- By Bornika Das
- Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:41 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Milk vs Water For Protein Shake: Protein shakes are considered one of the most popular ways to boost the intake of proteins and support muscle building, bone health and weight loss. Proteins are known as the building blocks of the body, which are an important macronutrient supporting cells, organs and tissues. Protein shakes are usually consumed by gym-goers, fitness enthusiasts and casual shake sippers. Mostly water or milk is used as the base for the protein shakes. These make a huge difference in the texture, nutrition and how the body processes the shake. However, there has been a debate that has been lingering around through the ages, that is, whether milk or water provides the best base for the protein shake, impacting the overall protein content and nutritional value.
What Should You Take Protein With?
It is believed that whether you’re mixing protein powder with milk or water depends on the health goals and personal taste preferences. For a low-calorie protein shake, it is important to mix it in water rather than milk, as water has no calories. However, if you want to incorporate a few calories in, go ahead by adding milk to the protein powder. Milk is packed with carbs, fat and protein.
Moreover, it also depends on how you want your shake to taste. To add more creaminess to your protein drink, you can add plant-based milks like almond, coconut and soy milk. Water-based protein shakes are mostly thinner and without any flavour. Also, those who are lactose intolerant or suffering from a digestive condition can opt for water over milk.
Benefits Of Protein Shakes With Water
As water has zero calories, it is great for weight loss
Water-based protein shakes are extremely convenient and can be enjoyed at any time without worrying about the drink going bad.
Water, when mixed with protein, helps cut the carb intake.
Benefits Of Protein Shakes With Milk
A cup of milk adds more protein to the shake.
Milk contains whey and casein proteins, which help stimulate muscle growth.
Rich in carbs, milk helps to replenish muscle stores of glycogen, the storage form of glucose the body uses as energy during intense workouts.
Consuming milk-based protein shakes after workouts increases muscle growth, reduces exercise-induced soreness and muscle damage, and rehydrates muscles.
Milk also provides strength to the body.
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Is It Better To Have Protein Shake With Water Or Milk? (Image Credits: Freepik)
Milk vs Water: Which Is Gives Better Results After Workouts?
Adding milk or water to the protein shake is an equally effective way to reach the body composition goals. However, mixing the protein powder with milk is a better option for gym-goers and those who regularly strength train.
Milk helps with muscle growth and reduces soreness and muscle damage after workouts. Protein powder, like whey protein, also has the same benefits. Thus, if you’re thinking of drinking a protein shake with milk, it contributes to extra advantages and will still benefit from supplementing with protein powders, like whey or pea protein, in general.
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