Should I Drink My Protein Shake Before or After the Gym?

Overview

Protein is not easily digested.

When you're working out, your body pulls blood to your muscles. If you drink a protein shake before working out, your body will need to pull blood back to your digestive system in order to break down the complex nutrients. This robs your muscles of the energy they need, and you'll feel sluggish and inefficient as a result.

Protein refuels your hard-working muscles.

In order to make progress, the resources that were used during a workout must be replaced. Protein provides the building blocks for your body to use to rebuild your muscle and carbohydrates provide the fuel for the next workout. The optimal time to refuel your body is within 15 to 30 minutes of a workout's end.

Bottom Line

After exercising you should provide the body with a quality protein source right after rehydrating. A liquid source is ideal because it can be processed and utilized by the body quicker.

References

• Gain Muscle Weight Fast: Pre- and Post- Workout Nutrition
• Intense Workout: Post Workout Meal Nutrition - what to eat after a workout
• Bodybuilding : Diet and Timing