Geeta Sharma Geeta Sharma Asked 7 months ago

Do protein shakes cause weight gain?

My gym trainer suggested I include protein shakes in my diet for better recovery and muscle growth. I'm a bit hesitant because I don't want to gain excess weight. Do protein shakes cause weight gain if taken regularly, even without intense exercise?

6

6 answers

Meera Shah Meera Shah Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago
Most liked

If you are a vegetarian like me, protein shakes are a good way to meet your daily requirements. However, you must be careful not to consume extra calories from added sugars or heavy dry fruits in the shake. Keep it light by mixing it in water or low-fat milk.

Rohan Bhatia Rohan Bhatia Joined May 2026 5 months ago

I used to panic when my weight went up by two kgs right after starting whey protein. My trainer reassured me that it was just muscle recovery and minor water retention in the muscles, not actual fat. Give your body a few weeks to adjust.

Gopal Sharma Gopal Sharma Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

You must check the label for carbs and added sugars before buying any protein powder. Many commercial brands are loaded with sweeteners that can cause insulin spikes and subsequent weight gain. I stick to unsweetened whey isolate to stay safe.

Powered by

Consult a dietary specialist

Kriti Sanon Kriti Sanon Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

I had the same worry when I started working out! Honestly, they only make you gain weight if you drink them in addition to your regular big meals. If you use them as a post-workout snack to keep you full, they actually help with toning up.

Vasundhara Raju Vasundhara Raju Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

With my hypothyroid condition, my metabolism is already slow, so I have to be very careful with protein drinks. If you find yourself gaining weight suddenly, it is better to get your TSH levels checked rather than just blaming the protein shake. Keep consulting your doctor regularly.

Related reads

All articles
Sushma Swamy Sushma Swamy Joined May 2026 6 months ago

I tried losing weight using various herbal drinks and home remedies, but my muscles felt very weak. When I started a clean protein shake, my strength improved, though my weight stayed the same initially. It is a good addition as long as you do not drink it with high-calorie snacks.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.