Protein Powders: How are They Best Used?

Protein powders have been around for decades and have come a long way since their humble beginnings. Bodybuilders have also come a long way over those years when it comes to how we use protein powders; many of us using them as a way to gain muscle.

But gaining muscle is just one of the benefits of using protein powders, and it's not the best one either. Before I continue, let me say that I often write about the negative influences that professional bodybuilders have on bodybuilders who don't use performance enhancers.

This time however, because of the way in which professional bodybuilders use protein powders (not the way they market them) I will say that their influence is positive. I say that because professional bodybuilders mainly use protein powders to help spare muscle while they are getting cut.

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So the best way for you to use protein powders is when you are getting lean. The ideal way for you to get your protein on a daily basis is by way of the foods that you eat, period. When you are restricting calories, the use of protein powder is a great way to help spare muscle.

If you are not convinced of this, read the label on your protein powder, it will read something like this "use this product as a food supplement only. Do not use for weight reduction." A "food" supplement, meaning you are supposed to get your protein from "food." That doesn't mean you can't use protein powder while bulking.

But, if you do use them while bulking, only do so before going to bed on workout days. This is the best way to get the most out of your protein powder. Another way that you can use protein powder is for a high protein snack, but to use them on a daily basis is simply unnecessary.