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The Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss

Protein shakes can be made with several intended uses in mind. Many people tend to categorize them as tools to help people gain weight and build lean muscle mass. However, protein shakes can also be used effectively for weight loss when made with the right ingredients. If you combine several different healthy ingredients, you'll get a healthy, quick beverage that can greatly assist your weight loss goals.

  1. Benefits

    • There are many benefits to using protein shakes as a weight loss tool. The protein in the beverage will help to keep your body feeling full, preventing snacking later in the day. Some of the other ingredients for protein shakes will help provide your body with other essential nutrients, such as antioxidants and vitamins. Additionally, starting your day with a protein shake will kick your metabolism into a high gear immediately, allowing you to burn as many calories as possible all day long.

    Protein Powders

    • With weight loss in mind, it's always important to eat plenty of protein that will help keep your body feeling full. However, you will not require the large doses of protein that those looking to build new muscle need. Therefore, adding in protein powder is entirely optional if you have other sources of protein in your shake. A half scoop of protein powder, which will provide upwards of 10 grams of protein while adding less than 100 calories, is more than sufficient if you so choose. Additionally, protein powders come in various flavors that can help add to the taste of your shake.

    Fruit

    • Fruit is an essential ingredient for protein shakes. The fruit you use will in large part determine the flavor and consistency that you end up with. Additionally, adding fruit will provide a huge boost of vitamins and antioxidants that your body needs for overall health. The fruit you use can be either fresh or frozen, but you should avoid fruit salads or other mixes that contain sugary syrups. Include one to three servings of fruit in your protein shake.

    Liquid Ingredients

    • The liquid ingredients for protein shakes will provide you with plenty of variation. Any kind of fruit juice can be used, such as orange juice or pineapple juice. Additionally, low-fat or skim milk can be used in place of the juice for a different spin. For a thicker shake, add several handfuls of ice.

    Other Ingredients

    • There is no limit to the kinds of ingredients for protein shakes that you can use. For a different twist you can include a tablespoon of peanut butter along with a cup of milk and a banana. For an additional boost of protein and a thicker consistency, you can add in a small serving of low calorie yogurt into your protein shake.

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