Whey protein is a by-product of manufacturing cheese. Milk caseins and water are removed, leaving whey protein powder, the most absorbable and easily digested protein available. Since milk caseins are responsible for most milk allergies, whey protein can be a good alternative protein source for people sensitive to dairy or lactose.
Whey protein has been found to help slow the absorption of sugar, decrease appetite, and stabilize insulin production. It increases the production of cholecystokinin and glucagon-like peptide-1, two appetite suppressing hormones in the body. It can help stabilize other hormones, aiding in weight loss, mood disorders, and metabolism. Whey protein helps people that exercise fight low glutathione levels, which is a problem that causes athletes to have lowered immunity.
Whey protein is popular with body builders and athletes, because it is quickly absorbed. It is the most complete, most absorbable form of protein, and is usually used immediately after exercise to build muscle or to replace meals. To build muscle, your body must be constantly tearing down and rebuilding muscle cells. Many athletes are not interested in eating a lot of steak, eggs or peanut butter to get the proteins that they need, because these things contain so much cholesterol, fat and calories.
Whey protein is often recommended for cancer patients because of its high levels of cysteine. Cysteine is an amino acid that raises glutathione levels. This boosts immunity in a lot of ways that help cancer patients recover from treatment and lower their chances of recurrence. It is sometimes the only protein that they can tolerate after radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Using whey protein as a supplement can help reduce bone and muscle loss, while boosting immunity and fostering faster recoveries. Whey protein can also stimulate T-cell activity, further benefiting the immune system.
Whey protein is also often recommended to the elderly. Studies have shown that when taken in the right amounts, it helps maintain muscle and bone density in old age. Your body uses calcium to dispose of excess protein, so taking a calcium supplement can help you avoid bone loss if you get too much protein. Whey protein helps cells to turn over and renew themselves more quickly, promoting faster healing and more protection for cells that are vulnerable to the effects of aging.
Whey protein possesses many nutritional benefits, but should be taken with caution. Your liver has to process the excess protein, and it does so by converting it into cholesterol and sugar. Additionally, too much protein can cause constipation, leading to other health concerns. It is a good idea to start out conservatively when you supplement with whey protein. If you experience constipation, cut back to an amount that works well with your body. Dosage can be a highly individualized calculation, so pay attention to your body, drink lots of fluid, and don’t get overzealous with your supplementation. Remember that exercise is necessary to build muscle and lose fat. Just about any protein that you eat will be converted to fat and cholesterol if you are not exercising regularly.
There are many things to consider when you buy vitamins and supplements. Speak with your doctor before you start a protein supplementation program. Whey protein is only recommended as part of a healthy diet and exercise program. Consuming copious amounts of protein can cause liver and/or kidney damage, so be mindful of what your body is telling you. You should contact your doctor and/or cut back on your dosage if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort or excessive urination, because these can be signs of ingesting too much protein.
About the Author: Phil Le Breton, the owner at Wholesale Nutrition, has a strong interest in helping people achieve greater brain and body health with vitamins and supplements. Wholesale Nutrition has the best vitamin C powder on the market (C-Salts). Visit http://www.nutri.com to buy vitamins or buy supplements of the highest quality.
