Whey protein usually conjures up images of someone in the gym building muscle and downing a chocolate milkshake in the recovery phase of their workout, but whey protein is useful for so much more than muscle-building and intense workout regimens.
The benefits of whey protein are universal and may prove advantageous to men and women of all ages from various backgrounds.
What is Whey Protein?
Whey protein is available in most dairy products; however, it is the by-product of curdled milk that is strained to make cheese. As the liquid evaporates, a whey protein powder emerges. This protein contains all of the vital amino acids our body needs and is naturally absorbed to support performance. We typically see whey protein in the form of a powder which makes it easy to consume because we can add it to our shakes or sprinkle it on our food.
Whey Protein Health Benefits
As mentioned, whey protein has been shown to benefit the human body in a variety of ways. Researchers are continuing to uncover therapeutic uses for whey protein that not only benefit the young and active but will eventually benefit those with pre-existing conditions or older adults with chronic illnesses.
Here are reasons you should add whey protein to your dietary regimen.
Increases Performance and Strength
You may be most familiar with the power whey protein delivers to athletes, enhancing their strength and boosting performance. We know that to gain muscle, you must increase your protein intake. For this reason, we often see the athletically-inclined and gym bodies drinking protein shakes.
Protein supplements like whey powder are incredibly useful in helping you to gain muscle mass. Also, whey protein can support the recovery phase of your muscles in the period immediately following your workout.
Finally, whey protein may help in preventing age-related muscle loss. As we age, our body begins to betray us with muscle loss progression. This muscle loss leaves us vulnerable to experiencing weakness in certain parts of the body that makes us more prone or at risk for falls. In addition to participating in weight-bearing exercises and healthy eating, adding whey protein to your diet can help to slow the progress of weakening muscles.
Supports Blood Pressure Control
Whey protein can help to lower blood pressure which is vital to reducing the risk for heart and kidney disease as well as stroke. According to Harvard Health, a study published in the 2016 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, after consuming 56 grams per day of whey protein, a 3-point drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number) and a 2-point drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) occurred, demonstrating an overall improvement in blood vessel function throughout the body.
Promotes Healing of Wounds
Proteins are essential for wound healing, or the healing process can take longer. Research demonstrates that whey protein may prove beneficial to people recovering from a burn or wound thanks in part to its capacity to improve the inflammatory response throughout our body.
Promotes Healing of Wounds
Proteins are essential for wound healing, or the healing process can take longer. Research demonstrates that whey protein may prove beneficial to people recovering from a burn or wound thanks in part to its capacity to improve the inflammatory response throughout our body.
Improves Immunity
Whey protein contains amino acids that contribute to stimulating our immune response which is vital in people with conditions that may predispose them to illness. Whey proteins help to regulate the immune function within our bodies by increasing the production of glutathione (GSH) production. GSH plays a pivotal role in our body’s antioxidant defense system, regulating the overall immune response.
Lowers Cholesterol
Consumption of whey protein can help to reduce the bad cholesterol and raise the good according to the research. This asset helps to reduce our chances of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke.
Allergies and Eczema
Research demonstrates that babies who drink whey protein during their first three to twelve months of life are at a lesser risk for developing symptoms like redness or itchy skin that we associate with eczema.
Control Weight Loss
Whey protein may help to control weight loss in people who have HIV/AIDS and increase weight loss in otherwise healthy people seeking to shed pounds. Whey protein helps to improve your metabolic function and control your appetite. Research also demonstrates that it can help you to change your body composition. You may be envisioning bulk as the shift in your body composition.
However, whey protein does not necessarily lead to bulk. How you choose to use whey –whether as a supplement or replacement may determine how it impacts your body.
Revitalize Your Metabolism
Whey protein can aid in helping your body navigate the glycemic index that fluctuates depending on your dietary habits. Research shows that whey protein can assist in balancing your blood sugar and improving your overall insulin function.
Adverse Effects of Whey
Of course, like any natural or human-made substance, whey protein is not without its risks. For example, some people who have dairy allergies may also be allergic to whey protein. Although this substance may not
frequently generate negative symptoms and is for the most part safe for children and adults, there are still a few that you should keep an eye out for which include:
- Nausea
- Cramps
- Stomach pains
- Headaches
- Poor appetite
- Acne outbreaks
- Frequent bowel movements
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Thirst
If you experience any of these symptoms, you may need to stop consuming this product.
How to Use Whey Protein
Your level of activity and goals may drive your whey protein consumption. There are dozens of products in the marketplace like Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey that suggest you can consume whey at any time as a snack, meal replacement or post-workout for recovery.
You can add whey protein to your meals, smoothie, muffin mix or use it to make a delicious shake or pudding.
In summary, whey protein can offer you a wealth of health benefits. Not only does it enhance athletic and muscle performance but it can help to lower cholesterol, promote wound healing and enable you to control your weight effectively. There is
more than one way to consume whey protein so do not be afraid to mix things up
from time to time.
