Most people reach for protein powder to meet their desired protein intake for the day. We take protein through the foods we eat, however, sometimes this is not enough for people who have different fitness goals. In this case, protein powders in the form of smoothies, cookies or baked goods can easily save the day.
When to Take Protein Powder
If you’re wondering when should I drink protein powder, the best times to get your soy, pea, hemp or whey-based supplement is in the morning and after working out. Drinking a protein shake for breakfast is a great way to kickstart your day. Drinking protein right after working out will help speed up muscle growth and recovery.
Make Taking It More Pleasant
In theory, you can add protein powder to every meal. In reality, not all recipes are conducive to supplementation with your fitness proteins. Cooking itself involves a lot of trial and error even if you follow prescribed measurements to the letter. Some stick to meal plans devised by others just to eliminate the chance of making a mistake. Others are ready to embrace the fact that there might be some hick-ups along the way but deem the reward of tailoring a meal worth it. Everyone can learn a thing or two about cooking and it’s up to you to make your favourite snack (or a proper dish for that matter) with gym protein.
Recipes That Can Benefit From a Pinch of Protein
Pizza
Of course, we are talking about healthy pizza, i.e. one made with homemade dough. When you add the mixture for the dough you can add ¼ of a cup with protein powder supplement. And that’s all there is to it. Then, you can make the pizza according to your dietary plan. Some people make them gluten-free, others use all sorts of flour and spices. Just make sure the crust is fully baked. Then you can add any toppings you like.
Pancakes
Very similar to pizza – you can add around 30g of your workout protein powder into the mix. Keep in mind that any flavour that comes with the protein may affect the taste of the end product. So do this with protein supplements you have tasted before, and keep in mind that the vanilla, chocolate or any other taste of the powder you are using might taste different in the pancakes.
Hummus
Your workout protein can be added to a dip too. It doesn’t have to be a meal. And similar to pancakes, the flavour will be affected here too. So common wisdom is to make your hummus with unflavored protein powder, otherwise it would be really hard to get something that will taste like a regular hummus recipe at the end. Add 1-2 scoops of protein powder (30-60g) in the mix.
Soups
You can add your protein shake supplement to broths and soups too. More protein powder equals greater thickness. So you can match the consistency of your soup by adding more powder or by adding more liquid according to your preference. Just make sure you use unflavored protein powder here too. Have a whisk ready because the powder will not blend well without it and your broth will have clumps.
Protein Bars
Are you into making your own energy bars? Well, you can add up to 3 scoops of chocolate whey protein powder to your favourite nuts and seeds mixture. Or any other flavour you prefer, of course. The powder is added together with the cereal and oats in the mix. The rest of the steps remain the same.
Cake and Sweats
Speaking of chocolate flavoured protein shake products, let’s not forget tasty and healthy desserts like cakes. You can also add the powder to any other similar recipe including your homemade ice cream. If you are baking, add 1 scoop of protein powder per 1/4 tsp baking powder in the recipe.
As you can see, these supplements can be added to many different types of meals in your diet. And this is great news for those who prefer some rough texture in their food. When you grow tired from shakes and liquid meals, you can experiment and add some powder in your regular cooking. If you’re not that into it, though, do note that you don’t have to be a Michelin chef to add protein supplement. You can also add it to your coffee, or other drinks that take no time to prepare.
Whatever your preference, don’t lose the end goal from sight. Do what it takes to recover from the physical strain your body just endured during your workout session. Some need a cold shower, others need a power nap, or a good massage and some head straight into their daily responsibilities. You can take your protein powder at your pace as long as you deem it useful for attaining your goals.
