If you're new to the fitness scene, you've probably watched videos to determine the best way to consume whey protein. Well, you're in luck because I've got the answers right here.
Ultimately, the choice of beverage to mix with your whey protein boils down to your fitness objectives. Whether you're aiming to bulk up or build lean muscle mass, your personal goals will dictate the ideal combination for you.
Personally, I drink my protein shake with water twice a day. I'll explain why and smack you with all the simple benefits of this in this article. I know what you're thinking and don't worry – I've figured out a way for it to taste better than with milk as well.
How Do I Mix Protein Powder With Water?
Just stick to the basics: add 6-12 oz of water for each scoop of protein powder and shake well with your shaker or mix in a mixer. If it's to blend, add more protein powder. If it's too thick, simply add more water. A pro tip is to always start by adding the water before the powder.
Benefits Of Mixing Protein Powder With Water
1. Cutting Friendly
If you're aiming to shed some pounds, water is your ally. A protein shake mixed with water typically clocks in at around 110 calories, compared to a hefty 270 calories when mixed with milk. That's a significant difference! in the long run, especially if you drink more than one a day.
Now, let's talk about carbs and fats. While they're essential for muscle gain and overall health, some prefer to keep a close eye on their calorie intake. Milk contains carbs, which might not align with your carb-cutting goals. Plus, each 250ml glass of whole milk packs 8.3 grams of fat and 4.8 grams of saturated fat, which might not be what you're after if you focus solely on protein.
2. Quicker Digestion
Mixing protein powder with water can lead to quicker digestion than mixing it with other beverages like milk. The liquid consistency of water allows the protein powder to dissolve easily, facilitating faster absorption by your body. This means that you can refuel and recover more efficiently after your workout, helping you stay on top of your game.
3. Taste
You must think that I'm mad – but hear me out. I honestly believe that Whey Isolate Protein tastes better with water, but you're going to need a few more ingredients! If you mix whey with ONLY water, its not going to be a hit. But if you do it according to my recipe, I promise that you'll love it.
Want to Bulk Up? Mix Your Protein Powder with Milk
I've stated it before in this bigger article about what you can mix protein with, if you want to gain more weight and add muscle mass then milk is a good friend of yours.
For those striving to bulk up, milk emerges as the go-to option, particularly for hard gainers grappling with adding mass to their physique. Milk boasts a rich supply of fats and carbohydrates, essential for fueling muscle growth and achieving desired body transformations.
Carbs play a pivotal role in not just amplifying size but also facilitating muscle recovery post intense weightlifting sessions. And, they furnish the necessary energy to power through rigorous gym workouts. So, when it comes to building muscle and reaching your fitness goals, milk is a valuable ally in your journey toward physical transformation.
My Recipe For a Great Tasting Protein Shake With Water
This morning, like any morning I mixed my favourite water protein shake. Since I'm still one month away from my cutting period, I can still afford the extra carbs and calories from the banana and light peanut butter. I might get rid of the half banana once I start cutting but I'm not sure if I will as this really is such a nice healthy treat for me every morning. The ingredients are:
- Water – approx 12 oz
- One and a half scoops of Whey protein
- One teaspoon of low-fat peanut butter
- Half banana
- 3 teaspoons of frozen blueberries
Mix it, preferably in a mixer. I use a Nutri Bullet in the office and a Ninja mixer at home; both will do the work. Make sure to start with the water first and add the protein powder at the very end. And there you have it, an extremely tasty and nutritious protein shake based on water. These are the nutrition that you get:
Protein | Carbohydrates | Calories | Vitamins |
49 | 17 | 240 | Fiber, Vitamin C,K |
My End Take
If you're into a calorie deficit, high protein diet then mixing water with protein powder is recommended. You can still get a really nice taste and texture from your protein shake without those extra calories that milk brings. In fact , you can still drink water with your protein powder during bulking season. Just add an extra banana and peanut butter to the mix and you'll end up with a fantastic result. Or, do a 50/50 split with water and milk – whatever makes you happy and gets you the macros you're looking for!
Is there anything that you'd like to add? Any questions? Hit me in the comments.