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Accordingly, should runners take protein powder?
If a powder contains mostly protein, it is neglecting some of the other nutrients necessary for the recovery of endurance athletes (such as glycogen). For distance runners looking to drink a powdered shake post-workout, I recommend finding a shake that is developed specifically for endurance athletes.
Also, is protein powder good after cardio?
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a carbohydrate/protein ratio of 3:1 in a post-workout meal is appropriate for most people. Protein will help rebuild muscles, while carbohydrates will replace muscle glycogen stores. This will replenish your energy.
About 15 grams of protein per hour during exercise will suffice, while a total of 20 grams of protein in the first hour after exercise is as much as the body can use for immediate recovery.