Best protein Shakes To build muscle

So what do you really need to know about protein powder? After all, as a skinny guy or beginner to the whole bodybuilding scene you simply want to know a few answers.

Is protein powder necessary? Does it really work? How much do I need? What kind should I take? What is the best? And finally, will any of these answers make a difference when it comes to getting jacked and attracting the ladies?

This article is not meant for you if you want to learn the science behind the ion-exchanged, cross-mutated, isotopically labeled protein tracers... blah-blah-blah. In this article, I will strip away all the hype, science and confusion that surrounds protein powder.

By the time you are through this article and put it to memory, you will become the resident protein powder expert and amaze your friends the next time you visit the sport nutrition store. No more 2-hour shopping trips for protein powder because you don't really have a clue what to look for!

Is Protein Powder Really Necessary?

So, although protein supplements are not an absolute requirement for gaining mass, I have yet to meet any person able to get 400 grams of protein per day from cooking food. If your protein intake is greater than 200 grams per day I will suggest a protein powder - it will make your life a lot easier.

In addition, dollar for dollar, protein powders and meal replacement drinks tend to be more cost effective than whole food. Don't get me wrong, though. Protein powders are still supplements in my book. Supplement means an addition to the diet. I emphasize this because the focus of any diet should be food. Whole food is often preferable to powders because it can offer a whole spectrum of nutrients that powders cannot.

Most of your dietary protein should come from meat, fish, poultry and eggs. However getting all your protein from whole food is not always practical or convenient, especially if you have to eat 6 or more times a day to get your required intake. I will stress to you, for optimal muscle gains, that you should limit yourself to a maximum of three per day or 40% of your meals. To some this might sound like going 'overboard' and I would not disagree.

The take home message is that food and supplements are essential to fulfill a optimal nutrient intake including the required level of protein intake particularly if you were not born a master chef! And I assume that over 95% of you reading this do not have a personal maid at home cooking all your meals while you sit around waiting for your next meal.

Do not make the fatal mistake of thinking protein powders can take the place of a solid training and nutrition program.

The take home message is that food and supplements are essential to fulfill a optimal nutrient intake including the required level of protein intake particularly if you were not born a master chef!