PROTEIN FOR BEGINNERS

The Benefits of Protein Shakes

Protein, carbohydrates and fat are macronutrients, which means they are required by the body in large amounts. There are lots of different types of protein molecules which are made of 20 different amino acids. These proteins make up every cell in the body and are important building blocks of our hair, nails, bones, hormones, skin, blood and muscles. Unlike carbohydrates and fat (unfortunately), the body cannot store protein which is why we need to ensure that we have an adequate and constant supply from the foods we eat to maintain a healthy functioning body.

Where can you find protein?
Foods rich in protein predominantly come from animal products such as meat, fish and dairy. But there are also high amounts of protein in plant based sources such as legumes, beans and nuts.

Why use a protein shake?
Shakes are a great way to ensure you are getting enough protein in your diet. They are effective as a quick way to start the repair process immediately after a workout. For busy people on the go, they also serve as a convenient way to combat hunger and stay energised, especially when you do not have the time to meal prep. Mums are a great example of people who may benefit from a shake as they are usually multitasking, doing 101 different jobs and don't have to to feed themselves! What kind of protein in protein shakes do you need?
Whey protein comes from cows milk and has been shown to be the most effective form of protein for muscle synthesis, this is what we use in The Slender Blend and our Whey Protein Concentrate shakes. Whey protein has a complete amino acid profile, which means that it contains all 9 essential amino acids that we need to take in from the food we eat. Other types of protein include plant-based sources such as pea, hemp and soy. These types of protein are great if someone is vegan or wants to reduce their dairy intake, however not every plant based source contains all 9 essential amino acids required by the body, which is why our Vegan Blend contains a mixture of pea, quinoa and hemp protein powder to provide a full amino acid profile.

When to use protein shakes?
Protein shakes are predominantly used before or after exercise to help aid muscle recovery. When you workout tiny tears are created in the muscle tissue (which is normal, and is how your body gets stronger), protein stimulates muscle synthesis allowing muscle tissue to recover faster and stronger. Our Whey Protein Concentrate contains 30g protein and is low in carbohydrates which makes it the perfect high-protein low-calorie shake to support training.

Protein shakes are also used to aid weight loss. By replacing a meal with a specially designed meal replacement shake alongside a balanced diet you can reduce overall daily calorie intake and stay feeling fuller for longer.

Protein shakes also serve as a snack throughout the day. The Slender Blend flavours can double up as a tasty low calorie treat if you are feeling peckish between meals. They are also a great way of increasing protein intake throughout the day.

Protein for Weight Loss
Protein shakes such as The Slender Blend meal replacement are great for weight loss as they help you to stay fuller for longer because protein is the more satiating macronutrient. The shake is typically lower in calories than meals containing both fat and carbohydrate sources, this helps in creating a calorie deficit to aid weight loss.
Protein is also harder to break down in the body than carbohydrates and fat, which means that you actually use more calories in the process of breaking protein down for energy than you would for other fuel sources.

The Slender Blend has been designed with 26 vitamins and minerals to ensure that you don't lack in any micro nutrients as a result of replacing meals. It also contains digestive enzymes plus pre and probiotics to help maintain a healthy gut and happy tummy!

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