Are protein shakes good for weight loss?

What are protein shakes?

Protein shakes are drinks that are high in protein, so they're used as a means of introducing more protein into your diet. The exact amount of protein we need depends on the individual (with factors including age, activity level and muscle mass affecting your required amount).

Protein shakes are made using powdered protein. The protein they contain typically comes from eggs or milk but can also come from soybeans or rice.

Many people consume protein drinks after a workout. Historically, protein drinks were favoured by 'bodybuilders' and those who wanted to gain muscle growth. However, many fitness fanatics and health-conscious people have since embraced these products as part of their diet.

Types of protein powders include:

• Soy protein.

• Whey protein.

• Pea protein.

• Casein.

• Rice protein.

In some retailers you can buy fun flavours of protein powder, including Maltesers, Drumstick lollipops, and M&Ms.

How much protein is needed for weight loss?

It is thought that protein should account for around 30% of your calorific intake per day to be optimal for weight loss. This aids with boosting your metabolism, with research suggesting that a higher protein rate allows you to burn more calories while also having a lower appetite.

Based on this suggestion, if 25-30% of your total daily calories derive from protein, this can increase your metabolic rate by up to 80-100 calories per day, in comparison with diets lower in protein.

How are protein shakes good for weight loss?

Decreasing hunger

One of the main ways protein shakes aid with weight loss is by reducing hunger and appetite, as protein generally keeps you feeling satisfied for longer.

The idea that protein shakes make you feel full has been supported by studies, with one form of research finding that consuming more protein can result in less hunger throughout the day.

Another study found a connection between a higher protein intake and increased fullness during the day. However, researchers add that other factors can contribute to fullness, such as weight, eating habits, and other health conditions.

Research into the impact of protein shakes on appetite specifically is limited. However, one small study did find that protein drinks can reduce appetite in people diagnosed with obesity.

While the evidence to suggest protein reduces appetite (which causes people to eat less, consequently, losing weight) does exist, it remains to be seen just how strong this connection is.

Maintaining and adding muscle can help metabolism

Ravi Davda is a qualified personal trainer, and he explains how, the more muscle you have, the higher your metabolism tends to be. This means you burn more calories at rest and while exercising.

Combining protein shakes with specific exercises can be particularly beneficial in gaining muscle. For instance, drinking protein shakes alongside resistance training can both promote muscle growth and enhance your physical performance.

Protein shakes help to build muscle by providing your body with essential amino acids that are easily absorbed. Research has suggested that an increase in amino acid levels in the bloodstream can trigger a more significant response for lean muscle growth.

If you become bored with protein shakes, you can incorporate protein powder into your meals. Research from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that adding a scoop of protein powder into your breakfast porridge or pancakes can make you less likely to overeat during the day.

Are protein shakes bad for you?

"Protein is an essential macronutrient and unless you're having lots of scoops a day, I don't see any harm in protein shakes. However, if and where possible, I'd advise getting it from other protein sources too, such as meat, fish, soy, nuts, eggs, and more, to get essential vitamins and minerals as well," explains Davda.

You should also bear in mind any allergies or intolerances you may have. For example, if you're lactose intolerant and you consume whey protein, you may experience side effects.

Additionally, you should be careful not to become reliant on protein shakes or use them as meal replacements. Unfortunately, people can form unhealthy relationships with protein shakes, alongside exercise addictions. This can lead to them developing eating disorders.

In recent years, experts have warned that body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and pervasive gender stereotypes (where a person believes they are not embodying masculinity as modern culture suggests they should) can contribute to matters such as protein shake addictions. There is evidence suggesting that, in the long term, consuming too much protein can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis and can also cause liver and kidney issues.

When to drink protein shakes for weight loss

"Drink protein shakes when you need them - for example, if you can't get access to enough protein. But try to get protein from whole foods too," advises Davda.

"If you're hoping for weight loss, it may be ideal to have protein shakes with water instead of milk, as this has fewer calories. But again, this depends on what else you eat during the day."

Ultimately, it's important to use protein shakes that are right for your body. Avoid following the latest fitness trend or following other people's regimes as this does not take into consideration your own activity levels and overall health.

Are there any specific shakes that might aid with weight loss?

Davda recommends avoiding protein shakes that have higher levels of carbohydrates or sugars if you are consuming them for weight loss purposes.

"Generally, I'd recommend whey protein, because it's usually the cheapest and easiest form of protein to use. If you're lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet, you should choose a plant-based protein alternative," he says.

Other ways to lose weight, besides drinking protein shakes

Protein shakes alone shouldn't be relied on for weight loss. Instead, you should also incorporate regular exercise and a balanced diet into your life. This helps to ensure weight loss is done safely and that the results are sustainable.

Davda adds that learning how to cook and educating yourself on the different food groups and what your body needs is also important. This doesn't have to be a daunting process or involve a trip to a dietician. There are now plenty of accessible food blogs run by experts, as well as cookbooks, which offer tips and talk you through meal preparation.

"Exercise is key, but so is eating whole foods. Once you know how to cook, you have more knowledge of what goes into your food. Personally, I tried to lose weight many times but only when I extended my knowledge around food and nutrients did I find success."

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Important reminders for using protein shakes

• Protein shakes do not replace meals - shakes should be used in combination with a balanced diet and exercise.

• You should consume them at the right time - within an hour after your workout tends to be best.

• Be aware of intolerances - a lot of protein powders contain dairy, soy, corn starch, and additives you may be unfamiliar with, so look at the list of ingredients first.

• Check sell-by dates - protein powders expire too, and their muscle-building potential diminishes after they are out of date so they won't be as effective.