Whey protein is a low-fat byproduct of cheese made from milk. It is a collection of globular proteins isolated from whey, which has the highest biological value of any known protein. Whey protein is useful in promoting muscle gain and has other health benefits as well.
Exercise Performance
Whey protein as a supplement is more effective than casein at improving exercise performance.
Cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. High levels of cortisol are associated with "Symptom X" and lead to protein breakdown. Whey protein lowers cortisol levels.
Muscle Mass
Whey protein was tested on 13 subjects as part of a 10-week weight training program. The subjects gained over 10 lbs. of muscle.
Glutathione
Glutathione is an antioxidant in the body that helps with immune function. Whey protein supplements increase glutathione in the body by providing the two precursor amino acids: cysteine and glutamine.
Lactose
Even though whey protein comes from milk, it is low in milk sugar, or lactose. Whey protein is easy to digest, and can be taken by those with lactose intolerance.
Weight maintenance
Whey protein helps in weight loss and weight maintenance because of its calcium content, lactose sugar, protein and leucine. All of these work together to regulate metabolism.
Immune System
Whey protein helps improve immune function because it contains cysteine, lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, BCAAs, and because it helps maintain glutathione in the body.
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