Whey Protein 101
The Benefits of Whey Protein
You don’t have to be a nutrition expert to know this simple fact: protein builds muscle. Protein is one of the essential building blocks to having a strong, healthy body, but all proteins are not created equal. When viewing the wide scope of protein available on the market today, whey protein is a standout as one of the best. Whey has a very high nutritional value, and is a great source of high-quality protein. Let’s take a look at some of the best benefits of whey protein that can help optimize your health and workout routine.
What is Whey?
Whey protein is the protein fraction of whey, the liquid that separates from milk during cheese production. It is a complete, high quality protein that holds all of the essential amino acids that your body needs. Proteins are the building blocks of the body, used to make tendons, organs, and skin, as well as hormones, enzymes, neurotransmitters and various molecules. These proteins are assembled from essential amino acids, which you obtain through your diet. There are a few types of whey protein available: concentrate (WPC), isolate (WPI), and hydrolysate (WPH). WPC is the most common and least expensive type of whey, made into a p
Whey Builds Essential Muscles
As we age, muscle mass naturally declines. This decrease in muscle leads to fat gain and a rise in risk for chronic disease. Whey protein is a great option to help prevent age related muscle loss, while improving strength and creating a better-looking body. Consuming whey protein is a convenient way to add 25-50 g of protein to your daily intake.
It Moderates Sugar
It has been found that whey protein works to increase the release of anabolic hormones that can stimulate muscle growth. One particular hormone that can be stimulated is insulin, a hormone which is produced by the pancreas that allow your body to use sugar from the carbohydrates that you consume for energy or to store that sugar for future use. It also helps to regulate blood sugar. Because of this, whey can help moderate blood sugar, increasing both levels of insulin and sensitivity to its effects.
Fast Absorption
Another stand-out benefit of whey protein compared to other types of protein is the fact that it can be absorbed and utilized very quickly compared to other proteins. It has been found that whey protein is especially effective when consumed directly before, during, or after a workout.
Whey Can Help Reduce High Blood Pressure
Studies have found that those who consume whey protein on a regular basis have reduced blood pressure levels. This was found particularly in those who consumed whey by eating dairy products, which contain a family of bioactive peptides called “ACE inhibitors”. These ACE inhibitors can help to regulate and decrease blood pressure in those with elevated or high blood pressure levels.
Whey is Found to Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural reaction to stress and damage, which can be helpful in the short term. However, long-term inflammation can be a sign of an underlying health issue. Chronic inflammation should be looked at by your doctor or chiropractor. The consumption of whey significantly reduces C-reactive protein (CRP) which is a key marker of inflammation. The consumption of whey can be particularly helpful in reducing the effects of inflammatory bowel disease and other digestive tract disorders.
How do I Choose a Whey Protein?
Just as all proteins are not created equal, not all whey proteins are created equal either. Whey itself isn’t very tasty, which is why the protein is usually flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or other basic flavors. When looking for a whey protein powder, it is essential to look to avoid unhealthy additives like refined sugar, which is why we have developed WHEY by ProFunction. Available to add to your favorite smoothie or mix with water, our pharmaceutical grade formula is designed to help you meet your goals.