The radio is full of fat loss hype ads of liquid protein before bed. A simple solution where you don't have to change your diet or exercise more, but lose weight. I knew it was too good to be true and did a little research. What the ads don't tell you is that you have to take this liquid protein on an empty stomach, no eating three hours before you take it. There's your calorie deficit. Sooo, I don't buy it, but I'm curious about the protein before bed idea and wondering if with diet and exercise, is there a benefit to protein in the evening hours?
Upon further research I did find many articles promoting eating protein and/or drinking a protein shake 30-40 minutes before bed. There are many arguments as to why this is beneficial, as well as why it can just be an extra calorie intake. Overall I have found that having a late night snack is not taboo, but it is important to have a good balance of protein and carbohydrates in that snack. A common suggestion is cereal with milk, as well as a low-cal milkshake as milk has both protein and carbs. Does anyone do this? I work out a couple hours before bed, and protein is beneficial for helping rebuild muscles and helping keep muscles from breaking down. First problem, I'm lactose intolerant. Soy milk doesn't agree with me either, and while I like almond milk, it only contains 1/3 of the protein in a regular glass of low fat milk. Suggestions? Ideas? What do you think of the protein before bed hype?
