Water bottle? Check. Workout towel? Check. Pre-workout protein shake? If you're failing to check off that item on your pre-workout to-do list, you just might be losing the chance to blast more calories and burn more fat both during and after your workout, according to a new study conducted at Syracuse University. The researchers reported that exercisers who sipped a protein shake before lifting weights boosted their metabolism and sped up fat loss.
"The extra protein helps lower the stress hormone cortisol, which inhibits your metabolism following exercise," study author Dr Kyle Hackney explained to Men's Health. "Consuming a protein shake and training speeds fat loss and helps build lean muscle." What to look for? At least 22 grams of protein, and be sure to drink that shake at least an hour before you work out. Here are some examples of shakes that we tried and loved:
- With 25 grams of protein per serving, Pure Protein 100 Percent Whey Protein in Frosty Chocolate turns good-for-you into good-tasting!
- Body Fortress Vanilla Whey Protein Powder contains 26 grams of protein per scoop. Try adding different types of fresh or frozen fruit, such as frozen blueberries, for variety.
- Vegans and vegetarians will love PlantFusion Protein and Lifetime Life's Basics Plant Protein. Boost the protein content by mixing with soy milk, such as Silk Very Vanilla Soymilk.
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