Traditionally, many of us associate protein shakes with bicep bulging body builders. However, as we continue our quest for the ultimate healthy body, protein shakes are becoming increasingly targeted at the health conscious and as a solution to the battle with the bulge.

Protein is a building block for healthy muscles, bones, skin and other tissues. Athletes drink protein shakes as a way to build and repair muscle as well as enhance workout performance. But if you think having a protein shake will all of a sudden give you bigger muscles, you’re sadly mistaken. It is true that as an athlete exercises, more amino acids and protein are used by the body than a sedentary person, thus the need for dietary protein may increase, but contrary to popular belief, extra protein doesn’t build more muscle, nor does it give you extra strength. The only way to build muscle is through exercise. In fact experts say that adding more protein but no more calories or exercise won’t help you build more muscle mass, but it may put your other bodily systems under stress. According to web MD, a diet in which protein makes up more than 30 percent of your caloric intake, can cause a buildup of toxic ketones. Too much protein can also make weight loss more difficult as excess protein is stored as fat!

The recommended daily intake of protein for healthy adults is 0.75 g of protein per kilogram of body weight, or about 45 to 56 g of protein a day. The majority of which, if not all, should come from a diet rich in whole foods. However, as is the case with numerous other nutrients, we sometimes fail to meet our daily intake. The body does not store protein, and therefore getting an adequate amount through our diet is very important for a healthy body. Protein shakes can add as much as 200 grams of protein and 800 to 1,200 calories a day.

According to The International Society of Sports Nutrition, protein shakes are a safe way to ensure enough protein, when used as part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. In other words, adding protein shakes to your diet from time to time is OK but using them regularly as a meal replacement may not be. Drinking shakes in place of a meal can be an effective way to cut calories but when used too often, a person will almost certainly experience nutrient deficiencies.

If you are considering using a protein shake, one of the best forms of protein available and a popular ingredient in many protein shakes is Whey. This type of protein is an excellent source of essential amino acids. It’s a soluble, easy to digest protein that’s efficiently absorbed into the body.

Be sure to examine the ingredients in any protein powder or shake and watch out for artificial flavorings and products high in sugar and fat!