Everybody knows that protein is a crucial nutrient for building muscle mass. However, most people simply do not know when the best time to take protein is. It is only half of the battle knowing you have to take protein, but if you don’t know when to take it, you are going to miss out on lots of gains.
Some people will tell you the best time to take protein is post-work out. And I agree, in part. Really though, the fact of the matter is, there is no best time — protein should be taken every three hours, and it’s as simple as that.
All the while you are not training your muscles are fighting to repair themselves. Because they require a lot of protein to repair themselves fully and grow, it stands to reason you need to keep a steady supply of protein coming in to your body.
Think of it this way: every hour your muscles spend needing protein and don’t have any, they can’t grow and only stand to shrink in size through catabolism.
Keeping yourself in a positive nitrogen balance by eating regular and sufficient amounts of protein is the real key to rapid muscle growth, and will ensure you spend all your time growing.
Of course, it is not always convenient in for you to prepare meals. In this case I would recommend you simply crack open a can of mackerel or tuna and eat that. If it is not convenient to do this even, you may consider protein bars or shakes.
However you decide to do it, the best time to take protein is every three hours.