It’s absolutely stunning that in the information age, there are still people who believe they can’t get enough protein in their body. The fact is, that an average person doesn’t need more than about 80 grams of protein on a daily basis. Once the body reaches its limit in protein, any consumption beyond that point can lead to health problems. This is why the body turns excess protein into ammonia, and dispenses the extra protein out through the process of urination.

Of course, muscle heads are usually not considered the average person. With the constant stress and tearing down of the muscle tissue that occurs in hard core weight lifters, a man of 180 pounds would require between 108 and 144 grams of protein per day. The average person does not need to consume protein immediately after a workout. Again, however, a serious weight lifter is going to need to consume between 30 to 40 grams of protein within 45 minutes of working out. Protein shakes are popular, because not only can someone drink one immediately after working out, but because of how quickly the muscle tissue absorbs the protein in the shake.

People often think they can substitute supplements and powders for real food. This is a mistake. Because of how fast the protein is absorbed by the body, the person will feel hunger not long after the shake. Real food is absorbed by the muscles in a slower manner, and also contains other nutrients the body craves in addition to protein. It is not impossible to reach one’s protein goals with food alone. For instance, an 8 ounce top sirloin will contain about 69 grams of protein.

As stated earlier, protein shakes are excellent for a post workout alternative to a meal, because of its convenience and absorption rate. Also, if someone finds themselves short of the grams needed to reach their protein goal, it’s easier to drink a shake than to broil up a sirloin. It’s important for the consumer, be they banker or boxer, to know how much protein is needed for the day’s business. The body will only allow so much protein, so it’s vital to ingest it at the right times and intervals. If a person can stay grounded with these simple facts, they cannot have their head spun around by fads and opinions.