A Whey To Put More Protein In Your Diet

Among the crowd of containers on the protein supplement shelf of your favorite store you will find whey protein powder. Used as directed it is considered a generally safe way to increase protein intake.

Whey is one of two primary types of proteins found in cow’s milk (the other is casein). During the cheese making process, liquid whey – a byproduct containing proteins, lactose, fat, salts, and water – is drawn off and isolated. The protein can be filtered from the liquid and transformed into powder.

Why Choose Whey

A fantastic thing about whey protein is that it supplies all 20 of the amino acids humans require, including nine essential ones the body cannot produce. It is also highly digestible, more than beef protein, and is absorbed into the blood stream faster than other protein types.

The fast absorption of whey protein is beneficial because it creates a sizable concentration of amino acids in our blood. Having this big supply of amino acids available speeds up protein synthesis—the building and healing of muscle tissue.

Other benefits of whey protein:

• it helps prevent certain allergies in some children.
• it may reduce short-term food consumption by suppressing the appetite.
• it is low in sugar, and may help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
• it may help maintain good blood pressure and cardiovascular health.

Eating a protein rich diet can also benefit the “wheyst-line.” Proteins digest slowly so people tend to feel satisfied longer after a protein heavy meal—and may snack less. Whey powder is easily added to many foods such as soups, yogurt, cereals, and casseroles.

Common Sense Cautions

It is possible that lactose intolerant people could develop an allergic reaction to whey, since it is made from milk. Taking an excess of whey protein could cause unpleasant side effects. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should talk to their doctor before starting on any supplement.

If you are being treated for an eating disorder, on a supervised diet, or use other prescription medications, consult with your doctor or dietician before adding whey protein to your daily regimen.

Source: Mayo Clinic
Photo credit: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture – flickr