Question… I was surprised to see that you were still including protein powder for a few of your meals even a few weeks out from your competition. I’m currently 8wks out from a show and was using it up until this Monday when my trainer told me I should not be using protein powder at all at this point in my prep. I was truly disappointed b/c I use to look forward to my pro powder in the mornings or post w/o. I’m confused! What are your thoughts?
A: As far as protein powder and using it leading up to a show, I absolutely do use my protein powders up to the week of my show. Every trainer/nutritionist is different and has their philosophies but I do keep in my powders until a week out. Mind you, whole foods are always better than processed protein powders but sometimes it is hard to get in 6-7 meals, depending on your plan. I always try to eat whole food over having a shake or making a protein pancake but sometimes I get busy and would rather get in a shake than nothing at all. When you get closer to a show, switching over to whole foods is ideal but often not practical. I do like to try to eat whole foods also because they sustain me longer, especially when I am always hungry and my metabolism is on fire! Whole food tends to keep me fuller longer (not much, but still… ). Protein shakes tend to go right through me and I am still hungry immediately after. Like I said, every trainer/nutritionist is different and has their own thoughts/philosophies so your best bet is to talk with them and see if you may be able to have them here and there! My other thought is if that is something you look forward to, keeps you on track and excited for that meal, and it isn’t going to kill you… I always suggest keeping it in. You want the process to be enjoyable and not miserable! I am right there with you, I look forward to my oatmeal and protein shake, it is my favorite meal of the day!! I wouldn’t eliminate that for anything… We have those things we look forward to and my thought is, if it keeps you sain and on your program…. keep it in! Just my two cents 🙂 Thanks for asking, great question!
HOPE THAT HELPS! 🙂
-g
