Can't stomach protein powders? We've got some alternatives just for you!
Q: I know I should drink a protein shake after I train, but I can't find any protein powders that I can stomach. I have tried almost every brand and almost every flavor. I have to admit that some actually taste very good. But still something about drinking protein powder (be it whey, soy, casein, egg, hemp, goat milk, yes I‘ve tried them all!) does not sit well with me (literally and figuratively). Yes, my friends all think I‘m crazy. But let‘s move forward on that. So, what are some foods I can eat after workouts?
A: Yes, we do recommend that you should go with a protein powder shake right after you train (and even one before) because it‘s the best method to quickly deliver much needed amino acids to your muscles at the most critical time window in the day. But if you can‘t stomach, or can‘t get your hands on a protein shake (for example, you forgot yours at home) you do have some options. The most obvious is a protein bar. Don‘t bother with a low carb bar here. Look for something with at least 20 grams of carbs and up to 40 grams. But try to look for a protein bar that provides close to, if not more than, 20 grams of protein. If you can‘t stomach a protein bar, as admittedly some taste pretty bad, then another easy option is milk. You get 8 grams of protein and 12 grams of carbs per cup. Go with 2-3 cups. That‘s 16-24 grams of protein and 24-36 grams of carbs. And research shows that milk boosts protein synthesis after workouts which means enhanced muscle recovery and better gains in muscle development and strength. Let me know if those don‘t work for you and I can give you even more options.
If you think we only cater to men at muscleandfitness.com than you're missing out on many of Jim's great tips that can help you reach your goals. For example, want to build more defined triceps? - check out Muscle & Fitness Raw! episode #3 - Triceps Ladders. Want to get stronger on pull-ups? Check out Muscle & Fitness Raw! episode #2 - Density Training. Want a flatter stomach? Check out Muscle & Fitness Raw! episode #7 - Speed Up the Crunch. Want to burn off more fat for the summer? Check out Muscle & Fitness Raw! episode #8 - Showtime HIIT Training.
Go to muscleandfitness.com now to see the whole Muscle & Fitness Raw! series.
Click here to submit your questions to the Diet Doctor. Also, share your own success stories.
