The Power of Whey Protein Powder
What role does protein play?
There are 3 macronutrients, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. We’re all told that all 3 macros are important to have in your diet, but the reason that we need supplements for protein is that most people simply don’t eat enough protein. Every cell in the human body contains protein, so it’s vital that you meet your body’s protein needs. Increasing your carbohydrate intake or your fat intake is relatively easier, which is because protein is by far the most filling macro. It reduces the number of hunger hormones, ghrelin’s, present in your body, and boosts the levels of peptide YY, a hormone that makes you full. The importance of protein in your body is indisputable, but let’s continue talking about why whey protein powder is a great source of it.
The way of the whey
Whey protein is a mixture of proteins isolated from whey, which is the cloudish liquid that is expelled from milk during the process of cheese-making. Whey only constitutes 20% of the protein in milk, the other 80% is casein. While both are similar nutritionally,
whey is absorbed much quicker and has an amino acid profile that’s more beneficial to muscle protein synthesis than casein. Whey protein also contains immunoglobulins, which boost immunity and transport nutrients through your body.
The watery portion of milk contains whey, and when cheese is produced the fatty parts of the milk coagulate and the whey is separated. This then goes through various steps of processing to become whey protein powder. It doesn’t taste particularly appetizing, which is why whey protein is mostly flavored, in mouth watering flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or cinnamon. Now that we have a better understanding of how whey is made and what it contains, let’s talk about how it nourishes us.
Fun fact: Human breast milk is 60% whey, cow milk is 20% whey
Why choose whey?
Whey protein is 80% protein by weight, which is significantly higher than most foods. Boneless chicken breast is 30% protein, peanuts are 26% protein, eggs are 13% protein and chia seeds are 17%, to give you some reference points. Mind you, the protein from
whey is also absorbed much faster in your body, which means that whey protein allows you to consume more protein with a faster absorption rate at a fraction of the calorie cost. It’s important to remember that protein is made up of amino acids, and each of these foods has different amino acid profiles when compared to whey. The amino acid profile of whey is definitely an interesting foray into understanding why drinking whey is synonymous with being fit.
Whey contains all the nine essential amino acids your body cannot produce itself, which makes it a ‘complete protein.’ These nine also contain a few branched chain amino acids. A few of these amino acids are significant contributors to your body’s energy production. Here’s a list of the amino acids that participate in energizing you:
Isoleucine: A BCAA, this amino acid is critical for protein metabolism, glucose transportation, and fatty acid metabolism. It also boosts immunity.
Leucine: Used to generate ATP, Adenosine triphosphate, is the fuel your muscles use, it also regulates protein synthesis, metabolism, and more.
Tryptophan: Your body needs this to help make melatonin and serotonin. These regulate how well you sleep, your appetite, and your mood. Melatonin and serotonin production must be kept at a healthy level to prevent fatigue and stay energized.
Valine: It promotes muscle growth and tissue repair in addition to enhancing energy levels and increasing endurance. Valine, Leucine, and Isoleucine are all BCAAs.
In addition to understanding the importance of protein and why whey protein is a good source of it, let's discuss other benefits of whey protein. It’s a given that it’s great for muscle building and repair. The 4 aforementioned amino acids are involved in energy production, but all 9 of them are involved in helping you build muscle. Whey protein can also help you lower your blood pressure, reduce inflammation, enhance the body’s antioxidant defenses, and help fight against diseases. Whey protein is definitely excellent for you, but you should make sure you’re getting high quality whey protein to truly reap the benefits.
Grass-fed whey protein is obtained from cows that don't receive any hormones or fillers, and eat grass that doesn’t come into contact with any chemicals or pesticides. This organic method to procure whey has several benefits. It’s ecologically responsible, the environmental impact is much lower through these practices. By going all natural, you’ll receive a higher concentration of healthy fats and a lower concentration of unhealthy fats. You also receive the most bioavailable form of protein, which means it’s easy for your body to digest, while also ensuring you get a superior concentration of amino acids. The quality of your whey protein matters, so choosing 100% grass fed is a wise option.
Terra Origin’s 100% Grass fed Whey Protein comes in 3 delicious flavors straight from the USA. We maintain the highest standards for our products because we strive to have the best protein powder for muscle gain. Whey protein will boost muscle recovery and synthesis, improve energy levels, help you stay healthy, and most importantly, it’ll make
you feel strong. Your mind, body, and spirit need to feel their best to help you achieve all your goals!