Why I've never recommended protein shakes to my clients
/Is one of your favorite go-to breakfasts protein shakes?
Members in my Facebook group Nutrition Superstars were commenting on how they enjoy protein shakes for breakfast or a quick meal (you’re welcome to join my group! It’s free! Just click here).
It inspired me to share why I’ve NEVER recommended a protein shake to any of my weight loss clients to this day. My response tends to surprise people but it’s very important.
Now remember, if you’re not a client of mine, I don’t know you or your unique health situation. So, this info may or may not pertain to you so please use discernment (or sign-up for a free consult if you’re interested in becoming a client).
Why I've never recommended protein shakes to my clients
1. For the clients I serve, a lack of protein was never their issue (so I didn’t focus on it).
My clients come to me because they have 50-75+ pounds to lose and may be struggling with a chronic disease or want to get off medication. A lack of protein was never any of my client’s issue so I didn’t focus on it.
Some clients worried about not getting enough protein but as long as you eat enough calories (which generally isn’t an issue in the United States) and are eating enough diverse foods, you’re going to get enough protein.
2. Know the answers to these questions before drinking protein shakes...
How much protein do you need? And, how much are you actually getting?
The Institute of Medicine states that we only need to consume 10% of calories from protein to ensure get a safe amount. According to the Center for Diseases Control, from 2013-2016 every sex and age group in America is getting at least 15% of calories from protein. Americans are already eating more than enough protein (2).
Americans are already eating more than enough protein.
3. The source of protein in your shake could be helpful, worthless or harmful.
If you use protein powders (I don’t) then it should come from whole plant foods. But be careful because a lot of those protein supplements are made for people who workout vigorously and aren’t concerned about weight loss. That’s not my clients! So, depending on the nutrient profile of even whole food plant-based protein powders, they may not help promote weight loss.
I would never recommend a client use animal-based protein drinks as animal protein is associated with many chronic diseases. And there can be an excessive amount of caffeine harmful chemicals supplements in them.
Not all protein supplements are created equally ;)
I have two recommended readings on this topic…
Recommended Readings
In my next video I’ll share why I don’t recommend smoothies as my NUMBER energy boost for breakfast. Now I’d love to hear from you… comment below with your answer today’s Take Control Now question…
Take Control Now
Why do you think you should have protein in your smoothies? Or, what new information did you learn from this video?
References
National Academy of Science. Summary Report of the Dietary Reference Intakes. Macronutrient Summary. Accessed online July 20th, 2021. https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/summary-report-of-the-dietary-reference-intakes
“Table 24. Mean macronutrient intake among adults aged 20 and over, by sex and age: United States, selected years 1988–1994 through 2013–2016” Accessed online on July 19th, 2021 https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/diet.htm