Whey Protein

Whey protein is a byproduct of cow's milk, separated from the cheese-making curds after pasteurization. Commonly found in health food stores, it is most often purchased in the form of a powder and consumed by being mixed into water or milk.

Whey protein is widely considered to be the most nutritious of all protein products. It is particularly prized by athletes and bodybuilders as a supplement for protein deficiencies resulting from their active lifestyle.

Benefits of Whey Protein

A healthy daily dosage of protein is vital for the body's well-being. Among other benefits, protein provides amino acids which maintain the health of tissues and bones and provide energy for strenuous activity. Fortunately, protein is widely available in the standard diets of most developed countries, and only rarely do people from these countries experience a deficiency in their protein intake. Whey protein is thus more often used for supplementary purposes or for individuals with special needs.

Whey protein possesses numerous advantages over other sources of protein. In particular, whey protein is much lower in carbohydrates and fats than other proteins, which reduces potential threats to the heart. It also produces specific amino acids that strongly assist to bolster the immune system.

Whey protein is abundant in human breast milk and so is often used in infant formulas and by pregnant and nursing mothers as a supplement to ensure the health of their child. Whey protein products are also popular among the lactose-intolerant, who are unable to consume common protein sources derived from dairy products. Although whey protein is created from milk, it is extremely low in lactose. Whey also finds favor with vegetarians as an alternative protein source to red meat and fish.

Whey Protein and Athletes

Whey products are most frequently used by athletes. When a great deal of exertion is put on the muscular system, it is usually necessary to intake more protein than is available in a typical diet to ensure its healthy functioning and maintenance. Because whey is the purest form of protein supplement available, it is usually the product of choice to help fill this dietary gap. Athletes commonly consume whey drinks both before and after sporting events to reduce fatigue and wear to their musculature. In addition to promoting muscle growth and recovery, whey can also serve as a base around which to structure an effective weight-loss diet.

Whey Protein Isolate and Concentrate

Whey protein products are distinguished into two categories: whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Isolate is protein in its purest form, possessing no less than 90% pure protein, and contains nearly no carbohydrates, fat, or lactose. Concentrate possesses more of these additives and may itself consist of as little as 30% actual protein.

By Matthew Ingalls