Protein Shakes= Waste Of Money

[EL GAUCHO]

I suppose the real debate here is wether or not we need so much protein or not.
I took some pictures 3 months ago during my training (DC style), chowing down 200-300g protein a day. In the pictures I was big, but I was also pretty bloated with little definition.
I compare my physique now, training the same, still pushing heavier weights and yes I have lost some weight, but its far better quality with good cuts and striations.
I really don't subscribe to the more is better theory for protein intake, which is probably why I'm saying don't bother with the protein shakes.
I just wonder how many people actually feel better having bumped up their protein levels to huge amounts, especially from non-food sources?
EG

 

[Frackal]

Totally disagree

 

[EL GAUCHO]

So...how come my physique has NOT suffered bro?
Remember, I'm not saying this applies to everyone, but I'm sure alot of people are wasting their money and missing the point of eating a healthy diet to achieve their gains.

 

[Babyfaced Assassin]

Day 2 of the no supplements except a post workout shake

So far so good in terms of body composition and training aspects but dude, i spend way too much spare time (of which i have very little anyway) preparing food!

 

[FatRat]

So...how come my physique has NOT suffered bro?
Remember, I'm not saying this applies to everyone, but I'm sure alot of people are wasting their money and missing the point of eating a healthy diet to achieve their gains.

EL GAUCHO, I don’t think anyone would dispute that it is entirely possible that you, in your particular situation, can do well on whole food alone. I also have no doubt that others could do the same. However we don’t know your stats, goals, lifestyle, calorie intake, the resources available to you, and can I assume from posts on the Anabolic board that you have or do use more hardcore “sups” which would have an anabolic or at least anti catabolic effect? (nothing against this btw, but it is a factor in your own situation).

I notice that your reasoning is based around cost and convenience? Well for me (in my own situation), and for anyone I have ever known (but I’m not saying that this applies to you), a protein shake mixed in a shaker in 10 secs and downed has been infinitely more convenient and cheaper than buying, cooking and eating several large chicken breasts a day. I am not saying this is due to lack of planning ahead, as I DO eat several chicken breasts, assorted meats and cans of tuna during the day, however adding to these with anything other than a shake is far from practical!

 

[EL GAUCHO]

As I said I would love to see how many people would be prepared to train without the use of supplements to see how little a difference it makes.
Personally I have been on protein shakes ever since i started training 10 years ago. The longest I've ever gone without a shake is 2 weeks (holiday).
Each to their own.... but I think we're all too scared to stop doing what we've been doing for the last few years.
The most pronounced effect I think would be psychological. The first 2 weeks of no protein supplementation I kept telling myself: "Shit man you're gonna get really catabolic!" And almost reached for a protein shake.
Are we all proteinaholics?!? Hi my name is El Gaucho...and I'm a proteinaholic.... it has been 4 weeks since my last protein shake....
Babyfaced: keep me posted bro. I'm glad you're taking the challenge. Proper food will build you up good and proper baby!
EG

 

[IHateCrunches]

i drink ab out 4 shakes a day and eat about 3 meals.. not to mention the amount of times i much on carrots or something liek that

 

[IHateCrunches]

www.dpsnutrition.com - the cheapest place I've ordered from and I get the stuff the next day.

witkowsd: this is defnitly one of the best sites i have visited also... good to see others use it. When i bought vpx sports 1-test a whiel back it cost me 91 bucks and they sell it for 55 its a great online store.

BTW: where in new jersey you from? im near exit 116 on parkway

 

[EL GAUCHO]

Well I propose that the 55 bucks would be far better spent on proper food. Four shakes a day? I used to do that too: and found it hard to lose weight.
My skin condition suffered too.
EG

 

[sinjinsmythe33]

dps is numero uno. great service as well.