When it comes to your protein shaker, you are spoiled with choices for what you can put in for your post workout boost or mid-day snack. If you are a beginner or a regular gym goer who has never ventured from their favourite brand, you may have heard of protein water but wondered what it has to offer. Protein water is one of the latest supplements to hit the industry, giving life back to your protein shaker. Whether it is a protein water powder or a prepackaged can or bottle, it offers a new way to support your hydration and protein needs post workout. 

There is also the benefit of protein water being a great alternative to milky protein. Most protein waters offer a dairy-free alternative, such as Nexus Super Protein Water, which uses protein sources like collagen. This allows for a protein powder that mixes and goes down very easily, feeling like any other water-based or electrolyte supplement. So, if you want to avoid the usual protein powder conventions of thick and gloopy protein shakes, check out more on protein water. 

What Does Protein Water Do

This isn't just a bog-standard protein powder with water, it is specifically designed to offer the benefits of an added protein supercharge in a tasty way that is also convenient for hydration. Protein water is specially formulated to mix well water, using water-soluble proteins like whey protein isolate (WPI) or plant-based protein. There's also the regular inclusion of collagen protein that offers an added boost to protein levels. The protein content in protein water ranges based on the company and product, but typically, it sits between 10g to 25g in each serving. This is with high levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), which aid in stimulating muscle growth and repairing damaged cells. Plus, with the formulations that mix WPI and collagen protein, you get a calcium and magnesium-rich formula that supports your general health and wellbeing. An additional benefit of a more water-soluble protein is its processing and stripped-back ingredient list results in a product that is lower in fat and calories than typical protein powder. You do not, however, have to scrimp on other benefits. Protein water usually also includes the vitamins and minerals you’d expect from a protein powder, Macro Mike Plant Protein Water has vitamins B, C and amino acids, which can all have a substantial impact on performance and results. Muscle Nation Protein Water has a wide range of flavours, usually light and fruity, tasting like flavoured water that is palatable before and after a big workout. Body Science Collagen Protein contains a blend of collagen, whey, BCAAs and vitamin C to support the body and wellbeing. 

Benefits of Protein Water

If you are considering starting your supplement journey or are adding to a pre-established stack, you still may not be sure of what exact benefits it could offer you. Protein water shares some of the multitude of benefits found in other protein powders, along with a few exclusive benefits that come with its refreshing, low calorie and fat formula. 

Determination

When you give your muscles the proteins available in protein water, like WPI, you help contribute to fueling the growth of muscles and maintenance of lean muscle. This also has the benefit of supporting processes like the creation of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) and other sources of energy. This can exponentially support determination without being impeded by feelings of muscle discomfort and fatigue. 

Muscle Recovery

Protein water offers the benefit of supporting muscle recovery in a low-calorie way. When you consume protein water after a strenuous workout, it can be vital for rebuilding muscle tissue. Not only does this potentially aid in growing stronger and better muscles and mass, but it also reduces the risk of muscle soreness. 

Convenience

One of the great advantages of protein water is how convenient it is, especially if you are on the go. Not only do you have the option of a powder that you can mix into your protein shaker, but there are a multitude of premade options. These on-the-go protein waters don’t require any mixing and make it quick to support protein levels with a busy lifestyle. 

Hydration

When you get a protein water formulation, you are also getting support to remain fresh and hydrated, no matter where you are in your day. Most formulations double up on the hydration element, mixing electrolytes into their formula for additional aid. With optimal hydration, you not only maintain your fluid levels but also add extra support for other areas of your body in its recovery. 

Appetite Aid

Like other forms of protein, protein water can leave you feeling fuller for longer. This means that you can abate a post workout craving without having to reach for another milky protein shake. This can be a particular selling point if you are in a calorie deficit, as protein water usually sits under 100 calories. 

Variety 

If you are considering protein water, it is likely you have some experience with other forms of protein supplements. Whether it's a bar or a shake, you may be looking for an alternative or a bit of differentiation in your routine. Protein water offers a variety of flavours that are usually based around refreshing, fruit-based formulas. This ease of consumption can make it encouraging for you to stay consistent with your protein intake. 

When Should I Take Protein Water?

One of the eases of protein water is that most brands who have released protein water, have made it readily available in cans and bottles that can be bought and stored in preparation for instant use. Like with other proteins, you can use protein water post workout to aid in recovery, with the additional benefits of potential electrolyte formulas. Alternatively, you can use protein water prior to your workout as a way to abate cravings throughout the day or before your gym session. Not only could this satisfy you and leave you feeling fuller for longer, but there's also the added benefit of adding to your protein intake to make sure you are hitting goals with macros. Some gym goers may even use it as a replacement for a sleep formulation. These formulations usually support areas like skeletal muscle in their rest and recovery. With fast-acting support with added collagen protein, you can drink protein water before bed and avoid any discomforts that can mess with your sleep schedule. 

How Should I Take Protein Water?

When it comes to taking protein water, the paramount requirement is that you read the instructions on the supplement. This assures that you are dosing an amount that has been recommended by the brand and not exceeding the amount needed. It is also important to remember that the amount of protein you should consume varies from person to person and is affected by factors like weight and goals. Most adults are quoted a ratio of 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight for their daily consumption, commonly resulting in a consumption of 25 to 50 grams a day.