Kiwis and Protein Shakes

Auckland, 18 January 2018. A recent report to come out of the USA has predicted that the global protein shake business is set to be worth a staggering (USD) $7.5billion by 2020. And, as their popularity also increases here in New Zealand, how much do we know about what they are and how we should use them?

Although protein is commonly found in many of the foods we eat, chicken, eggs, red meat and nuts (to name but a few), in some circumstances, we may need or want to increase our protein intake to aid with getting fit or losing weight.

Canstar Blue’s Emma Quantrill explains:
“In very simple terms, protein is the foundation for the support, growth and regeneration of cells in our body and it’s typically thought that we need somewhere between one half to one gram of protein (per day) for every kilo of body weight. However, if we are undertaking strenuous activity or looking to build muscle mass, protein intake needs to increase.
“Alternatively, a high protein, low carbohydrate diet can be used to aid weight loss as proteins are thought to reduce hunger. Protein shakes are a popular way of doing this but should be used carefully as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.”

What are protein shakes?
Protein shakes (and powders) come in all different guises and can use various foodstuffs to source their protein. The most common form is whey protein and although it comes from milk, is considered to have a relatively low lactose content. Another milk-derived protein is Casein but this tends to be more expensive than Whey. It also takes longer for our bodies to absorb, so while Casein is a good protein to use as part of a weight-loss diet, it’s not the best for the post-workout boost your body might be craving.

Who uses them?
A recent Canstar Blue survey of 760 Kiwis revealed that although protein shakes are popular amongst both men and woman, they are used for largely different purpose, with both sexes fitting within the gender stereotype:

Source: Canstarblue.co.nz
Quantrill continues:
“A healthy diet should always be the basis of any health and fitness kick, but protein shakes can be considered as part of that. There is a wide variety now available in New Zealand so research your options and find one that is right for you.”

Most satisfied customers
With so much choice out there, it can be tricky for consumers to know where to look. To help people get started Canstar Blue asked New Zealand consumers to rate the qualities of the protein shakes they had used.
Kiwi company Horleys scored high in all categories and took the maximum five stars for overall customer satisfaction.

For further information regarding this survey, please click here.

This information is not medical advice, and Canstar Blue is not making a recommendation or giving advice about medications or health related products. Always seek the advice of a doctor or pharmacist to find the right medication for you.

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