Find Your Whey

What's the scoop on them giant tubs supermarket? Are they only for those who want to bulk up, or do they have hidden benefits for all? Anuradha Withanachchi takes a healthy swig.

- Anuradha Withanachchi

You've probaby seen sweaty gym bunnies pouning a few spoons of powder into their bottles of water and downing the milky concotion after finishing their workouts. Welcome to the world of instant protein shakes - the magic potion that rejuvenates and build muscles, and adds a concentrated dollop of nutrients to your daily diet. But are protein shakes only meant for those intending to break a serious gym sweat, or can we all benefit from these miracle powders?

THE POWER OF PROTEINS

Proteins are compounds built up of amino acids and act as macronutrients in your body, aiding the building of hormones, enzymes, cartilage, skin, bones and muscle mass. So, proteins make up some of your body’s most vital Lego blocks, and hence form a key component of your diet.

According to Jessica Crandall, a registered dietician and nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Ohio, when protein is broken down inside the body, it acts as a charger or revitalizer to muscle mass, which would explain why most gym lovers swear by the drink—they recover faster, and can commit their all to the next session.

LET’S (PROTEIN) SHAKE IT DOWN