Whey protein is superior to carbohydrate or carbohydrate-whey supplements after training

Adding carbohydrates to a post-workout supplement has no additional effect on increasing muscle mass, abdominal fat loss or total body fat loss, according to a study from the University of Jyväskylä in Finland.

Untrained men participating in a 12-week weight training program were given a supplement containing either 30 grams of whey protein, protein and carbohydrates or carbohydrates only. The drinks were consumed directly after training. Training with weights increased lean mass, muscle size and strength. The whey protein group showed the greatest reduction in abdominal fat and the greatest increase in lean body mass. None of the supplements produced significant changes in body composition, but whey protein alone had the greatest effects on abdominal fat and lean mass.

It may be that these results are not transferable to intensively training strength athletes or bodybuilders.

(Journal International Society Sports Nutrition, 12: 48, 2015)