Protein shakes are a common strategy for weight loss, but they may not always be the best choice for everybody. Although protein is vital for many bodily functions and can help keep you feeling satisfied and full for longer than diets high in carbs or fats, there are some things to consider before eating it.
Below, you will find helpful information on protein shakes for weight management, their types and benefits.
Types of protein powder
Protein powder is available in many forms, including animal and plant-based varieties. The absorption of some protein powders is quick, while other protein powders are formulated to release their protein slowly.
Whey: This protein powder is derived from milk and contains essential and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that have been demonstrated to help build and preserve muscle. Most whey protein powders contain 11% to 15% protein.
Whey concentrate: This is another form of whey protein powder that is more protein-rich by weight than regular whey. The protein content ranges from 25% to 89%.
Whey isolate: Whey isolate is the highest concentration of protein powder and can contain 90 per cent or more protein. These products are generally more expensive.
Casein: Casein is a milk protein that is digested slowly. This protein powder provides a steady flow of amino acids to help you build and repair muscles. It is a popular choice for evening or night time protein intake to support muscle repair throughout the night.
Soy: It is a lactose-free, vegan protein powder. Among plant-based proteins, soybeans provide all the essential amino acids, including the branched-chain amino acids that are especially beneficial to humans.
Pea: Protein powder derived from peas is just as effective as protein powder derived from dairy. The powder is hypoallergenic and easy to digest.
The benefits of protein shakes for weight loss
Protein shakes such as LA Muscle's Slim Whey Protein are quick and easy to make, but they can also help you achieve weight loss goals. Here are a few benefits of protein shakes for weight loss.
They satisfy the appetite and promote fullness
A protein-rich diet can keep you full longer and reduce your appetite because it is very satiating. Protein shakes may help you stay fuller longer than meals that do not contain protein.
Feeling full can help you consume fewer calories. Furthermore, it may reduce your appetite for unhealthy snacks between meals.
Metabolism and Muscle Building
Protein promotes muscle growth and repair. Additionally, it prevents muscle loss, which may occur while on a weight loss diet. Increasing your protein intake may also boost your metabolism. In part, this is due to the muscle being metabolically active.
Protein requires more energy to digest than carbohydrates or fats, which means processing it burns more calories. Although it may seem insignificant in the metabolism and calorie balance, it contributes to the total number of calories you burn.
Calorie Reduction
Consuming protein may reduce overall caloric intake as it is filling. By adding protein shakes such as Slim Whey Protein to your diet, you can reduce your overall calorie intake throughout the day, especially when choosing calorie-balanced shakes. This can often lead to weight loss.