In the world of health and fitness, protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in building and repairing muscle tissue, promoting satiety, and supporting weight loss. Whey protein is one of the most popular forms of protein supplements in the market.
Whey protein is made from cow’s milk, and it is a popular dietary supplement used by athletes, bodybuilders, and those looking to lose weight. It can be consumed in many forms, such as in powder form or a ready-to-drink liquid. Whey protein shakes are consumed right after a workout to help with muscle recovery. There are many benefits of whey protein, but they also come with some side effects.
Find out whey protein, what types of whey there are, the benefits of whey protein, side effects associated with whey protein, and dosage recommendations. Create an educated decision on whey protein and how best to use it for your needs.
What is Whey Protein?
Whey is the liquid portion of milk obtained after milk coagulation using proteolytic enzymes or acids. This fast-digesting protein forms 20% of milk protein. Whey protein is a natural and rich source of well-balanced nutrients with diverse biofunctional properties. It is a complete protein source packed with all nine essential amino acids.
Whey protein has been shown to support infant development, stimulate muscle growth, improve muscle mass, and confer positive health implications beyond essential nutrition. Due to its wide-ranging health benefits, whey protein is one of the most popular dietary supplements and a significant ingredient of protein bars, meal replacements, healthy drinks, and powders.
Types of Whey Protein
Let us understand the fundamental difference between different types of whey protein. If you plan to begin with a whey protein powder, you will find ample supplements containing various types of whey. All of them may vary in their nutritional value but are incredibly beneficial. Passing the whey protein through various processing treatments yields different qualitative and quantitative protein profiles, minerals, fats, and sugars.
1. Whey protein concentrate
Whey protein concentrate is produced by drying liquid whey into a powder that typically contains 35-80% protein, fats, carbohydrates (lactose), and minerals. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking a top-quality protein source with added fats and carbs to promote muscle growth or modest weight gain.
2. Whey protein isolate
By undergoing additional processing to decrease its fat and carbohydrate content, whey protein concentrate is converted into whey protein isolate, typically containing 85-90% protein and possessing greater bioavailability.
This form is usually preferred by weight watchers, athletes, or bodybuilders for lean muscle growth and a ripped physique.
3. Whey protein hydrolysate
Hydrolyzed whey protein is created by breaking down whey protein into peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis. This form is ultra-fast absorbing as the protein is present in the pre-digested form.
Generally, whey protein isolate is more expensive than concentrate form. Whey protein concentrate is the best if you prefer a minimally processed protein powder. Whey protein isolate powder and hydrolysate are better choices for lactose-intolerant people.
Benefits of Whey Protein
There are various health benefits associated with the intake of whey protein.
Here are some of the most significant ones that have been backed by scientific research:
1. Complete protein source
Due to its rapid digestion rate and high nutritional value, whey protein is an exceptional protein source. It contains all of the essential amino acids required by the body. It has a high biological value, meaning that the body absorbs and utilizes a significant portion of the protein consumed.
2. Stimulate muscle growth
Whey protein is particularly rich in the amino acid leucine, the most potent amino acid for promoting muscle growth and recovery. The high concentration of leucine in whey protein makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to build muscle. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that whey protein supplementation can increase the release of anabolic hormones such as insulin, which further supports muscle growth and repair.
3. Encourage weight loss
If your fitness goal is to reduce body fat percentage, you must consider including a whey protein shake in your diet. It suppresses appetite, provides fullness, boosts metabolism, and helps lose weight without losing muscle mass, resulting in healthy body composition.
4. Exhibit antioxidant property
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally produced in our bodies, and whey protein contains precursors to glutathione that can help boost its production. By increasing glutathione levels, whey protein can help fight against harmful free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to the development of various diseases. The antioxidant properties of whey protein make it a potentially beneficial supplement for individuals looking to improve their overall health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases.
5. Antihypertensive
Several studies have demonstrated the ability of whey protein to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disorders by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
6. Healthy blood glucose levels
Whey protein has been shown to be safe for people with diabetes and may even offer potential benefits for managing blood glucose levels. Studies have demonstrated that whey protein supplementation can help reduce serum blood glucose levels, increase the secretion of satiety hormones like leptin, and reduce the release of ghrelin, known as the hunger hormone.
By helping to regulate appetite and blood glucose levels, whey protein can be a beneficial dietary supplement for individuals with diabetes.
However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes or adding supplements to your regimen if you have diabetes.
