I have read many of the stickies and I couldn't find and answer to my question. I am not really trying to bulk but more or less going to hit the weights and train cardio. I'm 6'0 and 230lb fyi. In this stage of trying to drop weight would it be advised to mix in some protein shakes with fruit for some of my in between meals or are protein shakes more for bulking ? I am going shopping tonight for some ahemm better foods to consume and I already have an exercise plan worked out.

Initially I was going to go straight cardio for 45 min 5x a week but decided to throw in weights 3 times a week with 20 min cardio and some cardio in the non lifting days instead for fat loss as recommended by other members on here. I would really like some advice so I can make sure to pickup some powder on my shopping list or not.. The hardest part of this seems to be calculating nutrition portions rather than eating healthy and exercise :doh:

Thanks

Protein shakes are just a convenient way to get in some protein, no matter the dietary goal. So yes, if it makes things convenient, use a quality protein powder as a between meal snack.

Thanks for the response.. I think until I can get more into the protein, carb and fat counting I will try to at least just eat better and make sure I do get in some healthy foods.. Maybe once I get more meals planned etc then Ill consider cutting out some protein I guess. One negative thing is that I'm not really a good cook and I am very uncreative when it comes to whipping up something to eat. I think I will be living off tuna sandwiches and turkey sandwiches for the time being haha..

Thanks for the response.. I think until I can get more into the protein, carb and fat counting I will try to at least just eat better and make sure I do get in some healthy foods.. Maybe once I get more meals planned etc then Ill consider cutting out some protein I guess. One negative thing is that I'm not really a good cook and I am very uncreative when it comes to whipping up something to eat. I think I will be living off tuna sandwiches and turkey sandwiches for the time being haha..

Be careful what kind of bread you chose if you go that route. Avoid anything with high fructose corn syrup, enriched/bleanched flour, sugar, etc. An no, Subway isn't a good choice, marketing or no.

A good bread is actually fairly rare, and there are generally better carb choices (but they aren't quite as convenient). Not to say you can't eat bread, just be picky.

If you want to make your shake into something of a meal. You can always add 1/2 cup Oats or yogurt for carbs, a tblsp of peanut butter or olive oil for healthy fats, also some milled Flax seed.

If you're bulking and want some extra cals, also mix with milk, if you can handle it. Luckily I can. Plus it tastes better IMO.

Or just eat it dry with a spoon, it'll take you that long to swallow the stuff you'll think you've had 3 meals.


Just kidding. What I have done in the past is mix it 50/50 with plain yogurt and threw in some flaked filberts/hazelnuts though. Left overnight it tastes well nice.

Personally I just use it as a way of getting protein into me without having the extra calories to go along with it. Being a fish eating vege it's my only decent option on occasion (when i'm sick of tuna, cottage cheese and fava beans).