You might have seen regular gym-goers downing a glass of whey protein shake after their gym session. Fitness enthusiasts seem to swear by the muscle-building effect of this protein powder. It has been shown that taking protein supplements induces muscle protein synthesis. But what exactly do whey protein supplements do to your body?
Well, whey protein refers to a set of eight proteins that are naturally present in milk. These proteins are:
- Beta-lactoglobulin
- Alpha-lactalbumin
- Glycomacropeptide
- Immunoglobulins
- Bovine serum albumin
- Lactoferrin
- Lactoperoxidase
- Lysozyme
When cheese is produced, some enzymes are added to the milk. These enzymes curdle the milk, and they separate the liquid whey from solid curds. The curds contain the fat of the milk. These curds are the primary ingredient in cheese. When the curds are removed, the liquid whey remains. This whey has different amounts of milk sugar, which is also called lactose and fat. This pasteurized whey has no bacteria in it. It is then dried, and we get whey protein in the form that you see it.
Kinds of Whey Protein Supplements
Leading supplement Manufacturers Australia tell us that after whey protein dries, it undergoes yet another process. This process turns it into one of the three kinds as mentioned below:
- Whey protein concentrate – Whey protein concentrate differs significantly in its lactose, protein, and fat content. It is a very common type of whey protein that is found in many products like protein drinks and bars.
- Whey protein isolate – This protein supplement is very high in protein and extremely low in lactose or fat. You can easily see it on the nutritional label of protein supplements like protein bars. People who are lactose intolerant should opt for this kind of supplement as it is very low in lactose. However, if you suffer from a milk allergy, you need to stay away entirely from these protein types.
- Whey protein hydrolysate – You can see it by the name of hydrolyzed whey protein. This type of whey protein is extremely gentle on your digestive system. It is because peptides, which are long protein chains, are broken down into shorter ones. This type of protein is also present in many medical supplements. Check out this BSC whey protein powder to get more info about it.
What Are the Benefits of Protein Powders?
- Great for muscle building – Your muscles love protein. Branched-chain amino acids, a particular type of amino acid that assists in muscle building, are what aid a person’s muscle-building process.
- Speedy healing – Whey protein consists of many amino acids. These amino acids repair a person’s skin and tissues from any type of wounds and damage.
- Aids in weight gain and fulfils protein requirement – Individuals required to gain weight can also benefit from consuming whey protein designed to increase weight. Many people who have been through a chronic illness and need more nutrition are also advised to add whey protein to their diet. For an average individual, whey protein fulfils their protein requirements that they cannot meet from their diet alone.
The amino acids in whey are crucial for various bodily functions. Although a human body can make several amino acids, it cannot make the essential ones by itself. It is essential to consume essential amino acids from your diet. Thus, consuming whey protein is a great way to get those crucial amino acids for your body.