Should you eat before or after taking whey protein?
Our bodies metabolize protein differently when we're simultaneously eating a meal. The question is: how does that change things? Some sources claim that you should eat before taking whey protein, while others recommend waiting until after you've eaten to get the full benefits of whey. What gives?
In this case, it's important to note the distinction between "whey protein powder" and "whey protein concentrate." Whey concentrate is a product that has already been separated from its other components (i.e., fat), and is therefore more likely to make your stomach feel upset when you drink it alongside food—specifically, it can cause gastrointestinal distress for some people. Whey protein powder, on the other hand, has not been separated from its other components, so it's more likely to be absorbed into your body without causing any discomfort at all.
When taken with a meal, whey isolate (the type of protein people typically take as a supplement) directly breaks down into amino acids and enters your bloodstream more quickly than if you were taking it on an empty stomach. That means you can potentially absorb more amino acids overall if you have just eaten than if you had taken it on an empty stomach or if you waited until later in the day to consume it.
Should you take whey protein before or after a workout? That depends on what you're using it for and your own personal needs. If you're using whey protein to help build muscle, taking it before a workout is the best time to do so. Whey protein digests quickly, which means that it will reach your muscles faster if you take it before working out than if you wait until afterwards. When you work out, your body needs essential amino acids to aid in muscle repair. Whey protein has these essential amino acids and will send them straight to your muscles when you take it before exercising. In addition, eating food before working out can also give you the energy needed to get through the entire workout. When you need help from a nutritionist and body trainer, contact Ike Cella. He can help you.
Ike Cella Nutrition Coaching
7891 S 6100 W
West Jordan, UT 84081
(801) 643-3878
