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What is Whey Protein?

Whey protein is a high quality protein processed from cow's milk. Whey protein is used as dietary supplement (as protein supplement), mostly for those who exercise a lot to build body muscles (body builders) and those who go on diet to lose weight (dieters). As with the case of any other dietary supplement, whey protein too has its benefits and side effects.

What is Whey Protein Made From?

As mentioned earlier, whey protein is a high quality protein supplement derived from cow's milk. Milk contains two types of proteins- Casein and Whey Protein in the ratio of 80:20 respectively. Technically speaking, whey protein is a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey, the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. The casein (or curd) and a portion of the milk-fat are churned out to make cheese. Many specialty filters are used to separate whey protein from the remaining liquid whey. The concentrated liquid is then further concentrated to get pure whey protein. It is then dried and packed to be sold as whey protein powder.
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Benefits of Whey Proten

As whey protein is a high quality, complete natural protein, with all the essential amino acids, it is considered the richest known source of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine). Therefore, it is recommended for active individuals and people who need to improve their overall health due to its many benefits.

• Whey protein stimulates protein synthesis that speeds up recovery and adaptation to stress.
• Considerable amounts of whey protein can increase cellular glutathione levels. Glutathione is an antioxidant responsible for defending the body against free radical damage and toxins.
• Some studies in animals have suggested that milk proteins might reduce the risk of cancer. Whey protein is essentially a milk protein.
• Whey protein plays an important role as an antioxidant to help increase body immune system.
• Consistent whey protein intake combined with exercise lead to consistent muscle building.
• Whey protein might help T-cell activity and can also decrease wasting tissue.

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Whey Protein and Weight Loss

Whey protein also aids in weight loss. Protein balances blood sugar levels, while carbohydrates cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate. When the blood sugar level is balanced, dieting persons do not get tempted to eat often and thus lose fat.

Who Needs Whey Protein?

Protein is a significant nutrient required by all on a daily basis. Made up of essential and non-essential amino acids, proteins are the "building blocks" for a healthy body. Protein repairs body cells, builds and also repairs muscles and bones, is a source of energy and controls many important body processes related to metabolism. Protein needs vary from person to person according to age, weight, sex, activity level and overall health. Many people like athletes, body builders, people with special medical needs, dieters etc. need more protein than a normal individual needs. Whey protein that is a pure protein supplement fulfills the requirement of such people for supporting the wear and tear of body muscles, bones and overall health.

Side Effects of Whey Protein

Although whey protein is one of the most excellent forms of protein, it can have dangerous side effects if taken excessively and even in normal situations like for people who are lactose intolerant.

• Many people cannot tolerate milk or other dairy products that contain lactose. These people have what is called lactose intolerance. Such lactose intolerant people may develop allergic reactions after having whey protein which is made from milk. However, two forms of this protein- whey protein isolates and hydrolysates- are processed to remove the fat, and lactose and therefore they might not cause allergy to such people who can't tolerate milk products.
• Whey protein consumed in very high quantities can affect kidney functions negatively.
• Extremely high doses of whey protein exerts unbearable pressure on liver and may lead to liver damage.
• Again, if whey protein is taken excessively, it can lead to an imbalance of minerals in the bones causing loss of bone mineral density. This can result into osteoporosis.

Thus, excessive whey protein intake should be avoided to keep its side effects at bay. Generally, it is recommended to take about 1 gram of protein (or a little less) per pound of one's body weight. Training athletes may consume 25 grams of whey protein per day. Bodybuilders who want some serious body muscle gains may consume 150 grams per day but only if they exercise heavily.

Who Needs Whey Protein?

Protein is a significant nutrient required by all on a daily basis. Made up of essential and non-essential amino acids, proteins are the "building blocks" for a healthy body. Protein repairs body cells, builds and also repairs muscles and bones, is a source of energy and controls many important body processes related to metabolism. Protein needs vary from person to person according to age, weight, sex, activity level and overall health. Many people like athletes, body builders, people with special medical needs, dieters etc. need more protein than a normal individual needs. Whey protein that is a pure protein supplement fulfills the requirement of such people for supporting the wear and tear of body muscles, bones and overall health.