Question:
I am concerned about gaining weight from using protein powder. Is this possible? Also, can you have a smoothie with protein powder every day? I was just wondering if you could recommend a protein powder that is good for women.
Answer:
Great question! There are many different points of view on this, and really it comes down to a personal decision, and whether it suits your lifestyle or not. Weight gain can come from eating too many calories, and consuming foods that have a negative effect on your metabolism, therefore yes, essentially you could gain weight by consuming protein powder in your shakes if they’re not the right brands, and you’re already eating too many calories for your metabolic needs. However, if you are purchasing good quality protein powder, and you’re adding them appropriately in conjunction with all the other food you’re eating, they can be a great addition to your healthy eating habits.
Good quality brands are important, and the number one thing to look for is how it is sweetened and flavoured. You have to make sure that it is not sweetened with artificial sweeteners like aspartame as they are metabolism sabotagers! You also want to make sure that it has 15-25 grams of protein, and ranges between 90-125 calories per serving.
Protein powder in shakes can actually help you LOSE weight and build muscle if taken appropriately, and many women are not hitting the mark in their protein consumption.
When you build muscle by working out and eating enough protein, you actually increase your metabolism – which in turn, helps you lose weight. Not only do the protein shakes help with increasing your protein consumption, but they also help to increase your calories throughout the day if you’re not eating enough. We all know now that not eating enough slows your metabolism, so if you’re one of those people that are too busy to eat, aren’t hungry, and don’t have a desire to cook – protein shakes actually help to increase your calories throughout the day, which in turn helps you increase your metabolism.
In regards to consuming protein powder every day, if you’re eating right, it is not necessary. Like mentioned above, if you’re forgetful or lazy with eating throughout the day, protein shakes could be beneficial for you to have every day. They’re fast, easy, full of nutrients, and effective. However, real food is always best, so if you have time, I would advise you sit down and enjoy some food with a knife and fork on most days instead.
Don’t forget you can always substitute Goat’s yogurt, natural nut butters, or egg whites as healthy alternatives to protein powders in your shakes.
For those that want to try or stick to protein powders though, my favourite brand is Genuine Health, and although their Proteins+ is very tasty, I’m a huge fan of the Vega kind as well. They are both sweetened with stevia and come in chocolate and vanilla flavours. I love having these as my post-workout meal, or as a hearty breakfast in the morning. This is currently my favourite kind:
Pumpkin Pie Shake
- 1 scoop of Genuine’s Health Vega chocolate or vanilla protein
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup frozen mango or banana
- 1tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1tsp instant coffee (optional)
Enjoy that one!
Showing you the difference between liking and loving your body,
Ashley Dale Roy
