protein powder help

[torie224]

I'm trying to gain more muscle. I've recently started drinking a protein drink (eas whey protein) after lifting... i have a split workout, so i lift in the morning and do cardio in the afternoon. My question is, on my rest days or after doing just cardio, should i still have a protein drink?

[Paichka]

If it fits into your overall macros, I don't see why you couldn't.

I think there are better post-workout meals for after cardio, though (unless your shake isn't low-carb like a lot of them tend to be). It entirely depends on how long you're going to be doing your cardio. Endurance athletes will have a post-workout meal that consists of high carbs with low fat and low to moderate amounts of protein -- if you look at marathoners, they will typically have oatmeal or pasta after their long runs. Elite swimmers and rowers do the same, though rowers will usually favor a higher protein meal like a tuna sandwich. Our nutritionist in college used to stuff our faces full of chicken and rice after our long practices.

My favorite post-cardio meal is a soy-protein cereal like Smart Start with yogurt, or oatmeal with some protein powder mixed in.

As far as your rest days, I'd probably aim to get my protein from whole-food sources and stay away from the bars, powders and shakes. However, if it fits in well with the rest of your nutrition that day and you enjoy them, go for it.