The Benefits Of Adding Whey Protein Into Your Diet!

When it comes to supplements, only very few have managed to convince gym goers, bodybuilders, and the like with their benefits. Whey protein is one among those supplements, and has been a favorite among fitness enthusiasts for several years now. There is every chance for you to have used whey protein at least once in your life, at least in a smoothie. Or, even if you have been taking it for a long time, as part of your fitness lifecycle, how many of you really know what it is and how it can benefit you?

What is Whey Protein?

Whey protein is derived from milk, which basically contains two primary types of protein: casein and whey. Whey is what is left behind when you strain out the curds from liquid milk for yogurt or cheese. Once whey is separated from milk during the production of cheese or yogurt, whey is then processed in different steps to generate a powder, which is how it is widely recognized as whey protein. This power is used in protein bars, smoothies, and shakes, as an effective way to improve physique, better athletic performance, and also to address protein deficiencies and malnutrition.

Benefits of Adding Whey Protein to Your Diet

Whey is a Complete Protein

Whey protein consists of all essential amino acids and is considered to a high quality and comprehensive protein. The biological value of this protein is relatively high, mainly because of the fact that the amino acid content in it can be used by your body more efficiently and is also easily digestible than any other type of protein.

Improved Muscle Function

It is widely known that practicing a combination of regular strength training and well-balanced diet can help slow down or prevent muscle mass reduction in aging adults. For this, what is important is to include high-protein foods in your diet, such as whey. Research also suggests that consumption of whey after strength training can lead to improved muscle function and reduce muscle recovery time.

Reduced Hunger

Protein, in general, is known to trigger weight loss, due to its ability to improve satiety – the fullness you feel after a meal. As a result, your desire to eat and even your cravings will reduce significantly. When compared to other protein types, like soy and casein, the satiating effect of whey seems to be way higher. Hence, whey protein could be useful for you to reduce your calories intake and reduce weight.

Whey Protein Types

Whey protein is categorized into different types based on its processing technique.

- Concentrate: Found naturally in whey, this type contains between 70 and 80 percent protein, has good flavor, is the least expensive of all, and is known to be the best type of whey protein.
- Isolate: This whey protein type has a minimum of 90% protein, and doesn’t comprise of many nutrients that are otherwise found in whey protein concentrate.
- Hydrolysate: Also called whey hydrolysate, this is pre-digested to make absorption of the same easier and quicker.