Do I need to take a protein shake when I workout and when should I be taking it?

Supplements have become more and more popular in the fitness industry. These can range from simple multivitamins to "fat burners." The important thing to remember with supplements is that most of them have not been proven to be effective and there is still much needed research on them. On the other hand there are some that will assist with your exercise program. Protein shakes or supplements can help with recovery from a workout and improving muscle synthesis. Remember, however, protein shakes do not just build up muscle magically. You need to be exercising properly and take these supplements at the right time.

Lets look at two possible shakes that someone might take around a workout. First, research has shown that taking amino acids, either pills or shakes, before a workout can improve protein synthesis to help build muscle better. A whey protein shake, should be more useful if taken immediately after a workout (30minutes), to further support muscle building. This combination can be useful for individuals trying to gain or lose weight.

Supplements should be used to supplement a healthy diet. They are not necessary to see results in a workout program but may provide some assistance. The results might be from the supplement taken or through a placebo affect. In either case as long as result are achieve it may be work it.

Supplements are not regulated very well and might not even have what they claim to have in them. Take caution when starting supplements and do not rely on them. It is ok to try them out in cycles but use your own judgement whether they are worth the risk or not.