Whey Protein, Worth It?

 


Whey protein is naturally found and extracted from milk. The protein in milk is divided into 80% casein protein and 20% whey protein. Casein is a very slow acting protein and whey is fast acting. In 1 litre of milk is approximately 30 grams of protein, and so 6 grams would come in the form of whey - which is a very little amount. For this reason it's extracted into powder form. On average one scoop can give you 20-25 grams of whey, which is a more desirable choice than drinking 4 litres of milk!


So the question is, why do we need whey? Whey protein is the second best protein on the planet, behind eggs. What decides the best protein is determined by its biological availability. Which means how much of the protein can be absorbed and utilised by the body.

Because whey is the fastest acting protein, it is particuarly essential at two times in the day.

One is first thing in the morning, as you are in a starvation state (having been sleeping for several hours) and your muscles will be craving protein in order to be in an anabolic (muscle building) state. The quicker the protein is absorbed, the more anabolic you will become, making whey perfect due to its rapid absorption rate.



The other occassion when whey is essential is immediately after your workout.

Protein after a workout is what starts the rebuilding process. Also after a workout cortisol (stress) levels are particuarly high, which isn't an ideal environment inside the body to build muscle. Whey has proven to dramatically decrease cortisol levels, swaying your body into a more anabolic state.

Also if you are out of the house or haven't got time to make a meal, then whey can be a great meal replacement. Doing so will keep your metabolism elevated and your body in a positive nitrogen balance, rather than missing a meal and letting cortisol levels rise.


Whey protein also contains amino acids and glutamine which can stimulate increased protein synthesis and help speed up your recovery after a workout, meaning you can hit the gym sooner without the dilemma of overtraining. Glutamine has also shown to increase GH (growth hormone) levels after a workout. GH is responsible for building lean muscle tissue and burning fat - identical properties to testosterone/steroids.


Without whey protein, your gains will be compromised. A great whey supplement can be found at the link below:


Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Protein, 5 lbs


Optimum Nutrition has been awarded supplement of the year 2011. Other tub sizes and flavours are also available on the site.