09/04/2026
Morning protein can feel like a stretch for so many women, especially before a workout.
Your body is not always hungry yet, and it can feel easier to skip it, especially those with digestive issues. But the good news is your body remains adaptable.
When you practice eating at a certain time, the body starts to expect it.
This is less about forcing it, and more about building a rhythm your body can rely on.
Research shows that total daily protein intake matters more than exact timing, with no significant advantage to when protein is consumed (PMID: 32232404).
But the pattern I see in my most successful female clients is seeding protein at each feeding opportunity, across the day.
Personal Note:
For me, this means adding in a pre-workout meal right now to see how it affects things. I noticed that in the last month my inconsistency with those last 20g of protein at night, which if I am honest, I know I am resisting. We the strategy, not the goal line.
I am experimenting with protein timing as my protein intake has increased over the past 2-3 years, slowly adjusting as I notice my own tendencies and what works for my body right now, just like I do with my clients.
Also… clearly change isn’t easy and not everyone in this house is thrilled about it, least to say my own canine reflection. 😂
Reference:
Wirth et al., The Journal of Nutrition (2020) systematic review found protein timing had no significant effect compared to total intake. PMID: 32232404.
