While it’s great to enjoy a smoothie now and then, there are some unhealthy additions to the diet that can really speed up your weight loss. One of these is high-protein shakes. Can you drink two a day to lose weight? What’s the most you can have?
Protein Power
If you’re looking for a way to lose weight, you’ve probably heard of protein shakes. Often made from isolated soy proteins, these milkshakes contain a significant amount of protein. A 200 gram (7.24 oz) serving of protein powder contains 45 to 50 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fiber.
What makes high-protein shakes so special is that they contain many vitamins and minerals. In addition to protein, a good quality protein shake contains 18% of the daily value for vitamin A (retinol), 45% of the day’s value for vitamin C, 10% of the day’s value for calcium, and over 100% of the day’s daily value for iron. One cup (240 ml) of coconut milk contains 28 grams of protein, 16% of the day’s value for calcium, and 5% of the day’s value for iron.
The Many Different Types Of Protein Shake
Protein shakes come in many different forms, but they all contain two key ingredients: protein powder and milk or water. Several vegan protein powders are available, such as pea, rice, and hemp, that can be substituted for the animal products in a traditional protein shake. Some people have a hard time digesting soy proteins, so they avoid eating beans and tofu, which are often used to make vegan protein powders.
Soy protein is cheap and easy to acquire; however, it’s usually incomplete in nature. That is, it doesn’t contain all of the essential amino acids. To get the full benefits of soy, it must be eaten in combination with other foods. This is why vegans use plant-based protein powders whenever they can to get the nutrients they need.
Protein For Weight Loss
If you’re looking to shed some pounds, here are a few tips on what kind of protein powder to use:
- Choose a vegan protein powder that is high in fiber. The higher the protein content and the higher the fiber content, the more satiating it will be.
- Choose a protein powder that is rich in essential amino acids. Try opting for one that is made from egg whites rather than whole eggs, as the latter tend to be higher in cholesterol. Remember that not all vegan protein powders are alike, and some are more suitable for certain diets than others. For example, peanut butter protein powder is rich in fats that provide quick energy, while rice protein powder helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Avoid using protein powders with added sugar. Although the former is often a bonus in recipes, too much added sugar can do more harm than good. Remember that sweeteners like honey and maple syrup can cause dental problems when consumed in large quantities.
- Drink plenty of water. To improve your body’s ability to eliminate toxins, it’s essential that you stay hydrated. The kidneys play a critical role in this context. To best assist your kidneys in their filtering function, drink at least 16 ounces (0.58 liters) for every hour that you spend outside. This way, you won’t exceed the safe limits for water intake, and your body will thank you for it.
In addition to the above guidelines, it is always a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or a doctor for advice on what diet plan is suitable for your body type and lifestyle. Just remember that everyone’s body is different, and what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another.
On a side note, if you’re looking for vegan dessert recipes that are easy to make, you should definitely check out vegan chef Scott Meyers’ cookbook. It has some fantastic recipes in it that will help you lose weight and feel better overall. You may also like to try his Quick and Easy Vegan Margarita, which is made with fresh fruit and spices rather than salt, and it tastes incredibly good.