The Many Benefits Of Whey Protein

Whey protein is one of the most widely used sport supplements on the market today.  It also happens to be one of the most widely researched supplements because of the amazing effects it has on the human body.  Most who use whey protein are athletes, bodybuilders, and avid exercise enthusiasts who are looking to gain that competitive edge.  However, whey has been shown to have many more uses for the general population.

People who suffer from Cancer, HIV, Immunity disorders, and Obesity might possibly benefit from using this supplement.  Whey not only has essential amino acids for muscle growth and strength, but has been shown to increase immune function, reduce blood pressure, increase HK (killer cells) cells in cancer, and alter body composition by utilizing fat in the muscle.

Whey and casein protein are made from the same product - milk.  One is the curds (casein), and the other is whey.   Whey is much easier to digest and travel through the stomach.  This, passing through the stomach, allows for better breakdown and absorption of protein in the small intestine.  There is a higher amount of amino acids compared to other protein sources.

Whey protein has amazing effects on the body, but you might be wondering about the mechanism behind this.   One of the main essential amino acids found is cysteine.  This amino acid is converted in the cell to glutathione, which is a very potent antioxidant.    Glutathione has the ability to reduce inflammation and tissue damage.  

In the clinical setting, the use of whey is continuing to have strong research support.   Traumatic injury to the body, or surgery, results in a compromised immune system due to higher stressors to the body.   Post-surgery - there is a need for higher levels of protein to help wound healing due to post-surgery immobilization; this leads to a depletion of protein and slower recovery times.

There is extensive research in the use of whey protein in workouts and post-workout meals.  Due to the availability of the high-quality proteins and the blend of essential amino acids, results in potential strength increases, possible lower body fat composition, and even greater hypertrophy of the muscles (muscle gets bigger).  Higher-quality protein helps with increased nitrogen utilization than lower-quality proteins.  In most research, groups supplemented with whey protein, demonstrated lower body fat percentages than control groups.

The higher the intensity of the workout, the higher chance you have of damaging muscles with oxidative stress.  This leads to an increase in free radicals, which weaken the immune system.  Glutathione (GSH), having that great antioxidant capability, reduces the stress to the immune system from intense workouts.  

Whey protein has other great qualities and is being further researched for supplementation in clinical settings.   Not only does whey protein have tremendous health benefits, it may alter serotonin levels in the brain, leading to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction.

Don't be afraid of consuming protein, and particularly whey protein, because there are numerous health benefits in relation to consuming whey protein. 

NEXT: 51 Protein Pack Recipes For You To Enjoy >>

NEXT: Find Out The Many Benefits Of Whey Protein >>

CONSUMER ALERT: Not All Protein Powders Are Created With Safe Ingredients. Do Not Consume Any Whey Protein Until You Read This Completely

Reference:

Marshall, K.  Therapeutic Applications of Whey Protein.  Alternative Medicine. Vol. 9;2 pp. 136-156.

Bounous G, Gervais F, Amer V, Batist, G, Gold P, The influence of Dietary Whey Protein on Tissue Glutathione and the Disease of Aging. Clin Invest Med, 12:154-61. 1989