Skinnier than you want to be? If you’re sick of being known as the “wiry” guy, 
protein supplements can help. This article explains a little bit about how protein supplements work and how to gain and maintain weight using them.
How Do Protein Supplements Work?
Protein consists of amino acids, which are considered the “building blocks of healthy human tissue.” Though there are plenty of protein options available in your daily diet, you may still not be getting enough of these essential amino acids to build muscle the way you want to.
You may simply have a very high metabolism, which forces your body to burn fuel so fast you stay skinny no matter how much you eat.
Protein supplements can offset this by introducing a concentrated amount of essential amino acids several times per day. Combined with a regular weight-lifting and a moderate amount of cardio, it can help you pack on muscle faster and more successfully than eating regular meals alone.
Most protein supplements deliver anywhere between 12 and 30 grams of pure protein without a lot of added carbs.
When Should I Take My Protein Supplements?
This is one of the most common questions asked by men and women looking to gain muscle mass with protein supplements. According to Bodybuilding.com, the best times to take your protein supplements are as follows:
- As Soon As You Wake Up
One of the best times to take a protein supplement is as soon as you get up. You haven’t eaten in 6-8 hours and your body needs the fuel.
- Before Your Workout
During any rigorous weight training program, some muscle catabolism (muscle breakdown) occurs. Taking a protein supplement half an hour before your workout will decrease this breakdown and you’ll get the most benefit from your time.
- Right After Your Workout
When you’re done hitting the weight bench, it’s the perfect time to grab a protein supplement. Refueling with protein and vitamins after a workout is a great way to give your body the nutrition it needs for muscle repair.
- Just Before Bed
You’re about to go 6-8 hours without eating or drinking anything. Taking a protein supplement beforehand can go a long way in maintaining what you’ve already built.
After reading this you might think you’ll need to spend half the day downing protein. Not so. Experiment with your chosen supplement a couple of times a day and test the results. Your metabolism and the amount of time you spend working out will determine your protein needs.
Other Uses for Protein Supplements
Not everybody uses protein supplements to gain muscle mass. There are other uses for protein supplement such as using them for weight gain and weight loss.
Weight Gain
Digestive troubles and autoimmune disease may keep you at a chronic low weight. This may draw false belief that you suffer from some type of eating disorder. Consuming a protein supplement along with regular meals can help you fill out your clothes a little better.
Weight Loss
You can also use protein supplements to lose weight. Trading high-carbohydrate snacks such as cookies or chips for a protein supplement is a great way to stay full between meals.
Different Types of Protein Supplements – Which is Right for You?
Whey – Whey protein is the most common type of protein supplement. It absorbs in 30 minutes or less and is ideal for post-workout consumption.
Pea – For vegan bodybuilders, pea is one of the best choices. It’s also an ideal protein supplement for those following a gluten-free diet. (Always read labels to be sure.)
Rice – Another very easy-to-digest protein, protein supplements made from rice are ideal for those with gastrointestinal problems.
Egg – Protein supplements made from egg are good for sustained-release energy. It’s a great mid-day protein source.
Casein – Casein takes the longest amount of time for the body to break down. Therefore, it is best consumed after a workout or before bedtime for proper muscle repair.
Where Can I Find Protein Supplements?
Whether you’re looking for bars, shakes or liquid, you can find protein supplements at virtually any health food store.
If you’re looking for a wider selection of bodybuilding supplements, check out NutritionFix.com. You’ll find a wide selection of high-quality proteins, as well as fitness accessories, sexual health supplies and natural sleep aids.
Protein supplements are a safe way to pack on muscle, gain a few extra pounds and/or maintain your weight. With so many to choose from, you’ll easily find a protein supplement that suits your dietary and exercise needs so you can look and feel your best!
No one wants to be the wiry skinny guy. But a skinny ripped guy is all good. I reckon natural protein is better but supplements have a place for putting on extra muscle.
Good protein is a valuable asset to anyone trying to get healthy. It’s important to find which ones work best with your body. I have been able to utilize different ones to help gain lean muscle mass while shedding body fat.