holds onto fat just in case it’s needed as an energy source. If you are used to skipping breakfast, for instance, a protein shake can provide a quick and nutritious source of morning energy. So, do protein shakes help you lose weight as breakfast or lunch for the chronic meal skipper? Quite possibly, yes.
On the other extreme from the busy adult who constantly skips meals, is the one who overeats at every meal. Trying to balance portions can be quite difficult when you have developed poor eating habits through years of practice. Perhaps fast food has become your lunch staple. Replacing your less than ideal lunch (or breakfast) with a high quality protein shake and a piece of fruit will fill you up while cutting your daily calories (as well as fat and sodium). Do protein shakes help you lose weight as a meal replacement? Yes, especially for people with less than ideal eating habits at meal time.
Finally, one of the greatest uses of a protein shake is to capitalize on the tissue repairing capabilities of the protein itself. Protein is responsible for mending and repairing tissues in the body. This includes muscle. When we exercise or weight train, tiny tears occur in the muscle tissue. These tiny tears result in muscle soreness the day after. Protein is responsible for mending these tears. When the muscle tissues are repaired they are made stronger and bigger than before. That is the science behind muscle growth. Using a protein shakes, particularly as a recovery drink or post workout snack can speed the recovery process and help you to build stronger muscles. But, do protein shakes help you lose weight as a recovery drink? They do, and let me finish explaining why.
Increased muscle causes an increase metabolic rate. Yes, the more muscle mass you have in your body the more calories you burn, even at rest. This is because muscles require more energy to maintain themselves. They are hungry compared with fat, requiring more calories to get through the day. If you build your muscle mass, you will burn more calories on a daily basis. So, protein shakes are a great addition to your strength training routine, helping to build muscle quickly and subsequently adding to your resting metabolic rate.
Do protein shakes help you lose weight? Indirectly, protein shakes help you lose weight in a variety of ways. It is important when choosing a protein shake that you analyze the nutrition label. If you are using it as a meal replacement you want to make sure it contains enough calories to sustain you as well as vitamins and minerals to replace what you would have normally eaten. Protein shakes for recovery drinks should contain a good balance or high quality protein and carbs for optimum muscle recovery.
Check out our line of protein shakes. We carry the simple bu powerful Whey Protein Powders, Meal Replacement Shakes, and Recovery Drinks. They’re all a great source of protein made with top quality ingredients and the nutrition information is even posted for your review. We want you to make informed decisions regarding what you put in your body and provide only the best in protein shakes and supplements.
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