Simple answer – NO. You will not bulk simply by consuming a protein shake. Protein makes up 20% of your body. Proteins are essential for healing wounds and repairing tissues, especially in the muscles, bones, skin and hair.[1] When your an athlete, you require more protein to keep up with the demands you’re putting on your body.
Quick Facts About Protein
Protein plays a crucial role in nearly all biological processes. Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins. A large number of cells, muscles & other tissues are made up of amino acids. Protein has influence on the function of organs, glands, tendons and arteries. Along with fat & carbohydrates, protein is a macronutrient meaning the body needs relatively large amounts of it. Unlike fat & carbohydrates though, the body does not store protein and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply.[2] Worse case scenario, if the body is not being supplied with enough protein, it will start breaking down the muscular tissues to meet/fulfill the body’s demands. Protein is also critically important for maintaining lean body mass during increased physical activity. Studies have shown that protein supplementation is the determining factor in promoting fat burning during exercise while promoting protein synthesis.[3] Research has also shown that increased protein intake enhances satiety and supports decreased food intake during subsequent meals.[4] As an athlete, you’re constantly breaking down the muscular tissue already, which makes it imperative for you to get enough protein on a daily basis in order for these tissues to fully recover while meeting demands of the body.
Answer These Questions
- Do you eat breakfast every day? If you do, are you eating a protein-dense with good fats containing meal?
- Do you eat a healthy (protein, complex carbs, good fat) snack after school before practices?
- During tournaments, do you eat healthy, homemade meals for refueling?
- Do you eat a healthy, nutritious meal after workouts/practice/games?
- Do you eat a lot of carbohydrates? (Breads, pastas, potatoes, baked goods, lots of fruits, etc)
If you answered no to any of questions 1-4 and/or answered yes to question 5, you could definitely benefit from supplementing with protein. My favorite is our PureShock Elite or PureShock Vegan. Be sure to stay tuned in for more about protein, like is it best to supplement before or after workouts, are all proteins created equally, etc.
References:
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12070399
- http://www.webmd.com/men/features/benefits-protein
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20847729
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8862477