You have always read that whey protein is the best protein source for athletes in recovery and muscle building. In the first post of the supplements series, let's take a look at what whey protein is.
Whey protein is a by-product of cheese making. The solid part that can be separated from the curd used in cheese making is called curd, and whey protein is the water-soluble part of the milk.
The resulting whey is dried and turned into whey protein, usually as powder as we know it.
It is a mixture of whey protein, beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin and immunoglobulins. The important thing is that these proteins will be digested and the effect of whey protein on protein synthesis will come from the amino acids it contains.
We can list several different whey proteins. Sometimes more than 80% of the protein is whey protein, the remaining part is lactose and fat. In this case we call it whey protein concentrate.
Whey protein can be further processed to remove carbohydrates and fat, so we get 90% whey protein. Then we call this isolated whey protein.
Another product we often see in the market is hydrolyzed whey protein. Here the whey protein is pre-digested, meaning that enzymes are added to completely or partially break down the protein into amino acids. The advantage of this situation is that it is absorbed faster and delivered to the muscles.
Whey protein is a high-quality protein, meaning it has all the necessary amino acids. Therefore, the fact that it contains all amino acids and can be delivered quickly makes this one of the best proteins to consume after exercise.
The most important difference compared to other protein sources is leucine, which is very high in whey protein and is the most effective in increasing muscle mass. and total essential amino acid content.
Should every athlete consume whey protein? If the natural nutrition for the exercise meets the needs of the athlete and there is no injury or extra energy expenditure, it is not necessary to use it. Taking more protein than you need will tire the liver and kidneys and make you fat.
Read: 0
