What are Whey Proteins

Whey proteins are high quality proteins that come from milk. There are two main proteins in milk: casein and whey. Whey is derived from the process where milk is turned into cheese-the liquid whey is separated from the casein protein. It contains lactose, protein, ash and lipids.

Whey typically comes in three major forms: concentrate, isolate and hydrolysate. Whey protein concentrates contains a low level of fat and cholesterol, but generally has higher levels of bioactive compounds, and carbohydrates in the form of lactose—they are 29%-89% protein by weight. Isolates are processed to remove the fat, and lactose, yet are usually lower in bioactive compounds as well—they are 90%+protein by weight. Hydrolysates are predigested, partially hydrolyzed whey proteins which consequently are more easily absorbed, but their cost is generally higher.

Brief History

Whey concentrates contains high levels of both essential and non-essential amino acids. Amino acids are commonly referred to as the building blocks of life, which combine to form proteins. Whey is broken down in the stomach, before it passes into the small intestines where it is absorbed. It is broken down very quickly, flooding your bloodstream with nitrogen-rich amino acids, and makes up nearly every tissue and organ in the body. This is essential for optimal health.

Therefore, adding whey to the diet may help to repair injuries, may help metabolism, and may help to improve overall general health. Whey is the best source of protein after your workout, because it kick-starts your recovery. With regards to the three primary nutrients (protein, carbohydrates and fat), protein is the only nutrient that we are unable to live without. The body needs a constant supply of this nutrient to build and repair living tissue.

Uses of Whey Protein

Out of all the main bodybuilding supplements availble; whey protein powder is commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes desiring to accelerate muscle development and aid in recovery. However, some individuals with suppressed/abnormal immune systems and/or degenerative diseases use undenatured bioactive whey, to increase their antioxidant levels. Studies have shown that whey protein can increase the amount of glutathione in the blood. Glutathione is an antioxidant, which is very important to a healthy immune system. Persons with HIV and the elderly have decreased glutathione levels and also weakened immune systems. This is why whey protein has become of interest in immune-suppressed populations.

Whey Protein Mixes

Whey Protein concentrates are high in lactalbumin, minerals and vitamins. WPC have been used in a wide range of food products such as dairy foods, egg white replacements, drinks, imitation seafood and meat products. It is also added to infant formula to more closely imitate human milk.

Examples of commercial whey proteins include those available in most health food stores and supermarket health sections; they typically consist of isolate/concentrate or isolate/concentrate/hydrolysate mixtures and they are usually flavored, so that they can be mixed with water or milk and consumed as a drink or shake. There are lots of flavors to choose from, such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, coffee, etc. and fruits can be added to enhance flavor and additional health benefits. For any individual who has an allergy or low tolerance to milk/dairy products, these supplements are available lactose free.

Lactose Free Protein Powders

Like 50% of the world, I am lactose intolerant. Finding a protein powder was difficult at first,but not impossible. Dymatize, Optimum Whey and Isopure are the products that work best for me. Whey protein isolates are lactose free and when other brands contain enzymes they will help to break down and digest the lactose without causing bloating, gas and/or stomach discomfort. Egg proteins are also lactose free.

Whether you are a bodybuilder, athlete, dieter or actively seeking a healthy lifestyle, Whey protein offers benefits to everyone, and there are plenty of tools to assist you in choosing the best products for your specific needs.