Author: Regev Elya, main author at FreshBeetle . Com . I write about nutrition, exercise and alternative medicine as a way for sharing my knowledge with the public and helping them ‘hack’ the system by challenging basic beliefs and discovering better ways. Feel free to drop by from time to time, I’ll be happy to have you there.
Homemade Meal Replacement Shakes – What Is It All About ?
A few weeks ago, one of my readers sent me a somewhat disturbing mail. He told me he quit working out because he does not have the option to make neither commercial nor homemade meal replacement shakes (also known as weight gainers) during the day since he is very busy. What disturbed me is the fact that this guy actually thought that all of these hyped (or homemade) shakes are necessary for growth. I was astounded to hear it, so I thought I’m gonna make a post out of it ! (there you go!)
First of all, straight and strict – there is absolutely no need in any type of supplement in order to get bigger. All you need is progressive overload (weight going up and up over the time) and enough food. How much is enough? Above what makes you stall in weight gain. Supplements are there just to make our life easier, nothing more, nothing less. Although pretty helpful at times, I have never used them more than a few days in my life, and could definitely gain the same amount of muscle I gained, without them.
So… Do You Recommend Them Then ?
Only if you truly don’t have the time for a meal. Let’s admit it, nothing beats real solid whole foods. Nothing. Given no other choice, yes, these weight gainer shakes can ‘save your day’ (not really.. doesn’t really matter over the long term). Most important thing is that you keep working hard. Be determined, be willing to evolve as your body grows, and reap the benefits.
If what you’re after is getting a six pack and losing weight, It’s a totally different planet. I personally don’t see any reason to take a meal replacement supplement or shake if what you’re after is actually losing weight. There’s only so many calories you can consume when trying to achieve that goal, and believe me, you don’t want to spend them on un-solid foods that will not satisfy your ever growing hunger. Everybody knows the feeling of a diet.
Last Few Words on Fitness Generally
I reached this world (health and fitness) by an unusual path. I was a very skinny dude at school, weighing around 55kg, and then I was recruited to the army. After achieving my goals and reaching 83kg, I can honestly say that the benefits of weight resistance training are so, so, so vast. Way beyond aesthetics. It goes all the way to self confidence, and natural body language that evolves with you and paints you as a more social-proof guy. It is the best thing that ever happened to me, and I hope you can achieve your goals and enjoy it just as much ! Good luck.
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