Today's Edge:
Recently, CNN came out with a great articlen the pros and cons of protein powers, and I wanted to give my quick take on the article.
The MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAYrom this article is:
“Protein powders are really meant as a supplement. It's still important to consume whole foods, because they provide a variety of nutrients as well as fiber."
With that being said, here are some quick guidelines regarding protein consumption:
- 1-3 palm-sized portionsf protein per meal (chicken, beef, fish, pork, etc.) should cover most of your protein needs.
- ·Unless you work out vigorously > 30 min or do heavy resistance training daily, you may not need to take a protein powder.
- The added sugars and oilsn some protein powders are more than just unnecessary calories – they can cause inflammation and joint soreness. This is why it's important to look for a quality brand if you do use protein powders
- If it comes down to a candy bar or a serving of high quality whey proteinor a snack please choose the whey protein.
- If you do regularly consume a protein powder, try to add fruits and veggiesith it and make it a smoothie.
- If you want muscle gain shoot for .6-1g of protein per pound you weigh. But keep in mind: everyone is different.
Protein powder is not by itself the answer to muscle gain.
Before you spend money on a protein powder as you seek muscle gain become great in the following areas:
- Sleep more
- Get sunlight exposure
- Lift heavy stuff often and with good form
- Eat more healthy calories from real food, especially animal or dairy protein surrounded by plenty of veggies
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Tim DiFrancesco, PT, DPT, ATC, CSCS spent 6 seasons as the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and is the founder of TD Athletes Edge. He is nationally renowned for his evidence-based and scientific approach to fitness, training, nutrition, and recovery for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
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Tim DiFrancesco, PT, DPT spent 6 seasons as the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and is the founder of TD Athletes Edge. He is nationally renowned for his evidence-based and scientific approach to fitness, training, nutrition, and recovery for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.