Proteins are compounds that are made of one or more than one polypeptides. Polypeptides are linear polymer chains of amino acids that are held together by peptide bonds. Amino acids are essential for muscle building. The absence of amino acids in the body will deteriorate the process of recovery from any kind of muscle tissue damage that is caused by heavy workouts. Proteins contain different types of amino acids – there are several benefits that they offer.
What is Whey Protein?
You must have seen several protein supplements in the market. So, what is whey protein? Whey protein is one of the most popular protein supplements that are available now. It is a very good quality protein, which is derived from cow’s milk. It is used by those who workout a lot for bodybuilding, as dietary supplements. Just like other supplements, this also has its own benefits as well as side-effects. But, before getting to know about them, you must be aware about what is whey protein.
Whey is actually derived from milk. It is the liquid that remains after the first few stages of cheese making. Earlier, whey was regarded as a waste product, which would be dumped into lakes or fields. However, it was revealed, that whey actually contained high quality proteins. Methods such as acid treatment and drying in high temperatures were devised to obtain this protein, but they ruined it. Newer methods were subsequently developed to maintain the protein quality after extraction.
When you purchase whey protein from the market, always check to see the methods that have been used for extraction. Some of the low cost proteins use cheap methods, like drying or acid treatment. This does not help.
But, what is whey protein, structurally? You now know that whey protein is derived from cow’s milk. Milk has two protein types, namely whey protein and casein. These two types are available in 80:20 ratios. Whey protein’s a mixture that is made with globular proteins that are kept out from whey. The casein and some of the fat from milk are used for cheese making. Special filters are applied for separating the protein from liquid whey that has been left out. This liquid in concentrated form is then concentrated even more to obtain it in the pure form. Thereafter, it is dried before packing and sold as a protein supplement.
Whey Protein Benefits
- Whey protein facilitates protein synthesis in the body thereby accelerating recovery from stress.
- Studies have indicated that few forms of milk protein may reduce cancer risk.
- Whey protein serves as an antioxidant that enhances the immunity of the human body.
- Whey protein also helps in weight loss.
Whey Protein Side Effects
- Many people are lactose intolerant and cannot consume milk products. If they consume whey protein, they may develop allergies.
- Whey protein may also affect the kidney and liver functions. When taken in excessive quantities, it may lead to osteoporosis.
Now, that you know what is whey protein, you must also know who should consume it. Whey protein is needed by those who are very active, and also those who workout a lot, such as athletes or bodybuilders.
Posted by : Plernpit
Posted on : Sunday, August 7th, 2011 at 3:35 pm
Tags: Whey Protein
Most Recent Articles from the Supplements Reviews Category:
» Learn About The Foods High In Protein
» C Reactive Protein – Everything You Wanted To Know
» How Does Slim Fast Work – Slim Fast Reviews