Another Question About Protein Drinks

[The Iron Man]

I know this place has loads of Questions about Protein shakes..but heres another.

I have been going to the gym for a while (i dont box thought), but i go 3 times a week because i have uni work and football to do aswell. I decided to try out some protein shakes to help gain weight, and was wondering if i should take them on days even if i dont go to the gym? and how many a day i should take?

Cheers.

[Clegg]

If you go to the gym 3 days a week then your body will be growing 7 days a week, so feel free to have one on whatever day suits you.

My opinion is that you should attempt to eat real food at meal times whenever possible, but the times when a protein shake is best are:

When you first wake up. Your body needs protein ASAP so take one in water first thing. The reason for having it in water is that it'll ensure that the protein gets into your system quickly.

After a workout, for the same reasons that you have one in the morning. Also have some simple sugar at the same time.

You could have one in milk before bed. The milk will slow down the digestion rate and is your best way of getting protein while you sleep. Bear in mind that milk contains sugar and if you chose to have it late at night you will probably end up gaining fat as well as muscle. Having said that it is difficult to gain a decent amount of muscle without gaining some fat too.

Post-workout is the most important one IMO.