If done right, drinking one can help you reach your weight andfitness goals.

But done wrong, pain is sure to follow.

For many, shakes have a stomach-churning downside and we mean that literally.

Protein shake

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Drinking the stuff causes stomach pain and nauseaand other unexpected protein powder side effects in countless people.

And oddly enough, it’s not a problem that’s often discussed.

Eat This!

Woman stretching

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Tip

“Wait thirty to sixty minutes after your workout before consuming a protein shake,” suggests Bjork.

That’s why this is such an effective way to prevent stomach pain," explains Bjork.

Your stomach andmuscleswill thank you!

Sugar cubes

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And that’s not the only cause of your uncomfortable side effects.

You’ll also want to avoid sugar alcohols like erythritol, marital, sorbitol and xylitol.

Too much to remember?

Man pouring protein powder in blender bottle

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These all-naturalvegan protein powdersfit the bill.

Not in the least.

“This can lead to nausea due to the blood sugar spikes and drops,” Bjork explains.

Protein powder smoothie

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Post-workout, Bjork recommends that women consume between 20 and 25 grams of protein.

Men should aim for 30 to 35.

Adding one of these healthy fats will help ward off nausea and sugar cravings.

berry oat breakfast smoothie

YOU’RE CHUGGING IT TOO QUICKLY

After a workout you’re totally starving we get it.

Nosh on a lightpre-workout snackbefore hitting the gym so you aren’t famished after you’ve finished up.

Doing so should help to put a stop to the speed eating.

chocolate peanut butter banana breakfast shake

PLUS, don’t miss out on these exciting protein shakes that will fuel your hunger and healthy goals.

Get the recipe fromCreme de la Crumb.

Get the recipe fromCooking Classy.

the green drink

You’ll save over 15 grams of sugar by making the same swap.

Get the recipe fromThe First Mess.

Get the recipe fromRunning to the Kitchen.

raspberry coconut smoothie

Frozen banana adds creamy texture without interfering in the classic dessert flavor you love.

Want something a little more indulgent?

Add a pitted date for natural sweetness and a richer texture.

green detox smoothie

Get the recipe fromGimme Some Oven.

This one’s overflowing with protein from rich almond butter and antioxidants from frozen blueberries.

Get the recipe fromLove and Olive Oil.

apple pie protein smoothie

it’s possible for you to have it way more than twice a year, guilt-free.

Get the recipe fromOne Ingredient Chef.

Get the recipe fromSavory Simple.

blueberry almond butter smoothie

Plus, walnuts boast healthy omega-3s, protein and fiber to keep you satiated.

The cake, for starters, is full of endless amounts of sugar and empty calories.

And if that weren’t enough, it’s smothered in moussey or creamy fat-laden frosting.

chai infused pumpkin pie smoothie

Just remember to consume this one in moderation and preferably not for breakfastit’s still a dessert!

Get the recipe fromLe Creme De La Crumb.

Banish bloat and fight abdominal fat with this detox smoothie.

raw chocolate smoothie

raw banana bread shakes

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