Nutritional Facts about Whey Protein

Proteins perform vital functions in the human body like repairing the body cells, muscles and bones. Protein is a good source of energy and controls many important processes like metabolism of the human body. The proteins are made up of essential amino acids and particularly, whey protein is a rich source of these amino acids. The whey protein is a high protein powder and is a co-product of cheese.

Milk is made up of two kinds of proteins viz. casein protein and whey protein. Whey protein powder is considered the most nutritious protein that is available. The casein protein is separated from the milk and the remaining liquid is filtered. The whey protein is then purified and concentrated using the ion-exchange process. The process of ion exchange does not alter the natural composition of the whey protein. Whey protein is then transferred to a drying tower to make the whey protein powder. Some of the nutritional facts about the whey protein are as follows:

• Whey protein is a rich source of protein. Whey protein has amino acid content greater than that of milk protein, egg whites and even soy milk. The whey proteins contain both essential and non-essential amino acids. Non-essential amino acids are amino acids produced by the human body; while the human body gets the essential amino acids from food. Whey protein is a good source of these essential amino acids.
• The protein-content that the human body requires, depends on sex, age and weight. The physical activity of a person also decides the required protein intake to a great extent. Whey protein is the best source of essential amino acids for professional athletes. Whey proteins can be incorporated in the daily diet for athletes to ensure their proper nutrition and to increase their stamina.
• Whey protein is a good option for people on a low carb diet. Whey protein is a carbohydrate-free and fat-free substance that is also easily available. The whey protein powder (without fat and carbohydrate) is suggested for reducing weight. Whey protein is an important ingredient in many weight loss diets (meal replacements). Having a protein-rich diet does not lead to starvation, which usually is seen as a result of taking meal replacement powders.
• Whey protein isolate is the purest form of whey protein and has good digestion and absorption rates. The bioactive constituents of whey proteins, like the immunoglobulins and lactoferrins boost the immune system. Whey protein has a high biological value which means that it is absorbed very easily in the human body. The absorption rate of whey protein is greater than any of the other proteins available.
• Whey proteins help in regulating the secretion of hormones. Whey protein is also found to be beneficial for preventing diabetes. Whey protein helps in reducing the absorption of carbohydrates, including glucose, in the bloodstream. In this way, it helps reduce the chances of diabetes. It also facilitates the secretion of insulin in the human body.
• Osteoporosis is a disorder, caused due to deficiency of calcium. In osteoporosis, the bones in the human body become fragile and porous. Whey protein encourages bone growth and thus, helps prevent osteoporosis.
• Free radicals are harmful by-products of the oxidation process of the human cells. These free radicals affect the immune system to a great extent. Antioxidants act as scavengers for these free radicals produced. Whey protein provides glutathione, which is a powerful antioxidant. Glutathione helps to protect the cells and neutralize the toxins in the human body.

Lastly, whey protein is tasteless, so if you add whey protein to your food, it does not change the taste of the food. The nutritional facts of whey proteins prove whey protein to be the key to healthy living.