Top 7 Benefits of Whey Protein

Top 7 Benefits of Whey Protein

When searching for a protein powder, most people choose the first one they see on shelves. Though protein powders may look and sound the same, they're quite different. Whey Protein Powder tops the most popular protein powders list and has been around longer than many. Incorporating whey protein powder into your meal plan can have several health benefits. Find out the facts about whey protein powder and if it's right for you by reading this list of benefits of whey protein.

What Is Whey Protein?

Whey protein powder is a dairy-based protein that comes from cow's milk. Whey, a byproduct of cheese, makes up 20% of the protein in milk. The remaining 80% is made of casein. Decades ago, whey was thought to be worthless and was often thrown out during the cheese-making process. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th Century that whey's nutritional value was discovered and became a popular protein supplement. Since its discovery, whey protein powder has continuously topped the list of powerful proteins, and tens of thousands of whey protein products are now sold worldwide.

Whey Isolate vs. Whey Concentrate

There are two popular types of whey protein powder: whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Whey protein concentrate is less processed and retains many fats and carbohydrates that traditional milk does. Most whey protein concentrates range from 70-80% protein. On the other hand, whey protein isolate is more processed, and the fat and carbs are filtered out. The result is a protein powder that is 90% protein or greater. Whey protein isolate also contains very minimal to no amounts of lactose, making it suitable for lactose intolerant individuals to consume. The fat-free nature of whey protein isolate means you should consume it immediately after a workout for the most significant health benefits. Dairy Free Breakfast_Bob's Red Mill

Purchasing Whey Protein

When searching for a whey protein to purchase, look for one that has a good quality protein source. Many whey protein powders will also contain compounds that help you better digest them and receive health benefits. Probiotics are just one example of an added ingredient that helps maximize the absorption and benefits of whey protein powder. Though whey protein is naturally gluten free, it is essential to look at all ingredients on the packaging. Many whey protein powders contain flavorings, sweeteners and additives that may not be gluten free. Play it safe, and look up ingredients you're unsure about.

Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder

Our Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder is a high-quality complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids required for strength and muscle development. Incorporating this protein into your diet is an excellent way to boost your protein intake without adding unnecessary carbs and fat. Unsweetened and straightforward, this whey protein powder dissolves instantly, making it a great addition to protein shakes, smoothies, granola bars and baked goods.

Whey Protein Powder Benefits

Eager to learn more about whey protein powder? Read on to discover its many benefits.

Whey Is a High-Quality Protein

Whey is created via the cheese-making process. As the milk turns into cheese, a liquid begins to separate. This liquid is known as whey and is the same ingredient used to make whey protein powder. Whey is a source of complete protein and contains all essential amino acids. High-quality and excellent for you, whey protein is one of the best protein sources available for humans.

Whey Protein Can Help with Inflammation

Our bodies become inflamed for many reasons. Though inflammation is a normal response to damage, symptoms like pain, fever, fatigue and muscle stiffness begin to manifest when we remain inflamed for too long. Incorporating more whey protein into your diet is an excellent way to boost your protein intake, supply your muscles with the food they need, and get your health back on track, potentially reducing unwanted inflammation. Citrus Pound Cake

Whey Protein Builds Muscle

Whether you're an avid gym-goer or just beginning your health journey, adding a bit of whey protein to your diet is a great way to boost overall nutrition. As we age, our muscle mass naturally declines. However, we can slow that decline with a bit of preparation, work and whey. High-quality proteins like our Whey Protein Powder contain a branched-chain amino acid called leucine. Consuming it may help prevent the muscle loss associated with aging and improve overall muscle strength and tone.

Whey Protein Can Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Research suggests that adding high-quality protein to your diet may help moderate blood sugar levels. When consumed, proteins like whey increase insulin levels in the blood and work to normalize its effects on the body.

Whey Helps You Remain Fuller for Longer

If you can't stay away from the office candy bowl, then incorporating a bit of whey protein into your daily meals could help. After a carb-heavy meal, whey protein powder helps reduce blood sugar spice by about 20%. Stabilized blood sugar levels mean that you'll remain fuller for longer and are less likely to crave unhealthy food.

Whey Boosts Immunity

If you're feeling under the weather or are overwhelmed by a busy schedule, sneak a bit of whey protein powder into your morning smoothie. Whey contains special enzymes that help increase the antioxidant glutathione. Glutathione is your body's most robust antioxidant, and it works to protect your cells from stress. Glutathione also boosts your immune system and may keep you healthy during stressful times.

Whey Is Bioavailable

Not all protein powders work in the same ways. For example, protein powders that are hard to digest don't have much nutritional benefit since your body can't digest them. Whey, on the other hand, is a highly digestible protein. To figure out the actual value of proteins, researchers created a scale known as the Protein Digestibility Correct Amino Acid Score, or PDCAAS. The scale runs from 0-1, with 0 being the protein with the least bioavailability and 1 being the more bioavailable protein. Whey is one of the few proteins that score a 1, meaning that it's a valuable source of protein that your body can use immediately. Whey's easy-to-digest nature also makes it the preferred choice for people with sensitive stomachs. whey protein smoothie

Whey Protein Recipes

Ready to begin adding whey to your weekly menu? Here are a few recipes to help you get started.

Doctor's Orders Smoothie

Whether you feel a cold coming on, or are preparing for a tough gym session, this Doctor's Orders Smoothie is the perfect way to ensure that you remain feeling your best. This smoothie blends our Whey Protein Powder, Greek yogurt, pomegranate juice, blueberries and flaxseed meal to create a nutrient-rich shake that is also delicious. Prepare this smoothie the night before and grab it on your way out the door for a time-saving breakfast loaded with nutrients.

Citrus Pound Cake

If you're searching for a dessert as nutritious as it is delicious, you've found it. Low in fat and high in protein, this Citrus Pound Cake is a gorgeous and tasty dessert . Though its texture is moist and dense, the ingredients are light and won't leave you feeling weighed down. It's made with our Whole Wheat Pastry Flour and Whey Protein Powder and sweetened with applesauce and honey for a dessert-like dish that can double as a healthy breakfast.

Whey Protein Pops

Whey Protein Pops Beat the summer heat and make a batch of these Whey Protein Pops. These ice pops are easy to assemble and only require 10 minutes of prep time. They're made with just four ingredients: Whey Protein Powder, canned coconut milk, ripe banana and cocoa powder. Loved by children and adults, this protein-packed snack is one everyone can enjoy.

Tropical Breeze Smoothie

Are you in dire need of a vacation? Wake up on your favorite tropical island and enjoy a pina colada for breakfast. This Tropical Breeze Smoothie combines our Whey Protein Powder with banana, mango, coconut milk, pineapple juice and chia seeds to create a fiber and protein-packed drink that will leave you feeling more relaxed and refreshed than ever. Great for children and adults, this smoothie is so delicious that you'll forget it's filled with nutritious whole food ingredients. Use this guide to determine if whey protein is the right protein powder for your diet. From building muscle to increasing satiety, whey protein powder is overflowing with health benefits to help you feel your best. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, we wish you a healthy and happy day! If you're interested in learning more about whey protein and the difference between whey protein isolate and concentrate, check out the article: Whey Protein Concentrate vs. Whey Protein Isolate. Or, if you're curious to know how plant protein stacks up against whey, study the differences between the two and read Hemp Protein vs. Whey.  
Bob's Red Mill
May 22 2022

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