Whey protein supplements are concentrated protein products derived, most commonly, from cow’s milk. An excellent source of protein, whey protein supplements come in two types: whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate. The high biological value (BV) of whey protein supplements have made these products some of the most commonly used sports nutrition products.
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Whey Protein Benefits:
*Excellent sources of protein
*High BV for easy absorption
*Supports lean muscle building
*Low fat, low carb protein source
Muscular Development
Developing new muscle involves breaking down muscle proteins during training and encouraging protein synthesis following an intense session of muscle breakdown. After a strenuous training session during which stress placed on the muscles causes muscle protein breakdown (muscle catabolism), the muscles then synthesise available protein stores to build new and stronger muscles. The objective of muscular development is to limit the amount of muscle proteins lost during training while maximizing the amount of protein synthesis following training. Whey protein powders are a great way to optimise this process.
Whey Protein
Whey protein has a high BV, a rating that measures the body’s ability to absorb a substance. Whey protein is easily and effectively absorbed by the body, more so than most other sources of protein. Whey, a milk by-product extracted during the curdling process while making cheese, makes up about 20% of the protein contained in milk. The other 80% is made up of casein protein, a slow-absorbing form of protein. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids, which means it is a complete protein source.
Whey Protein Concentrate
Whey protein concentrate is produced by putting milk through a process that allows water, minerals, and other organic material to be separated. The leftover substance is whey protein, a concentrated form of protein with much of the fats and carbohydrates removed, and which reaches between 70-85% protein. Whey protein concentrate still contains a relatively high amount of lactose, which can cause difficulties for lactose-sensitive individuals.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey protein isolate takes protein purification to another level. Through an intense filtration process, whey protein isolate can achieve 90% or more protein and with the same BV as whey protein concentrate. The filtration process removes nearly all fats and carbohydrates, making whey protein isolate one of the top sources for lean muscle-building proteins. Whey protein isolate also contains only minimal amounts of lactose, which makes it a great product for lactose-intolerant athletes.