What is Whey protein and Why do you need it?

What is Whey Protein?

The simple answer is Whey Protein is a pure, natural, high quality protein made from cow's milk and it is also a rich source of the essential amino acids needed on a daily basis by the body.
Whey Protein is an excellent protein choice for individuals of all ages. In its purest form, as Whey Protein isolate, it contains little to no fat, lactose or cholesterol. It also provides a number of benefits in areas including sports nutrition, weight management, immune support, bone health, and general wellbeing. As researchers discover new applications for both Whey Protein and its unique individual protein components there is always new information available on the health benefits of Whey Protein.

Why is Whey Protein needed? 

Whey Protein and Whey Protein isolate are essential in the bodybuilding world today because of their ability to be digested very rapidly. They are ingested quickly and this allows the protein to become available for muscle building very quickly. Usually is commonly used after workouts to help increase levels of amino acids in the blood, which are taken up by the muscles to ultimately increase muscle mass. During exercise Whey Protein helps open up blood flow by inhibiting an angiotensin- converting enzyme which originally constricts blood vessels; this allows better flow of nutrients to necessary areas to help repair and rebuild muscle tissues.

The next couple of paragraphs are for the budding scientist in everyone that wants to know every detail.... 

Whey is an abundant source of (BCAAs) branched-chain amino acids which are used to fuel working muscles and stimulate protein synthesis. The amino acid leucine plays a key role in initiating the transcription pathway that fires up protein synthesis. Leucine is part of the three branched chain amino acids (BCAA) - the other two are Valine and Isoleucine. When the amino acid leucine is ingested in high amounts, such as with Whey Protein supplementation, there is greater stimulation of protein synthesis, which may speed recovery and adaptation to stress (exercise). Leucine is an essential amino acid which assists to regulate blood sugar and energy levels, production of the human growth hormone, wound healing as well as the growth and repair of muscle tissue.

Leucine can also assist in the prevention of the breakdown of muscle proteins that may occur after severe stress or trauma.

However, another study suggested that large amounts of Whey Protein can increase cellular glutathione levels. Glutathione is an antioxidant that defends the body against free radical damage and some toxins, and studies in animals have suggested that milk proteins might reduce the risk of cancer.  It detoxifies harmful compounds in the liver, which is then excreted through bile. Glutathione is not an amino acid, but is actually a tri-peptide made up the amino acids glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine and is also known as gamma-glutamylcysteinylglycine or GSH.

In the next couple of posts I will be talking about the pros and cons of the different types of whey proteins available... until then enjoy your muscle building!