Jay Cutler is a legend in the bodybuilding world. He has inspired millions of people with his fights with Ronnie Coleman and his incredible work ethic. Even in retirement, he remains active, and on his YouTube channel he recently weighed in on a burning question in modern fitness: can protein powder be your main source of protein?
A dietary supplement, not a dietary staple
Cutler’s answer is pragmatic. While he acknowledges that protein powders work and have their place, he stresses the importance of the word “supplement” itself.
“Can you consume protein powder as your main source of protein? I think it can work… but it’s a supplement that’s meant to complement a great diet,” Cutlerexplains .
According to Cutler, you should view a protein drink as a tool to achieve your daily macronutrient intake, not as a pillar on which to build your diet. If you’re struggling to get in the calories you need or are lacking protein after a workout, it’s a great option. But if you’re replacing breakfast, lunch and dinner with a shake, you’re making a mistake.
What did the volume legend eat?
To understand Cutler’s attitude, we need to look at how he ate during his greatest glory days. His approach to food was as brutal as his workouts:
- He spent over $50,000 a year (over £1 million) on food.
- He ate nearly 2 kilos of meat a day.
- He bought whole animals (cows) and huge stocks of chicken (about 70 kg at a time) and eggs (30 dozen).
Although supplements were not as available and varied in his era as they are today, he used them. However, he never allowed them to replace real food.
Holy Trinity: egg, beef, chicken
Cutler recommends sticking to the basics. His preferred protein sources include:
- Eggs (ideal start to the day)
- Chicken
- Steaks (beef)
- Fish and turkey
If you’re already reaching for protein powder, Cutler recommends whey isolate, which is higher quality and cleaner than concentrates.
The regimen is key
In addition to food selection, Cutler emphasizes timing. He himself ate every two hours and managed six to eight meals a day. While everyone has a different metabolism and needs, his advice is clear: start the day with solid food.
“I always started the day with eggs followed by chicken or beef, with carbs added, of course,” Cutler recalls.
Conclusion
Protein drinks are convenient, quick, and effective, especially after a workout. However, they shouldn’t be your crutch out of laziness. As Jay Cutler says:
“Stick to the standard – eggs, beef, chicken – and only have a protein shake when you really need it.”
After all, muscle is built from quality material, and nothing replaces honest food.
JAY CUTLER: THE TRUTH ABOUT PROTEIN POWDER
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