When Is the Best Time to Take Whey Protein? | Exercise.com Learn: Your Fitness Business Resource

When Is the Best Time to Take Whey Protein?

Tyler Spraul is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-certified strength and conditioning specialist. He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life. He has been featured in Shape, Healthline, HuffPost, Women's...

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UPDATED: Aug 25, 2020

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  • Whey protein supplements are commonly used by many people.
  • The best time to take whey protein is dependent on your fitness and health goals.
  • Many people take whey protein supplements after exercise. Research has shown that taking whey protein in a timely manner after exercise can be optimal.

As you know, supplements are only beneficial if you use them properly.

That’s why you need to know the best time to take whey protein.

Both manufacturers and bodybuilders alike recommend that you take whey protein both before and after exercise.

Do you lift weights for personal glory, contests, or to simply look better than the person standing next to you?

You want to get the maximum advantage from your workout sessions.

Whey protein could be a way for you to get the most out of those sessions.

As always, exercise is an important component of your overall fitness and health goals. If you are looking for an exercise routine, look no further. Go PRO today for access to certified personal trainers, workout plans, and more.

What Is Whey Protein?

You may remember Little Miss Muffet eating her curds and whey. After hearing this poem many children are left to wonder exactly what whey is and why would anyone eat it!

Whey is actually a milk product left over after cheese is made. It is sometimes called milk serum.

Foods containing protein are considered vital for most weight lifters. Made of amino acids, protein is easily obtained in a well-balanced diet by eating red meats, fish and other animal products.

Protein is the chief component of muscle tissue. However, there are no raw foods you can purchase that provide whey protein. Whey protein can only be found in products it has been added to, like protein bars and protein shakes.

At times when you want to get protein without sitting down to a meal, protein supplements are a convenient solution.

Whey protein supplements are favored by bodybuilders. This is because whey protein is effortlessly digested by your body. Nevertheless, eating a well-balanced diet, complete with all the vitamins and nutrients your body needs to perform at its peak, is also smart.

If you are on a restricted diet that reduces your protein intake, supplementing with whey protein can be beneficial. This will ensure you get more of the nutrition your body requires.

On the store shelves, you will find whey protein products classified as either whey protein isolate or whey protein concentrate. These items vary in how much whey protein, sugar, and calories they have.

It is important to read each product label so you can choose the one that is best for you. The most common form of whey protein supplements is powders which can be mixed as a shake.

The pricing depends on the brand and the amount of servings per container. It can range anywhere between $10 and $80 for one jar.

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How Does Whey Protein Help Bodybuilders?

Since muscles are made primarily of protein, taking in additional protein helps to build more muscle. This is not just important for weight lifting but also for strength when performing everyday tasks.

Whey protein can also help you see results sooner and help with weight loss. In order to achieve muscle definition, you must first lose fat!

Research has proven that eating more protein makes you feel full quicker. This means you not only eat less and lose weight, but you also gain muscle in the process.

Whey protein is among the most popular supplements for serious bodybuilders but it can also be beneficial to other athletes.

When Is the Best Time to Take Whey Protein?

Whey protein is commonly taken after exercise. and according to the International Society of Sports Nutrition, consuming protein any time up to two hours after your workout can be ideal for recovery and building muscle mass.

However, the best time to take whey protein is dependent on your individual health and fitness needs. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, or preserve muscle, there may be different times to taking whey protein that may be optimal for your needs.

Are There Any Side Effects from Taking Whey Protein?

Whey protein may cause side effects such as bloating and cramping for some, especially in high doses. People who are lactose intolerant may not wish to use whey protein because it could have the same effects as other dairy products. As with taking any supplement, if you have major health issues, you should consult your physician first.

And remember to keep in mind that supplementation of any kind is not enough for your overall health and fitness needs. Exercise is important. Go PRO today for access to certified personal trainers, workout plans, goal trackers, and more!

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