• Protein supports muscle development"IMG_1547small" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: roonb under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
  
  

Types

• Protein drinks come in either powdered or already prepared versions. Whey, soy and eggs usually provide the protein for these drinks. Weight gain drinks include extra carbohydrates and calories. Lower calorie forms of protein drinks contain only the powdered protein, sweetener and preservatives. Some manufacturers package protein drinks with extra supplements--herbs, vitamins, energy stimulants and amino acids. Whey protein (a byproduct of milk) is a favorite of athletes and bodybuilders because the body processes it in as soon as 20 minutes after consumption. Soy is the only complete vegetarian protein and egg protein is valuable for those who are allergic to milk products.
  
  

Effects

• Consuming a protein drink to enhance your workouts can effectively increase muscle development. But, multiple protein drinks in one day in addition to a diet heavy in protein could be harmful. Too much protein in the system creates a state of ketosis. This body state increases insulin resistance and glucose intolerance and in turn, creates a risk for coronary artery disease and hypertension. Overconsumption of protein can cause dehydration because the kidneys are overworked by the excess ketones. An article in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine in 2001 also noted that the consumption of too much protein can be associated with the development of osteoperosis.
  
  

Considerations

• Whole foods are always the best source of protein. If you find your diet is deficient in protein or you have trouble eating whole foods following an intense workout, protein drinks might be a good idea for you. Protein drinks do contain calories and many of the prepared ones labeled as smoothies are quite calorie dense. They can lead to weight gain if you consume too many calories.
  
  

Misconceptions

• More is not always better. The most protein your body can metabolize in one sitting is about 30 grams. Your body will store extra protein consumed as fat. Protein should make up between 15 and 30 percent of your daily calories. When you eat too much protein, you tend to forgo other important nutrients like carbohydrates and poly- and mono-unsaturated fats. Check the fat content on some of the protein drinks as well. Many contain significant amounts of saturated fats.
  
  

Warning

• The federal government does not regulate supplements. You should be aware of the possible side effects of any supplements included in your protein drink and possible interactions with medications, alcohol or your physical condition.
  
  Soy protein drinks can be dangerous to some people. Soy causes digestive distress in some people and many people are allergic to it. Individuals with hypothyroid disorders should make their doctor aware of their intake of soy protein drinks because soy may decrease the effectiveness of thyroid medications.