I don't know if this is the right section, but anyway... I have been eating healthier (ie no junk food, no drinks except water, no fried food, no white bread/pasta, etc). This is my "diet" if you will. I also have been exercising regularly. I run at least 5 days a week and at least 5k as far as distance goes, when I run. Obviously I am here because I want to lose weight. But more importantly, I am concerned with slimming down/toning up (losing inches). The "weight" isn't the biggest concern to me. Which brings me to my question... is it ok for me to incorporate protein shakes into my diet? I found I enjoy them after a run. But I am scared they will pack on weight/fat.

Lots of people incorporate protein powder. Try totting up your calories, going to a good calorie calculator to estimate how many calories you burn, and seeing if there is a calorie deficit. A deficit of 500 calories a day is the usual, and should cause you to lose a pound a week.

I'm on a fairly small calorie allowance due to being small and inactive, and I'm managing to incorporate protein powder, so I'm sure you should be able to manage it.

Protein is good for them muscles that burn the fat. I'm going to try Vega from Veganbodybuilder.com. I was reading someone else's blog on this site and they incorporated protein shakes and damn they look good.

Protein is good for you !! Just watch the calories, there are many low calorie whey proteins products, some good ones are biggest loser and Jillian Michaels, but they are spendy.

Yes. Protein shakes can help build lean muscle and recover from exercise. It really depends on how you're training and it sounds like you're training a good amount. You seem to like them so I say use them.

There was a study done on low fat chocolate milk that came to the conclusion that it was just as effective in the muscle recovery as some the pricier shakes. It's got a great protein/carb balance. It's a good option for when you're low on cash or forget your shake while out and about, almost every convenience store will have chocolate milk.

I take protein shakes for appetite control more than anything else! I have 3 a day (low calorie ones) and they curb my binges and hunger!

I have a shake most mornings for breakfast and sometimes after a workout if I've planned for it. They are great for rebuilding your spent muscles. Whey isolate is a great one to use. Soy isn't great for some reason I can't remember lol. I try to have a carb, fruit, milk, healthy fat, and protein for breakfast, so now I'll have 1 scoop of vanilla creme protein powder, 1 banana, 1 cup skim milk, 1 T peanut butter, 1.5-2 cups of ice blended into a smoothie. It's very filling and super tasty!

What brand do you buy? I've started with premier protein from Costco and it's pretty good. Always looking for other brands.

I picked up some "Biggest Loser" shakes at VitaminShoppe last weekend. They're good, but they're way too expensive for every day ($9.99 for four). You're better off picking up a container of whey protein and making your own with almond milk or skim milk, IMHO.

What do you all think about protein powder or protein shakes for those of us just beginning to work out? I am not doing any weight training, just your basic cardio plus WW.

I like your Idea, NotJustALittleFat, of the protein shake you make for breakfast. I guess if I count the points in the stuff I'm putting into the shake and the protein powder itself isn't high in calorie/fat etc it shouldn't be hurt me. I'm hoping its filling and gives me energy and might be a nice alternative from day to day.

I basically want to know if it's only for people weight training & if its a bad idea for those of us starting out, trying to lose weight with basic cardio at the gym.

Protein can boost your metabolism and protect your muscles, ensuring that you are losing pure fat, and at a faster rate than ever before
You only have to be queen in your choice since settling for the wrong protein powder means the difference between mediocre muscle and a sleeve-splitting physique.