Should you start taking whey protein? Why is it so frequently consumed by bodybuilders? Is it helpful for anything else besides for bodybuilding? Is it healthy? If you want to learn more about whey protein and its health benefits, keep reading this article to get to know five benefits of whey protein.
1. Beneficial for building muscle
Whey protein is very frequently consumed by bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. It's because whey protein is a wonderful source of protein and all essential amino acids which your body uses as building blocks - to rebuild stronger and bigger muscles (as well as to support many other functions).
What's more, whey protein has a beneficial effect on body composition because it spares muscle mass when you're on a calorie-reduced diet, increases lean body mass, improves strength and increases muscle size. Whey protein is also helpful when you want to burn fat - continue reading to learn more about it!
2. Useful for dieters
Whey protein isolate is 90-95% protein. Protein is the most satiating nutrient. When you're on a diet, hunger control is very important. Furthermore, whey protein is a good source of calcium which promotes a better body composition. Studies also show that whey protein may reduce blood levels of ghrelin - a hormone which controls your appetite (when you have low levels of ghreline you feel full).
3. Beneficial for heart
Research suggests that taking whey protein may be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Studies show that taking whey protein daily decreases triglycerides, cholesterol levels, insulin resistance and reduces blood pressure (one study showed that taking 28 grams of whey protein daily for six weeks reduces blood pressure by eight points).
4. Strengthens your bones
As mentioned before, whey protein is a good source of calcium which is very important for bone health. Protein is another important nutrient for your bones (it makes up to half of the volume of bone). Taking whey protein may be very beneficial for women suffering from osteoporosis.
5. Improves immunity
Whey protein increases levels of glutathione which is one of the most important immunity-boosting antioxidants in the body. Researchers also found out that whey protein supplementation reduces the risk of developing colon tumors (or reduces their size). Keep in mind that I'm talking about animal studies.
The best type of whey protein powder is whey protein isolate which contains 90-95% of protein. Avoid cheap whey protein concentrates - consuming them may result in digestive issues. Keep in mind that although most milk allergens are in caseins, taking whey protein if you're allergic to milk may also result in symptoms of allergy.
Check my article to read more about popular types of protein.