The 5 Most Common Protein Shake Mistakes Men Make

Protein shakes are one of the best tools you can have in your arsenal when it comes to reducing recovering time, and building incredible muscle fast. However, it isn’t enough to simply guzzle down protein at every available opportunity. If you don’t use your shakes with the right attention and consideration, then you’ll end up doing more damage than good to your physique and health.

A study that the University of Montreal conducted into protein diets and muscle building discovered that an incredible three in every four athletes generally struggle to improve their recovery times or performance levels through the assistance of supplements. The reason for this isn’t that supplements can’t help – but that even the professionals aren’t sure how to use them properly.

The following are some of the most common shake mistakes men make, and some tips on how to find a solution.

Mistake 1: Replacing Meals with Shakes

Too many men are fooled by the idea that all protein is created equal. Swapping your regular protein-packed meals with a protein shake isn’t enough to give you the nutritional support you need for great results. Protein shakes can be fantastic for your workout routine, but they’re not likely to give you the same levels of nutrients as a proper meal, or make sure you feel full and satisfied. What’s more, a full-course means your body needs to work harder, and burn more calories in breaking the food down for digestive.

If a busy day tempts you to replace a meal with a shake, then try to avoid the problem altogether by preparing your lunch the night before. Try to make something that’s full of protein rich foods like beef, turkey, fish, and chicken.

Mistake 2: Failing to See the Alternatives

After buying a huge tub of protein powder to tide you over for a portion of your workout cycle, you might think that the only options you have is to either mix it with water, or milk. However, protein powder can actually be used in a number of different ways to help you build muscle.

For instance, you can add it to a number of your meals to ensure you get the nutrients you need, as well as the protein you want. For example, adding an extra scoop of protein powder your pancakes on the morning before you hit the gym, or your breakfast oatmeal could be enough to prevent you from over-eating throughout the day.

Mistake 3: You have Bad Timing

So when should you be enjoying your protein shake? Before your workout? During the exercise? A number of men have grown to believe that as long as they get protein into their system at some point, they’ll be able to reap the benefits. However, the truth is that when it comes to working out and using protein supplements – figuring out when to use them is just as important as any other aspect of your routine.

Some experts suggest that best time to have your protein shake is within the first hour following your workout. Because your muscles are more receptive during this time, they will be able to take in the fuel that they need to repair and recover more efficiently – leading to more effective growth.

You can have this shake while you work. You can be sitting at your desk and drinking the shake. No problem there. This is if you have your workouts in the morning or at lunch time. If you work out in the evening, you can have the shake after you work out, while you are driving, or when you get home to watch some Transformers, Gold Rush, The Deadliest Catch, 24, Sportscenter, Fox News, and so on.

It should not take you too long to prepare. This is not the first time around the block for you. You can buy all the ingredients when you go shopping and that should last you for a week or even a few weeks. You can even keep the ingredients to the protein shake in your desk drawer at work if need be.

Mistake 4: You’re Making Things too Complicated

Some people think that in order for a shake to be effective – they need to jam it full of a variety of different ingredients. However, if you’re stuffing your shake full of almond butter, dried fruit, milk, and whatever else, you may be pushing up the calorie count without actually getting any extra benefit.

The best thing you can do is keep your protein shake simple, or choose a couple of low-sugar ingredients that will focus on allowing you to bulk up your muscles, without adding extra mass to your stomach in the meantime.

Mistake 5: Too Much of a Good Thing

Just because protein shakes can be a sagacious way to boost your workout routine doesn’t mean you should have too many of them. If your cupboards are full of powder tubs, then you could be increasing your chances of a wider waistline, rather than bigger muscles. You only need a maximum of 2 grams of protein per kilo of your bodyweight each day to bulk up. That is it!