Protein supplements are a term that is often heard in the fitness, especially, in the gym industry. However, not all of us are aware of everything that protein supplements stand for and exactly what they are. Without knowing the several factors attached to this, jumping into consuming them is not the recommended method. Let’s take a look at the various factors you should know about protein supplements.
Not Miracle Drinks:
You will not miraculously lose weight or shred fat if you consume protein supplements. Protein supplements are actual substitutes of protein that help in overall protein consumption. You will still need to be in a calorie deficit to lose weight. There is a myth among individuals who have not done their research that this drink can miraculously help you lose weight, THEY ARE WRONG.
Not Meal Replacements:
Protein supplements are not meal replacements. They are replacements for a certain amount of protein of your diet. Consuming one or two scoops of protein powder per day will give you protein and may fill you up for that time, however, it is definitely not a meal replacement shake. A meal replacement shake gives you all three macros: fat, carbohydrates, and protein.
Protein Supplement Types:
These products come in the form of powder, bars, cookies, etc. You need to know which one you would like to consume and then consume it according to your macros. Protein powders can be divided into further categories: whey, mass gainers, vegan, etc. All of these shakes work towards giving you protein but some have more calories than other and the type you choose depends on your diet and goals.
Not A Steroid:
A very common misconception that prevails within half-knowledged individuals is that protein supplements are steroids. This cannot be further from the truth. Protein supplements are legal products that have been authorized and verified by several boards globally. It would not be freely available to buy in the market if it was not approved.
How Much Protein Supplement To Consume?
This ultimately depends on your diet. The primary factor to look out for is that these will not work if you do not have a proper diet to assist it. Your body cannot survive on protein alone. Yo need to give it fat and carbs. Therefore, whether you consume one scoop or two or three, it will only help you when you finally take it as part of a diet and not make it the entire diet.
When To Start Consuming Protein Supplements?
If you are a beginner at the gym, then start with cleaning your diet first. Get into the habit of eating healthy, eating natural foods, stop eating junk. Once you have gotten habituated to your new diet, you can begin incorporating them in your diet. Take it one scoop at a time. Adjust your macros or your diet accordingly.
The above piece of information is everything you need to know about protein supplements to start deciding on whether you want to consume it or not. The final piece of information to know is: Protein supplements are not necessary to build muscles or lose weight. It is simply a product that helps but the same effect can be achieved via whole foods.