Have you ever thought about when the best time to eat protein is to get the most out of your workouts? Timing can really make a difference if you want to build muscle or get better faster. Let's figure out what works best: before or after working out.

Eating protein before working out

Eating protein one to two hours before your workout can help your body get ready to work out. When you eat protein with carbs, it can help your muscles work better, keep you from breaking down muscle during the session, and keep you full. A boiled egg with toast, Greek yogurt with fruit, or a protein smoothie are all good choices. This is especially helpful for people who do strength training or work out for long periods of time.

Eating protein after a workout

People often call the time after a workout the anabolic window, when your muscles are more open to nutrients. Eating protein 30 to 60 minutes after working out helps start the healing process, reduces soreness, and builds muscle. Whey protein shakes, cottage cheese, or chicken and rice with little fat are all good choices. Protein is very important for recovery because the body quickly absorbs it after a workout.

Which is better?

Protein before and after a workout both have their own benefits, but if you have to choose one, post workout protein is a little bit better. It helps your muscles heal faster, makes them less sore, and encourages growth when your muscles are most open to it. The most important thing is to get enough protein every day. Timing is helpful, but for long-term fitness goals, how much you eat is more important.

Being consistent is more important than finding the perfect time for protein. If you eat before, after, or both, make sure that your overall diet helps your training. For the best results from your workouts, eat protein with complex carbs and drink enough water.

Anshul Singh, Team Leader, Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics Department, Artemis Hospitals