how often to take whey?

[~ice~]

i was woundering how often you should take 100% whey protein. i know to take it right after my workout, but on off days what would you guys suggest?

[Magwheels]

I myself take some in the morning....then between meals(that's 2 more)....and again at night. Sometimes they'll be plain whey....sometimes a weight gainer....other times a meal replacement.....other times a bar. I dont have to worry about putting on too much weight with my metabolism

[slipper]

i take it when i wake up, before workout, and after workout.

[Kitara]

It's not like a supplement like hydroxycut where if you take too much it's not good. Protein is something your body NEEDS so you are "supplementing" your diet. You especially need more protein when you're weighlifting. Just wanted to point that out because some of the posts I have read have made it sound more like some other supplements.

Anyway, I use protein after my workout, but then again when I can't get a meal in. Before my workout I eat real protein like low-fat cottage cheese or tuna. If I'm going to be out of the house for a long period of time I throw some whey in a baggie and bring a water bottle and have it on the go. Or, lets say in the morning you just don't feel like making eggs or steak or some other type of protein. I have heard of people mixing their protein powder with their oatmeal. I personally tried it and just about gagged, but to each their own.

So, think of it more like tuna instead of a "supplement". If you have the time real food is always better. Oh yea, some people even use whey protein for cooking. (mostly low-carb baking)

[~ice~]

well is 1 serving per day enough? cuz i am kinda tight on $$$.

[theroc]

Originally posted by ~ice~
well is 1 serving per day enough? cuz i am kinda tight on $$$.

I'd use 2 scoops post workout...

[~ice~]

the optimum nutrition bottle says 1 scoop per serving though. which is 22 grams of protein. so you think this still isnt enough post workout? do you think i should take 2 servings post workout and 1 serving on my off days?

[heibrin]

There is not a 'too much or too little' for protein supplements. It is merely what the word says: a supplement. If you get enough other proteins in through a decent diet, there would be no reason why you NEED to supplement your protein intake...especially if you are tight on your finances. Whey or the lack of it will not make or break your diet.

Whey is great, especially after your workout, but you do need other proteins on top of that. One scoop will be enough, but mix it with yoghurt to slow down its absorption. Add some low-fat cottage cheese if possible (before or shortly after you've had your whey). Chicken, turkey or eggs, even lean beef is essential if you are on a weightlifting program.