5 Reasons Why Women Should Drink Protein Shakes for Weight Loss

I'm the first to admit it:  I really don't like drinking my food.  This is why I've always resisted having a protein shake as a meal.   However, as a practitioner I know the benefit of having protein shakes because I've seen great results with my clients. 

Starting the day with a protein shake in the morning is a powerful action when weight loss is your goal.   Here's why:

 Protein Boosts Metabolism

One of the most significant benefits of drinking a protein shake in the morning is its ability to boost metabolism. Protein has a thermogenic effect, which means it increases the body's calorie-burning process. When you consume protein, your body uses more energy to digest and metabolize it than it does for carbohydrates and fats. This process can help women burn more calories throughout the day, leading to weight loss.

Reduces Appetite

When you fuel your body properly in the morning it stabilises your blood sugars and will help to reduce your appetite throughout the day, making it easier to manage a calorie deficit. When you consume protein, it triggers the release of hormones that signal fullness, such as ghrelin and leptin. This process can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods, reducing your urge to snack and overeat.

Builds Lean Muscle

Protein is essential for building and maintaining lean muscle mass. When you consume protein, your body breaks it down into amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle tissue. This is particularly important in the phases of peri-menopause and menopause, when your lean muscle mass starts declining. Drinking a protein shake in the morning can help women maintain or increase muscle mass, which will enhance metabolic power throughout the day.

Convenient, Easy to Prepare and Cost Effective

Protein shakes are convenient and easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy women who are time-poor in the morning.  You can prepare a protein shake in minutes and take it with you on the go. This convenience is key in creating an easy meal option that's delicious and sustainable.  The protein shake recipe that I give to clients works out to approx $2.80 per serve.  For a meal that has 25-30g protein and will keep you full until lunchtime, this is great value.    When you can achieve your weight loss goal AND stay on track with your budget it is a total win-win!

Easy to Digest 

A protein shake gives you 25-30g of protein in a way that your body can quickly digest and assimilate, making it a perfect choice for post-exercise muscle recovery and repair.  This is also a great benefit for people who have poor digestion or are recovering from illness and need to boost their immune system.

I have started having a protein shake first thing in the morning and I've really enjoyed the benefits.  It has made it much easier for me to hit my protein goal for the day.  I struggle to be consistent with daily supplements and now that I take my supplements with the shake in the morning so I'm being more consistent with this habit too.  It's easy to make on busy days and I love not having to think about food until lunchtime.  

If you are looking to improve your metabolism and enhance your weight loss results, I recommend giving it a try.