I have a question about protein too... are protein shakes just for people who want to gain weight, or can it be for a women trying to lose weight? I bought 100% ion exchange whey protein (50grams protein, 0 fat & carbs) but am hesitant to start taking it because I don't want it to slow down or stop my weight loss.

I work out (walk/run) 6 days a week, and do an hour of weight training once or twice a week... I don't know if that matters.

I've used them while weight training. I low carb as well. A friend of mine--male--suggested eating 1 gram of protein for every pound of body weight; and, even while low carbing, it was still hard to get that much protein so I ended up using the supplements. They're not going to cause you to gain weight unless you are taking in more calories than you consume.

CJ where are you - need your advice on this one. I think it is a good idea to supplement if you are not eating enough protein. Working out as much as you are your muscles will develop with more protein. More muscles = higher metabolism, burns more calories, leaner look, etc. Sounds like it is low calories? So long as you don't take in too many calories it can't hurt. You may not lose as much weight as per the scale because muscle weighs more than fat. You could be gaining muscle and losing fat and the way to tell is how your closes fit (also how your skin fits, hehehe).
GOOD LUCK!!! Tauri

The center that I was so successful at gave us 4 protein (whey) supplements a day. I lost weight fast, and the food was extremely healthy...lean meats,green vegetables, only 2 fruits a day, no bread. This center was overseen by MDs and they monitored your blood work to prevent problems. Each protein drink had about 18 grams of protein, 80 calories or less. You can buy the pre made packets in a variety of flavors on the 'net much more cheaply than the centers charge.