7. Anti-inflammatory
Research suggests that whey protein can reduce inflammatory marker levels in the body and reduce inflammation.
8. Enhance immunity
Protein is an essential nutrient required for synthesizing antibodies, which play a critical role in maintaining a healthy immune system and defending the body against infections and diseases. Whey protein supplementation is a perfect way to deliver a superior quality protein source to the body.
9. Healthy blood cholesterol levels
Elevated LDL cholesterol levels increase the chances of developing heart disease. Whey protein helps maintain a healthy blood lipid profile by preventing LDL cholesterol levels from rising, supporting cardiovascular health, and reducing the risk of developing heart disease.
10. Advantageous during IBS
Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, whey protein might also alleviate the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) by soothing and suppressing the chronic inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract.
Side Effects of Whey Protein
Whey protein is safe to consume. One can conveniently add whey protein to your daily diet in shakes, smoothies, pancakes, and recipes.
To enjoy the health benefits, one must not exceed the recommended dosage of whey protein.
Excess intake of whey protein might result in indigestion issues like:
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Flatulence
- Reduced appetite
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Acne
Therefore, it is safer to consult a dietitian before consuming whey protein supplements. People with existing renal or liver disorders, pregnant and lactating women, must seek medical advice before starting the supplement.
Whey Protein Dosage
The recommended dosage of whey protein can vary depending on individual protein requirements and can differ across brands. However, a generally safe amount to consume is 25-50 grams or 1-2 scoops.
It’s always safer to refer to the dosage instructions on the packaging to ensure safe consumption.
Best Whey Protein Brands in India
These are some top-notch whey protein supplements you can consider including in your diet.
1. Nutrabay Pure Whey Protein Concentrate
Nutrabay Pure Whey Protein Concentrate is an ideal supplement to fuel your intense workout sessions by providing a rich source of protein that helps build and repair muscles. The product is made from the finest quality ingredients to ensure optimal results. Its high protein content makes it a preferred choice for those who want to meet their daily protein requirements.
Nutrabay Pure Whey Protein Concentrate is available in a variety of delicious flavors, including:
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
It is easy to mix and can be added to water or milk for a convenient and tasty protein shake.
2. Nutrabay Gold Whey Protein Isolate
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, Nutrabay Whey Proteins are an ideal protein source with low carbohydrate content, perfect for making high-protein shakes and adding to any recipe.
Nutrabay Gold 100% Whey Protein Isolate, made from imported whey, provides 25g of protein per serving, making it an excellent choice for gym-goers, athletes, and those who engage in intense training.
It is a rich source of protein that promotes lean muscle building, enhances recovery, supports healthy metabolism, boosts immunity, and reduces muscle loss. It is extracted using a natural cross-filtration method, resulting in minimal processing and preservation of the protein nutrients in their original form.
Nutrabay Whey Protein Isolate is available in 4 delicious flavors
- Rich Chocolate Crème
- Café Mocha
- Strawberry Milkshake
- Vanilla Ice Cream
3. Nutrabay Gold Tri-Blend Whey Protein
Nutrabay Gold Tri-Blend Whey Protein is a protein supplement that combines three types of whey protein – hydrolysate, isolate, and concentrate, providing 25g of high-quality protein per serving with maximum biological value and digestibility. It is an excellent option for gym-goers, athletes, and sports enthusiasts looking to support their fitness goals.
The product is free from amino spiking, artificial colors, fillers, added sugar, gluten, and banned substances, making it a clean and safe choice. Nutrabay Tri-Blend Whey Protein supports lean muscle growth, post-workout recovery, healthy metabolism, and immunity and prevents muscle loss.
The whey protein is extracted using the cross-filtration method, a natural and minimal processing technique that ensures the preservation of protein nutrients in their original form.
It is available in 7 delicious flavors
- Double Chocolate
- Cold Coffee
- Strawberry Milkshake
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Mango Milkshake
- Kesar Badam Pista
- Malai Kulfi
4. Optimum Nutrition (ON) Whey Protein
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Blend is a top-rated protein powder containing 24g of blended protein consisting of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides/hydrolysates, designed to support lean muscle mass. It has been tested for banned substances, ensuring its safety for consumption, and is Informed Choice Certified.
The product is suitable for vegetarians, is gluten-free, has been trusted by athletes worldwide for the past 35 years, and is the most-reviewed whey protein powder by the sports protein powder brand Optimum Nutrition.
