Are Protein shakes also for women? Is a question we often get asked. Our answer: YES!
Protein needs
A woman who exercises regularly will need to consume an average of 70 grams of protein per day (70 grams is roughly equivalent to two eggs and two chicken breast or salmon fillets). The problem is that few women have the time to make an omelet in the morning, grill a chicken breast for lunch and prepare a piece of fish after a long day at the office. Protein is not as easy to ingest as carbohydrates.
It is easier to buy a sandwich on the way to work than to fry an egg when you just woke up. Traditional protein sources (such as fish, meat, dairy and beans) are often not immediately consumable when you buy them and require some preparation. If they do become immediately consumable they are often fried or full of unhealthy additives. " says nutrition expert Angela Ginn, R.D., a spokesperson for the Association of Dietitians.
Whey protein
Whey protein in powder form is therefore, in many cases, an easy, quick but most of all tasty and healthy solution. It can easily be put into a breakfast smoothie, or can be mixed with water for a delicious protein shake. I hear you thinking, ''but won't Whey protein make me gain weight or tone up?'' These statements are false.
As long as you do not train like a bodybuilder, you will not see muscle growth from Whey protein. If you include whey protein in your daily diet, it actually helps your muscles recover, which ensures that your metabolism remains high and you will lose weight faster. Also, whey protein is full of amino acids which play an important role in energy, recovery, mood, brain function and fat loss.
Vegetable protein
Plant-based protein shakes are on the rise these days. This is a good alternative if you are lactose intolerant or do not want to consume dairy products for idealistic reasons. Pea and rice protein contain the highest protein content among plant proteins (+/-80%). In general, the taste is slightly less tasty compared to whey and the structure also takes some getting used to but in terms of functionality it is almost inferior. Absorption by the body is slightly slower.
Be careful because many manufacturers add all kinds of artificial and unhealthy substances or refined sugars to make the powders somewhat palatable.
A conscious choice
Make sure you pick the right whey or plant-based protein. Choose one that does not contain refined sugars and other chemical additives that actually break down on your body. In addition, most brands only look to produce as cheaply as possible without regard for the impact on nature and the animals that live in it. Fortunately, however, there are more and more responsible alternatives on the market.
We as Ekopura aim to make a positive change here and create a straighter world through our products. We use mainly organic ingredients produced with respect for people, animals and nature.
If you are interested please take a look at our homepage or read here what we stand for: about Ekopura.