What’s Whey Protein?

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Whey protein isolate is a highly concentrated form of protein that is easily digested and absorbed for muscle building. It contains all essential amino acids and is a rich source of branched-chain amino acids, which can increase muscle mass. Whey protein also promotes better blood flow and nutrient transport to muscle tissues. It may reduce the risk of cancer and increase immune activity. However, too much protein can overtax the liver and kidneys, and lactose intolerant people may still have problems with it.

Whey protein refers to the protein globules suspended in whey, the liquid that remains after the curdled milk is filtered. The whey solution consists of vitamins, minerals, lactose, protein, and small amounts of fat. Processing the whey to remove sugars and fats leaves the whey protein solution highly concentrated. One of the three main forms of whey protein, whey protein isolate contains more than 90 percent milk protein. Protein derived from whey protein isolate is one of the most biologically available sources of amino acids, as it is easily digested, absorbed and assimilated for muscle building.

Protein is a dietary component that performs a number of vital functions in the body, including repairing body cells, building and repairing muscle and bone, energy production, and metabolic control. This is a natural, complete protein, with all the essential amino acids required by the body. It is also the richest source of branched-chain amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine. During and after exercise, BCAAs are directly absorbed into skeletal muscles instead of being metabolized in the liver, ultimately increasing muscle mass. Additionally, during exercise, whey helps dilate blood vessels to promote better blood flow and nutrient transport to muscle tissues.

Leucine plays a key role in starting the protein synthesis pathway. When the diet includes large amounts of leucine, such as whey protein isolate supplementation, rapid protein production speeds recovery and acclimatization to physical stress or exercise. Additionally, a large amount of whey protein increases cellular glutathione, an antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage and toxins. Some animal studies suggest that whey proteins potentially reduce the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer. They also increase the immune activity of T cells in the blood.

Whey protein supplements contain not only a high concentration of branched-chain amino acids, but also the correct ratio of the other amino acids. Eating a complete and balanced protein results in better nitrogen retention, beneficial for bodybuilding. A positive nitrogen balance can be achieved by consuming approximately 2.2 grams (0.078 ounces) of protein per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight each day. Nutritionists recommend that the daily amount of protein in the diet be spread over four to six small meals per day. As a supplement, whey protein isolate is typically mixed into 8 fluid ounces (0.24 liters) of cold water, skim milk, or other beverage.

There are few side effects associated with whey protein supplementation. However, too much protein in the diet can overtax the liver and kidneys. Although the gram per pound of body weight applies to bodybuilders and extreme athletes, those who don’t actively participate in strenuous exercise should take less. Lactose intolerant people may still have problems with whey protein isolate, even though the isolate only contains about one percent lactose.




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