| Whey protein is not something new, but during the last 15-20 years the value of whey protein has become more widely known, especially in sports nutrition. And even more recently it has become a very important ingredient in formulas for weight loss, infants, and immune system support.
Whey protein concentrate contains less protein and more lactose and fat than the isolate.
Whey protein has long been thought of as a product body builders used because of its ability to build muscle tissue quickly and efficiently. Researchers are now beginning to study the benefits of whey protein as a food that may have a beneficial effect on both the body and the mind.
Whey protein contains high tryptophan levels, which was found to increase serotonin levels and serotonin is needed to deal more effectively with stress. Significant improvement in memory was observed in stress-vulnerable subjects. Interestingly those who don’t suffer from stress showed no improvement. Therefore, whey protein may prove beneficial for those of us who have a lot of stressful activities in our lives. Who couldn’t benefit from a better memory?
Whey protein is also being studied for its effects on weight loss. The conclusion has been reached that what you eat before a workout has a definite effect on what your body uses for energy during the workout. Studies with rats showed that those who were fed whey protein before being exercised showed an increase in muscle mass where the group that was fed glucose or whole milk protein also had a weight gain, but it was body fat. Only the rats getting the whey before their workout increased muscle mass and decreased body fat. The researchers theorized this was due to whey’s ability to rapidly deliver amino acids during exercise. Whey protein may be very near the top of the list as an effective tool in weight management. Here are some reasons why:
- The body requires more energy to digest protein than other foods so you burn more calories.
- Whey protein isolate is pure protein with little or no fat or carbohydrates.
- Recent studies by Dr. Donald Layman, a professor at the University of Illinois, have proven the need for the essential amino acid leucine in improving body composition. High quality whey protein is rich in leucine which helps preserve lean muscle tissue while promoting fat loss.
- Protein helps to stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This reduces hunger by lowering insulin levels and making it easier to burn fat.
- Adding whey protein to a mid-day snack may help control food intake at the next meal because of the appetite-suppressants whey stimulates.
Whey protein has been shown to be helpful in many other health related conditions:
- Cancer – whey protein has been shown through animal and in vitro studies to inhibit the growth of several types of cancer tumors
- Infant nutrition – whey protein contains many of the same components found in human breast milk
- Healthy Ageing – may help keep bones and muscles healthy and strong
In conclusion, whey protein is definitely a product you will want to consider if you are on a diet to lose weight or to simply maintain a healthy body weight. Its disease fighting properties are just beginning to
be investigated, but adverse effects seem to be few, so including whey protein in your diet may make good sense for a lot of reasons.
Whey protein is found in many meal replacement drink powders and mixes smoothly and completely with a spoon or shaker. It is available in many flavors and tastes delicious. Whey protein is becoming a valuable tool in maintaining good health.
Biochem Sports 100% Whey Protein Powder Vanilla -- 27.8 oz (1.7 lbs) |