Can I drink a protein shake with my meal? or should I wait a few hours after the protein shake?
Hey Maritza,
It really depends on your goals. If you are trying to build muscle and are participating in resistance strength training you need more protein for recovery then recommended on food labels. I think a protein shake post-workout with some carbs is ideal. Either it is already included in the shake or you can consume an outside source such a banana or granola bar. These foods will spike your insulin levels and force the protein into your muscle.
Around an hour after your exercise and your shake you should have a meal centered around complex carbs (whole wheat pasta/breads, beans), protein(meats) and low in saturated fats.
The reason we consume this an hour after your protein shake is because if you consume more than about 30g of protein at one time the excess amount will be wasted. It will either be stored as fat or urinated out.
Chris Baietto, B.S., CSCS, ACE