Protein is essential for our bodies to function properly. It helps with cell growth and repair, maintains our muscles, and provides us with energy. So it’s no surprise that we need to ensure we’re getting enough of it daily.
Many people who work out regularly or are trying to build muscle often wonder when the best time is to have protein. While there is some debate on the subject, most experts agree that there are certain times of day when your body is better able to utilize protein for muscle growth. Here’s a look at the best times to have protein during the day.
3 Possible Times To Have Protein Safely:
You can consider the following time of the day to have your protein:
1. Having Protein in the Morning
The morning is one of the best times to have protein. After not having eaten for several hours overnight, your body is in a “fasting” state and is breaking down muscle tissue for energy. Having protein in the morning helps to prevent this muscle breakdown and can even help to build new muscle. 20-30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up is a good goal to aim for.
2. Before and After Your Workout:
Another good time to have protein is before and after your workout. Eating protein before working out helps to give you energy and can improve your performance. Eating it afterward helps your muscles recover from the workout and can help promote muscle growth. 20-30 grams of protein within 30 minutes before or after working out is a good goal to aim for.
One potential side effect may be that you feel bloating or experience an upset stomach if you eat protein immediately before working out. If this happens, try having it a little earlier before your workout or wait until afterward.
3. Before Bed:
Lastly, eating protein before bed can also be beneficial. Although you won’t be able to utilize all of the amino acids from the protein for muscle growth since you’ll be sleeping, it will help prevent muscle breakdown overnight. 20-30 grams of protein 30-60 minutes before bedtime is a good goal to aim for.
A potential side-effect of having protein before bed is that you may have trouble sleeping since your body will be working to digest the food. If this happens, try having your protein a little earlier in the evening or reduce the amount you’re eating.
Remember natural pre-workout protein foods like fruits, vegetables, and yogurt also help with packing in the nutrients. Before going to a protein shop, you should focus on natural foods like fruits, etc.
To conclude, if you’re looking to build muscle, there are certain times of the day when your body is better able to utilize protein for this purpose. The morning, before and after your workout, and before bed are all great times to have some additional protein. 20-30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up, before or after working out, and 30-60 minutes before bedtime are all good goals to aim for. Experiment with different times and see what works best for you!
Originally posted 2022-10-26 15:25:00.
