Milk is mainly made of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey protein can be easily separated from the casein in milk or formed as a by-product of cheese making. Whey protein is considered to be a complete protein as it contains all nine essential amino acids and is low in lactose content.
There are several benefits linked with the consumption of whey protein, and researchers are always finding new possible treatment properties.
Fast Facts on Whey Protein
- Many of the advantages of whey protein are based on single studies, and more evidence is necessary to make a definitive judgment.
- Whey protein is a mixture of beta-lactoglobulin, bovine serum albumin, alpha-lactalbumin, and immunoglobulins.
- Possible benefits are weight loss and lowering cholesterol.
- Possible dangers include headaches and nausea, but at moderate doses, this protein is not considered harmful.
Advantages of Whey Protein:
Aids Weight Loss
People using whey protein regularly showed significant loss in their weight while compared to people who did not take whey protein. They lost more body fat and showed great preservation of lean muscle compared to other consumers.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Studies showed promising results for the use of whey protein concentrate in the treatment of cancer, although more reached is required to determine the cause.
Lowers Cholesterol
In a study done on a group of overweight men and women, whey protein was given to them for a period of 70 days, and several parameters were measured, such as insulin and lipid levels. The results showed a significant reduction in the total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels when compared to the group that was given casein.
Asthma
Whey protein is said to improve the immune response in children suffering from asthma. It is found that asthma child patients supplemented with 10 grams of whey protein two times a day every day for a period of 30 days showed an improved response in their immune system.
Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Diseases
Studies found that beverages or drinks supplemented with whey protein considerably reduced blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension and also lowered their risk of developing a stroke or other heart diseases.
Reduces Weight Loss in People with HIV
Whey protein, according to studies, is said to help in reducing irregular weight loss in HIV-positive patients. Check the whey protein price online to get it at a better price.
Types of Whey Protein
There are three fundamental types of whey protein:
- whey protein concentrate (WPC),
- whey protein hydrolysate (WPH), and
- whey protein isolate (WPI).
Whey Protein Concentrate(WPC): This type contains low levels of fat as well as carbohydrates. The percentage of protein in this type depends on the level of its concentration. While the lower end concentrates tend to have 30 percent protein, higher-end concentrates have up to 90 percent.
Whey Protein Isolate(WPI): WPIs are processed further to remove all the fat and lactose. It is generally at least 90 percent protein.
Whey Protein Hydrolysate(WPH): It is considered to be the “predigested” form of whey protein as it already has undergone partial hydrolysis, which is a process important for the body to absorb protein. This type does not require as much digestion as the other two types of whey protein.
Additionally, it is commonly used in infant formulas and medical protein supplements because of its improved digestibility and reduced allergen potential. Probiotic supplements are also a great option that you can consider if your body has low levels of essential probiotics.