There are ten delicious flavors to choose from when purchasing Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Blend, making it easy to find a flavor that suits your taste preferences.
5. Asitis Whey Protein
Asitis Nutrition Whey Protein offers a natural and raw form of whey protein that is perfect for those who engage in intense workouts. It promotes muscle recovery and reduces muscle loss.
This protein powder ensures maximum protein and nutrient intake while preserving its original form without any added fillers or preservatives. Although unflavored, Asitis Nutrition Whey Protein Concentrate allows for the flexibility to add your preferred flavor.
6. GNC Whey Protein
GNC’s Pro Performance Whey is a high-quality protein supplement that can enhance your fitness performance. It is designed for easy absorption and quick metabolism with its instantized formula.
The product includes 5.5g of BCAAs, which can help in gaining lean muscles, reduce fatigue, and prevent muscle cramps. It is gluten-free and contains a unique blend of digestive enzymes for easier digestion.
And GNC Whey Protein is available in a delicious flavor without added sugar, making it suitable for your fitness and health goals.
7. BigMuscles Whey Protein
Embark your fitness journey with the high-quality, international standard Bigmuscles Nutrition Essential Whey Protein Formulated to provide additional energy, muscle definition, and recovery. Each serving of Essential Whey Protein offers an optimal 24g dose of protein, helping with muscle growth and post-workout recovery.
The product undergoes 3rd party lab testing to ensure purity and freedom from banned substances. It can be consumed before or after exercise, between meals, or when you require an extra protein boost.
It is available in mouth-watering flavors like:
Dutch Chocolate
Malai Kulfi
Smooth Banana Creme.
8. Impact Whey Protein
If you’re looking for a premium quality whey protein powder that delivers incredible taste, look no further than Impact Whey Protein.
This protein shake is an excellent option for athletes and fitness enthusiasts of all levels who want to achieve various training goals. It offers high-quality protein that promotes the development and preservation of lean muscle mass. It comes in more than 40 tasty flavors, such as cookies and cream, rhubarb and custard, summer fruits, and various natural options. Drinking it before or after exercising or at any point during the day is advisable.
9. Muscletech NitroTech Whey Protein
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is a high-quality protein supplement supporting lean muscle growth with 30g of premium whey protein, mainly sourced from whey protein peptides and isolate. The protein in Nitro-Tech undergoes a multi-phase filtration process to ensure that you get a pure protein isolate that is easy to mix with water and quickly absorbed by your body.
You can choose from five distinct flavors, which blend natural and artificial to give your workouts a delicious gourmet twist.
10. Dymatize Whey Protein
Dymatize Nutrition Elite Whey Protein Powder contains 100% whey protein concentrate and isolate, which perfectly balance essential and non-essential amino acids in their most easily assimilated form.
Elite 100% Whey Protein delivers 25g of premium, fast-digesting, and quickly absorbed whey protein in each serving, containing whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and whey peptides. It is designed to support the most demanding athletic and fitness objectives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whey protein is a popular and effective supplement that can help to build muscle mass, promote weight loss, improve immune function, and reduce inflammation. While it is generally safe for most people, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects and choose a high-quality product free from harmful additives. Incorporating whey protein into your diet can improve your health and fitness goals and help you reach your full potential.
Are there any side effects of whey protein?
When taken by mouth: Whey protein is likely safe for most adults when taken appropriately. High doses can cause some side effects such as increased bowel movements, acne, nausea, thirst, bloating, reduced appetite, tiredness, and headache.
What are the negative effects of protein powder?
It may be high in added sugars and calories.
Some protein powders have little added sugar, and others have a lot (as much as 23 grams per scoop). Some protein powders wind up turning a glass of milk into a drink with more than 1,200 calories. The risk: weight gain and an unhealthy spike in blood sugar.
What are the 3 benefits of whey protein?
Whey is rich in a branched-chain amino acid called leucine. Leucine is the most growth-promoting (anabolic) of the amino acids ( 3 ). For this reason, whey protein is effective for the prevention of age-related muscle loss, as well as for improved strength.
What happens if you drink whey every day?
Eating too much whey protein can cause digestive issues such as nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, pain, and cramping. Some people are also allergic to whey. If you can’t tolerate regular whey protein concentrate, isolate or hydrolysate may be more appropriate.
Should I take whey protein every day?
Additionally, most Americans get more than the amount of protein they need every day in their regular diets, so you probably don’t need to take whey protein on a daily basis. For some select groups, however, whey can be a worthwhile daily supplement.
