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Protein comes in many different forms and whey is one of the best proteins you can find. Containing a wide range of amino acids that are easy to absorb, whey protein has numerous health benefits which have been proven by research over time. Considering the number of nutrients it possesses, it is no surprise that this magical product is considered one of the best supplements in the world.
What exactly is Whey Protein and how is it made?
Whey is basically the watery proportion of milk which separates itself when cheese is produced – the fatty portion of milk thickens and comes together in the form of cheese while the whey remains. The blend of proteins extracted from whey after going through several steps of processing is then referred to as whey protein.
Whey protein does not really have a taste of its own, and you will often find it being sold in flavors such as chocolate, strawberry or vanilla. It is processed into powdered form so that it can be easily added to meals and shakes, providing a convenient solution to those wishing to increase their daily protein intake such as athletes, bodybuilders or anyone else who needs to add more protein to their diet.
Most varieties of whey protein being sold in the market taste great and can significantly enhance the flavor of your smoothies or milkshakes. However, make sure to check the ingredients for high amounts of unhealthy additives such as sugar and choose healthier products, where possible.
Now that we know what whey protein is, let’s take a look at how this product can be extremely beneficial for your health:
Strengthens the Digestive System
Effective functioning of the digestive system is essential for a person’s wellbeing. When the digestive system is working effectively, your body is able to break down the food you eat, extract all of the nutrients and remove any toxins from your system.
Being a prebiotic, whey protein promotes the growth of good bacteria in the digestive system and as a result, reduces the risk of intestinal diseases. If you are looking for a healthy whey protein option that is free from added sugars, fillers and carbs, unflavored protein from opportuniteas is a great option to check out.
Great source of Protein
Whey contains all the essential amino acids, making it a high-quality source of protein. It is also a lot easier to digest compared to other proteins.
Protein is a vital nutrient our body needs in order to function properly and not getting enough of it can have severe consequences. For example, protein deficiency reduces your metabolism and muscle mass and is likely to result in hair loss and patchy skin. It is also likely to weaken your immune system making you more vulnerable to diseases and health problems.
Whey protein is an excellent supplement to fill any nutritional gaps in your diet and ensure you are getting the right amount of protein.
Aids Muscle Growth
Muscle mass and strength tend to decline as we get older. However, it is possible to prevent this change from taking place or at the very least, slow it down by consuming a protein-rich diet and engaging in strength training.
Whey is considered as an effective protein for this purpose as it is rich in leucine – the amino acid known for its growth-promoting properties. Whey prevents muscle loss due to ageing and improves overall strength, resulting in better body composition.
Additionally, there are numerous studies to prove that whey promotes muscle growth, when combined with weight-lifting.
Helps with Weight Loss
It is a well-known fact that most weight-loss plans involve increasing a person’s consumption of proteins. This is because proteins reduce a person’s appetite, resulting in fewer cravings and less consumption of unhealthy foods and consequently, reduced calorie intake. They also boost metabolism and help burn calories.
Whey protein is particularly effective when used as part of a weight-loss plan. It helps ensure your daily protein requirements are met while maintaining your muscles, even as you shed those extra pounds.
Keeps Your Blood Sugar in Check
According to research, whey protein helps keep blood sugar in check for patients suffering from diabetes. An experiment was carried out where a group of individuals with type 2 diabetes were given a high-carbohydrate breakfast with whey protein. The results showed that glucose levels were 28% lower and the insulin response 105% higher as a result of consuming whey protein. As a result, it was concluded that whey protein can be effective in managing blood sugar levels of those with diabetes.
Reduces Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension is considered a serious medical condition because it can lead to heart diseases. The use of dairy products, in general, is known to reduce blood pressure.
Whey protein, being a dairy product, is made up of lactokine, a bioactive peptide used to treat high blood pressure and improve cardiovascular condition. For patients suffering from hypertension, whey protein can significantly reduce blood pressure and lower their risk of heart diseases and strokes.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
High levels of LDL cholesterol, often known as ‘bad’ cholesterol among the common men, are considered a major health problem due to their ability to cause heart diseases and strokes.
A study was carried out where 70 overweight individuals (both men and women) were given casein, glucose or whey protein supplements for 12 weeks. Those on whey experienced the most significant reduction in their LDL levels at the end of the experiment, compared to the other two groups, proving that whey protein is effective in lowering cholesterol levels in overweight individuals.
To sum up, whey protein definitely has a wide range of health benefits which have been proven by studies over time. Whether you need to add more protein to your diet or are planning to use it to build muscle as part of your workout routine, whey protein can help with a lot of things. It is also considered very safe, causing no side effects for most people. So, do give it a try after consulting with your doctor – the results will surprise you.
