Everyone sings the praises of protein – and it's no wonder. Protein is an important component of a healthy diet and should be a part of every meal you eat. Protein helps build and repair tissue throughout the body and can help with muscle recovery.
Protein shakes and smoothies, then, seem to offer an easy way to get your nutrition on the go, lose weight, and recharge your body before or after a workout. It doesn't hurt that these drinks are usually tasty, quick, and packed with nutrients your body needs.
But protein shakes often fall short of their promise.
The biggest drawback is how high-calorie they tend to be. To improve taste – and sales – these shakes are often packed with hidden indulgences that quickly add up and push you over your calorie intake goals. This is especially true when you purchase prepared, ready-to-drink shakes. As a liquid, shakes and smoothies are also digested quickly, so is less likely to keep you satisfied for very long.
To lower the calorie count in your next protein shake, try this:
· Make it at home, where you can control the ingredients
· Use water instead of dairy for the liquid base
· Use 1/2 scoop of protein powder (instead of a full scoop)
· If using fruit, use less – say, half a banana or just a handful of strawberries
· Use PB2 (a low-calorie, low-fat powdered peanut butter alternative) instead of nut butters
You have numerous choices when it comes to protein shakes and smoothies. Your best bet is to whip one up at home, using a protein powder that doesn't include a long list of ingredients – and, importantly, lists a type of protein as its first ingredient. And avoid those with artificial sweeteners.
Would you like more dietary tips like these? Contact registered dietitian Jamie Schlifstein in Boca Raton, Florida, by calling (561) 558-7786.