Whey Protein Powder Nutrition Facts

Cheese has been a part of regular diet since thousands of years. People have been consuming whey protein for centuries, but they perhaps were not aware of the health benefits of whey. In ancient times, whey was used to feed animals.

Since more and more study reports providing information on whey protein benefits have been published in the recent years, popularity of whey protein powder has increased tremendously. These days, whey protein is available in the market in various forms and flavors; but very few people are aware of the whey protein nutrition facts.

The left over liquid during the process of coagulation of milk is called 'whey'. Using various techniques like spray drying, membrane filtration, denaturing method, etc. dry powder is produced from the liquid whey. Protein is separated and lipids and other elements are removed from the liquid during various processes. The powder obtained in this way is known as whey protein powder.

As the name suggests, whey protein powder is loaded with protein. Since proteins act as building blocks for the body, consumption of high quality protein helps build strong muscles. Whey protein is digested by the body easily and hence it provides quick nutrition to muscles. It promotes faster muscle protein synthesis, as compared to other proteins.

Whey protein powder is popular amongst bodybuilders as it promotes fat loss. Different types of protein components make whey protein powder a great source of good protein. These components promote faster recovery of a muscle from exercise-related damage.

The protein obtained from whey protein is a high quality protein or complete protein because it comes with an excellent essential amino acid profile. Whey protein fulfills the daily requirement of essential amino acids. It contains all essential amino acids that are required for the proper functioning of the body.

These components promote the release of various hormones (including insulin), enhance the function of endocrine system and help boost energy levels in various ways. As whey protein helps maintain hormonal balance, it helps prevent excessive stress and depression.

High amount of the amino acid 'cysteine' obtained from whey protein is believed to lower the chances of breast cancer in women.

Whey protein powder contains little or no fat. Absence of carbs, fat and cholesterol makes it a perfect supplement for weight loss. As it contains very low or no carbs, fat and cholesterol, it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Whey protein powder is therefore considered as a good supplement for athletes.

Whey protein being carbohydrate free does not lead to abnormal blood glucose levels. In fact, it lowers the chances of developing diabetes.

Lactose present in cow milk can also be found in whey protein powder. Those who have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance may experience stomach pain, gas, diarrhea and bloating, after consumption of whey protein powder.

This is the major component of whey protein which binds to the fat soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E and K) and helps store the vitamins in the body. It thus ensures availability of fat soluble vitamins. It promotes liver health and prevents muscle breakdown.

It binds with calcium and ensures availability of sufficient calcium in the body. Whey protein thus helps prevent osteoporosis. Alpha lactoglobulin helps regulate sleep. It acts as a stress reliever and prevents severe mood swings and depression.

Immunoglobulins from whey protein powder offer several health benefits. They help strengthen the immune system and prevent various types of diseases and disorders including heart diseases and cancer.

This element helps prevent accumulation of dental plaque. Thus it prevents dental cavities and tooth decay and promotes dental health.

It binds with iron in the body and prevents the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It promotes iron absorption in the intestines. It also ensures presence of sufficient beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Whey protein powder helps raise the level of glutathione in the body. Glutathione is an antioxidant which helps cancel the harmful effects of free radicals on the body. Antioxidants help delay the process of aging by strengthening all bodily systems. Infants, growing children, adult men and women, pregnant and lactating women, and elderly can reap the health benefits of whey protein through regular consumption.

According to some experts, excessive consumption of protein can damage the liver and kidney function. But this can happen only when very large quantities of whey protein is consumed over the years.

The nutrition facts of whey protein powder may vary according to the type of whey protein, quality of milk used and the manufacturing process. To be on the safer side, consult your physician for correct dosage and avoid excessive consumption of the supplement.