Few food products have become as ubiquitous in the areas of health and fitness as the humble protein shake. These beverages have gained worldwide renown for their effectiveness at helping athletes of all levels improve their performance over time and boosting muscle growth for everyone from professional bodybuilders to casual gym members. It’s no wonder that many people have begun to incorporate these drinks into their routines, but some still question the precise effects of using protein shakes for weight management; one common question people ask: Do protein shakes make you gain weight? To hear the answer from the experts at ENU, read on.

What’s in a Protein Shake?

When deciding on a protein shake, keep in mind that protein shake ingredients can vary widely, not only because different brands use different formulas, but also because some shakes are designed to meet specific needs rather than serve as a general protein supplement. The next time you take one of these beverages off the shelf or look one up online, take the time to read the nutrition label and you’ll see the variety that exists under the umbrella of “protein shakes.”

Of course, a primary component in all these beverages is some form of protein supplement, the most common of which is whey protein. Before it was used as a supplement, whey was simply a byproduct of the cheese-making process; today, it is the most popular powdered protein additive in both store-bought and homemade shakes. It also happens to be one of the most effective forms of protein. Your body can quickly and easily put whey to use to repair muscles, synthesize enzymes, or heal wound – three of the primary functions of protein in our bodies.

Whey is also an example of a complete protein, meaning that it contains all the essential amino acids our bodies need but can’t manufacture on their own. Aside from whey, a wide range of protein sources exist, including casein, soy, egg, pea, and brown rice proteins. Along with this key ingredient, most protein shakes also contain a mix of fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals to fuel the body’s various processes.

Protein Shakes and Weight Gain

The best way to think about protein shakes is as a sort of dietary tool. Like any tool, its uses are limited only by the imagination and intent of its user; in other words, protein shakes can be helpful for either weight loss or weight gain, depending on the goals of the person drinking them and the method of their implementation. Some people even use protein shakes for medical nutrition diets.

To better understand this, remember that the key to weight change is based in a simple equation: calories used minus calories consumed gives you the net change in your weight. If you eat more food than your body needs to function, you will gain weight; eat fewer calories than your body requires, and you achieve the opposite effect.

Instead of asking yourself whether protein shakes make you gain weight, try to figure out how many calories your body uses each day – a dietician or nutritionist can help with this – then do your best to judge whether drinking a protein shake would put you over that number of calories for the day. Though this process involves a certain amount of guesswork, it is made much easier by the fact that protein shakes tend to have the number of calories they contain right on the front of their packaging, so it’s often simple to do the math.

Weight Management with Protein Shakes

For those who want to lose weight, protein shakes offer an excellent opportunity to get an important nutrient that can double as a weight loss tool. When consumed, either as food or in a drink, protein gives you a greater feeling of satiation, so you’re more content with less food. Protein is also an important part of muscle growth and repair, making it essential to those who want to gain muscle mass or simply become stronger.

Gaining weight with protein shakes is even easier; just maintain your current diet and add protein shakes after or between meals to boost your daily calorie count. While sugary drinks and snack foods can also help you gain weight, it’s typically in the form of visceral fat, which wits around your belly and can be unhealthy. Consuming protein to gain weight helps ensure that it’s muscle your body is putting on, not fat.

Regardless of whether you want to lose weight or find an effective protein shake for athletes, these beverages can help you achieve your goals. ENU nutrition shakes contain 20 grams of protein from whey and soy isolates, two of the easiest forms of protein for your body to digest and use quickly. Each carton also has complex carbs, heart-healthy fats, and a blend of vitamins and minerals designed to support all the body’s processes while providing the energy you’d get from a small meal.

Protein Shakes Formulated to Support Any Lifestyle

No matter if you want to gain weight or lose it, a well-rounded protein shake can help you hit your target. Nutrition shakes from ENU are formulated to support any lifestyle with a balanced mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals; plus, every shake is lactose-free, gluten-free, Kosher, and non-GMO. For a nutritious shake full of natural, healthy ingredients, try ENU today. Learn more about all our products by visiting us online or calling (855) 266-6733.