how much does protein help?

[ReturnedFire]

i was thinking about starting to take protein after workouts. how much does protein help? what are your experiences before, and after starting protein?

[chris mason]

The answer to that question depends on how much you ingest now. If you are deficient (malnutrition) in protein (unlikely in the western world), then it will make a HUGE difference.

If you are not deficient in the malnutrition sense, then it will most likely make a much more modest difference. If pressed for a number, I would say 5-10% difference in terms of improved recovery from exercise. Of course, it is very possible to consume sufficient protein for maximum recovery using foods alone (if you are consuming a large number of total calories.

Protein supplements are really just an easy, low fat way to make sure you are ingesting sufficient protein.

[Dedicated]

I would say if you fix your diet and get plenty of protein and are counting calories to achieve your goals(maintainence/cut/bulk) you will notice the difference and feel better. I agree with Chris, protein powder is nice because it is low in fat and low in carbs. It's also cheaper than canned tuna heh, good stuff.