The benefits of using nutritional supplements have been highlighted by one fitness epxert.

Writing on weightgain4you.com, Wesley McDermott noted that it is important to use protein supplements in an effective way, otherwise users may not benefit at all.

He noted that for those looking to build muscle levels, it is important to use a nutritional supplement straight after a workout as the body is "hungry for the nutrients it needs to renew and repair muscle tissue".

Also, consumers should use nutritional supplements an hour after they have completed their workout, as this acts as an accelerator in the body to boost the recovery of muscle fibres.

Further to this, there can benefits to taking a protein supplement both first thing in the morning and last thing at night, Mr McDermott points out.

But he reminds users not to take a protein supplement immediately before a workout, as this can lead to bloating.

There are a number of different types of proteins shakes available, with some providing a quick release while others take longer to digest.