Revealed, the 7 Facts About Whey Protein and Its Effects

Whey protein is a popular supplement, often used by athletes bidding to build muscle mass. A natural by-product of milk, whey protein has many known benefits and is usually consumed in a shake or a smoothie immediately after a workout.

Here are 7 facts about this protein that will explain how it works and why it has become so popular as a sports supplement.

1. Whey protein is one of the two major proteins found in cow’s milk; casein is the other. It is not a single protein but is instead a collection of proteins isolated from whey.
2. Whey itself is a by-product of cheese manufacturing – during pasteurisation, the curdled milk fat separates from the liquid. The curd is casein and the liquid is whey.
3. Low in both fats and carbohydrates, whey is known as a “fast” protein because it can nourish the muscles rapidly.
4. There are three types of whey protein: isolate, concentrate and hydrolysates, of all which have different levels of lactose, fat and cholesterol. Whey protein isolate is more concentrated because the fat and lactose are removed; whey protein concentrate has low levels of cholesterol and fat, while also containing lactose. Whey protein hydrolysates are the most easily absorbed by the body.
5. There are high levels of amino acids in whey, the organic compounds that are essential for healthy muscle development and repair.
6. Whey has a higher biological value than food such as fish, beef and soya, allowing more of its protein to be used by the body.
7. Whey protein is suitable for use by vegetarians who consume dairy products and can be an essential supplement for those who don’t get their protein fro meat.