Recovery drinks, protein shakes, and Shakeology are all intended to serve different functions, and wouldn't ideally be used interchangeably.
Recovery drinks are simple-sugar based, and have (relatively) small amounts of fast-absorbing protein (like whey), typically in a ratio between 2:1 and 5:1 of carbs:protein. The P90X Results and Recovery Formula has a 4:1 ratio. They are intended to be taken after intense workouts (within 20 minutes), when the cells of the body are expanded and primed for nutrient replenishment. The simple sugars rush in and replenish your depleted glycogen stores, and also help to carry the protein where it needs to go to begin muscle synthesis. The only time you want to take this amount of simple sugar is immediately following an exhausting workout, when your body's fat storage protocol is in temporary shutdown.
Protein shakes are typically low in carbs and fat, and are intended to add supplemental protein to your diet. While some people use them immediately following workouts, recent research shows that this may not be the ideal application. Too much protein (i.e. upwards of 20 grams, which most protein shakes have) will slow the body's absorption of the nutrients, causing you to miss the 30-45 minute replenishment window that your body has post-workout. If you want to take a shake to up your protein intake during the day, by all means do so, I would just shift it from immediately post-workout to later in the day. We purchase our Naturally sweetened Whey Protein from Vitacost (here is my Refer a Friend Link) The item numbers we buy are Chocolate - OPT 7027266 and Vanilla - OPT 7027273. (these are 5 lb. tubs but it also comes in a 2 lb. tub)Shakeology is also supplemental in nature, as it's intended to add phytonutrients (plant concentrates) to your diet to increase the amount of vital nutrients you get from fruits and veggies.
It is not designed to be for post-workout, as it has a good amount of fiber and is relatively high in protein, both of which will slow absorption (just like a protein shake would). Look to Spotlighting some of the 70 ingredients in Shakeology for a more information. The Shakeology ingredients that target good digestive health are Blue Green Algae, Flax seed meal, Schisandra Powder, Yacon Root and Chlorella (See Special Spot light on Chlorella ) Lastly a great post from Carl Daikeler about Whey Protein ishttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifolate and how it is right for Shakeology. We Go Both Wheys…Also see: Is Shakeology just an Expensive Protein Shake?
Shakeology Update: Now there is a Vegan Protein Formula not from Soy. Tropical Strawberry Vegan ShakeologyUpdate: January 2012 Just introduced a Natural Pre-Workout Drink.
See New Energy and Endurance Drink
