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Support lean muscle mass
Whey Protein Background and Benefits
A byproduct of the cheese making process, whey protein is considered a complete protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids that cannot be made by the human body. It is made from the globular proteins in whey, which is the liquid left over when milk curdles and is strained to collect the caseins, or solids, which are aged to become cheese.
Whey protein is the collection of globular proteins isolated from whey, and is low in lactose, since most of milk’s lactose is contained in the caseins.
A mix of beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin and immunoglobulins, whey protein helps support the healthy growth of lean muscle mass and stimulates protein synthesis, which helps muscles recover faster after exercise.
One amino acid especially, the semi-essential amino acid cysteine, helps support the production of the antioxidant glutathione, considered one of the most important antioxidants because it is contained in every cell in our body and is essential for immune health and metabolism. The levels of glutathione in those cells have been used by researchers to study longevity, so boosting levels may help defy aging.
Whey protein also helps support the body’s ability to manage stress levels in two ways. First, the alpha-lactalbumin in whey protein has been linked to a reduction in cortisol, released as part of the fight-or-flight response. High cortisol levels have been linked to anxiety, low mood and weight gain. Whey protein also helps boost tryptophan levels in the brain, which in turn elevates serotonin levels. Serotonin is a feel-good neurotransmitter that has been linked to low moods.
Uses of Whey Protein
Whey protein is commonly used in nutritional supplements marketed to athletes because it is nutrient-dense and helps build muscle mass when combined with exercise. It has been linked to supporting healthy weight management and cholesterol levels.
Skin, hair and nail support
Skin, hair and nails are mostly protein and consuming regular amounts of healthy protein may help to boost their overall health, promoting stronger hair and nails, and smoother skin.
Stress management
Helps to naturally boost tryptophan levels in the brain to elevate serotonin and increase mood.
Weight management
Supports healthy growth of lean muscle for healthy metabolism. Whey protein also helps to stimulate protein synthesis which helps with muscle recovery post-exercise.
Signs You May Need Whey Protein
Those who do not take in enough protein are at risk of not only losing muscle mass and strength, but also decreased bone mass, a weaker immune system, a slower recovery rate from injury and cognitive impairment.
Low protein is one of the most common contributing factors in age-related deaths.
If you suffer from anxiety, whey protein may naturally help support healthy stress management by maintain cortisol and serotonin levels.
Synonyms and Similar Forms of Whey Protein
Bovine Whey Protein Concentrate, Milk Protein, Milk Protein Isolate, Mineral Whey Concentrate, Whey, Whey Fraction, Whey Peptides, Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Hydrolysate, Whey Protein Isolate, WPC, WPI
