Is Taking A Protein Shake Better Than Eating Whole Foods?

Protein shakes are called a ‘supplement’ for a reason – they're designed to support the rest of a healthy, balanced diet. You should always aim to have several proper, nutrient-dense meals every day (whatever works for you, whether that’s 2-3 bigger meals or 5 smaller ones) alongside any supplements or snacks. If you’re super fit and active, this is even more important, your body needs fuel to help you recover well & stay energised.

However, we understand that the hectic nature of modern life makes this more difficult than it sounds! Combine busy, non-stop workdays, lengthy commutes and late night gym sessions or social plans and suddenly eating three healthy meals is a lot more complicated! A protein shake made with a high-quality, all-natural protein powder will give you more energy and nutrients than grabbing a croissant or a pack of chocolate biscuits as you rush from meeting to meeting. Sometimes, you have to be as healthy as circumstance allows you to be!

If you do have time to throw a handful of fruit and maybe even some veggies in a blender with your protein powder to glug on the go, even better! A simple smoothie is one of our favourite energy-boosting alternatives to sitting down and having breakfast if you're running short on time. 

A protein shake also tends to be lower in fat and digests much more quickly, which is why it’s commonly taken to refuel post-workout. Your muscles need protein to repair (in order to grow) after exercise, so grabbing a quick shake is a great way to replenish your muscles as quickly as possible.

Another reason a supplement may be the way to go is if you follow a vegan diet. You may not get enough protein from your meals (unless you eat a lot of tofu, beans and lentils), so a supplement can be helpful. There are twenty amino acids that your body needs to function; eleven of these are made by your body while nine come from food sources and as such are known as ‘essential’ amino acids, e.g. it’s essential for your diet to contain them. 

Vegan diets tend to be low in lysine, which helps with building muscle, injury recovery, production of hormones, enzymes and antibodies. Which is exactly why we make our Vegan Protein with a mixture of hemp & pea; because pea proteins or blends are high in lysine and will make sure you’re getting all the essential amino acids you need!