How Whey Protein can Change Your Life

What is whey protein?
Whey protein is a protein that comes from milk. It is a by-product derived during the process of turning cow's milk into cheese. Whey protein is a high quality, completely natural protein containing all the essential amino acids and is considered among the richest sources of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) - leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAAs are used to fuel working muscles and stimulate protein synthesis.

Benefits of whey:

Helps in body building: Whey is essential for bodybuilding because of its ability to be digested very rapidly. This allows the protein to become quickly available for muscle building. It is most commonly used after workouts to help increase the levels of amino acids in the blood, which are used by muscles to increase mass. In addition, during exercise, whey allows better flow of nutrients to necessary areas for helping repair and rebuild muscle tissues. This is important for active individuals, persons who exercise, and professional athletes.

Counters fatigue: The body requires higher amounts of branched chain amino acids during and after exercise because they are taken up directly by the skeletal muscles. Low BCAA levels contribute to fatigue and should be replaced within an hour or less following exercise or participation in a competitive event. Many athletes consume a protein-rich beverage both before and immediately after exercise or an event to help repair and rebuild lean muscle tissue.

Protein supplements for weight loss: Whey protein is a key ingredient in numerous weight loss programs and meal replacement products. Studies have found that leucine-rich protein foods, like whey protein promote the formation of lean muscle while helping to reduce body fat and manage weight by promoting satiety or a feeling of fullness.

Promotes health: Whey protein is a protein supplement that helps promote a healthy lifestyle. It can be used to fulfill nutritional needs due to illness, in special cases, or in relation to enhancing fitness activities. Whey protein plays an important role as an antioxidant that helps strengthen the body’s immune system. Whey protein may help regulatory function of T-cells and can also decrease wasting of tissues during illness. This speeds up the overall recovery process of ailing persons.

Cautions: Research indicates that whey protein is an excellent protein choice for individuals of all ages who value the role of a healthy diet in helping to maintain overall health. However, although whey protein promotes a healthy lifestyle, it can have dangerous side effects if taken excessively and by people who are lactose intolerant.