Fitness enthusiasts should rest assured that Ramadan cannot disturb their fitness routine. It’s true that our eating habits change while fasting and we focus more on our spiritual aspect, we can still make way to ensure a healthy and fit body with regular exercise.
For this, a protein shake is the best thing to incorporate into your Ramadan workout schedule. As the benefits of protein shakes go beyond just providing muscles, they can be a great option to have in your diet.
But, at the end of the day, the talk about protein shakes comes down to one question. What’s the best time for a protein shake in Ramadan? The right time will depend on YOU. You can have a protein shake after Iftar, before Suhoor, and even break your fast with a protein shake. However, it’s best to have protein shakes with your workout in Ramadan.
Let’s learn more about how you can determine the right time to have a protein shake during Ramadan.
What time is best for a protein shake during Ramadan?
As we just said, there is no right time for having a protein shake in Ramadan. It all comes down to your personal preference.
However, while personal preference does play a role, you also need to align your protein shake intake with your workout routine.
As our energy levels are usually low during Ramadan and exercising becomes difficult, having a protein shake pre or post-workout will fuel energy to help with extreme workouts.
Let’s break it down into some common times people prefer to have a protein shake during Ramadan.
Having a protein shake before Suhoor
Some fitness enthusiasts have the energy and dedication to get up before Suhoor and train. If you’re one of them, having a protein shake before Suhoor is a great idea.
So, you can have a protein shake before starting exercise to get more energy during a workout to fuel your needs. However, having a protein shake post-workout is still a good option, as we mentioned that it depends on your personal preference. If you don’t feel like you have the energy for exercise, having a protein shake pre-workout will help.
Apart from providing energy, the fact that protein shakes can curb appetite makes them a great option for Suhoor. By having a shake in Suhoor, you will feel full during the day, and the protein will give you enough energy to keep you active throughout the fasting state.
So, if you’re planning to have your shake at Suhoor, it’s not a bad idea at all!
Having a protein shake while breaking your fast
Most people prefer to have their dose of protein shake while breaking their fast. Well, this approach is fine too.
It is because consuming the shake with Iftar has its own benefits. As your energy levels drain during fasting, consuming a protein shake at Iftar will give you an instant boost of energy to fuel you for Taraweeh and a gym session as well.
You can also add more fruits to your protein shake to get the required vitamins you might be lacking during the day.
So, if you prefer to go to the gym after breaking your fast, it’s good to have a protein shake at Iftar.
Having a protein shake pre or post-workout
Having a protein shake pre or post-workout is the most common approach. But, does this strategy apply during Ramadan?
Well, yes!
If you work out during Ramadan, you can still follow your regular routine of having a protein shake. If you drink your protein shake before a workout during regular days, you can follow this routine in Ramadan too.
As the exercise routine in Ramadan is a bit lenient, you can have a protein shake even two hours after your workout. However, if you’re doing intense exercise, you should have the shake immediately after to facilitate muscle recovery.
It all comes down to your personal preference
As we mentioned at the start of the article, the right time to have a protein shake in Ramadan will come down to your personal preference.
It’s not necessary to follow a specific influencer and match your fitness routine with theirs. As your workout routine, health, metabolism, and eating habits are different from others during Ramadan, you should listen to your body and act accordingly.
Even if you’re unsure about the right time to have a protein shake in the initial days of Ramadan, it’s completely fine. As the routine and eating habits change, your body will take time to fit and adjust.
Take-away message
Having a protein shake at Suhoor, Iftar, and pre or post-workout has its own benefits. All approaches are good on their own, and which one suits you will depend on your routine.
However, we recommend incorporating your protein shake intake with your workout routine during Ramadan.
As muscle recovery and increased energy levels are the main goals, having a protein shake with your workout will keep your body active and healthy, and prevent muscle breakdown.
Still, the benefits of protein shakes in Suhoor and Iftar go beyond just providing energy.
So, make sure you listen to your body and decide the right time to have a protein shake during Ramadan according to your protein requirements and personal preference.
