Whey Protein
Health and fitness professionals are a trusted resource for accurate exercise and nutrition information. Our client education tools, nutrition materials and recommended web links were developed to assist you in helping active adults achieve real nutrition results.
What is Whey Protein?
Whey protein is a high-quality protein derived from cow's milk. Whey protein is one of the richest known sources of naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine. Compared to many other proteins, on a gram-to-gram basis, whey protein delivers more essential amino acids to the body and is absorbed quickly and efficiently.
Who benefits from Whey Protein?
Whey protein consumption is worth consideration by those who are physically active and want to optimize protein intake and improve body composition. Research shows that consuming a high quality protein like whey, in combination with resistance exercise, can boost the rate at which the lean muscle mass may improve body composition. In fact, a combination of whey protein intake and resistance exercise yields better results compared to either of the two alone, or combining resistance training with drinking a beverage that contains only carbohydrates.
Where do I find Whey Protein?
Foods containing whey protein: dairy-based beverages, yogurt, nutrition and energy bars, ready-to-drink beverages, powder for smoothies and shakes, beverage mixes and meal replacements. Research shows that consuming at least 20g of whey protein following resistance exercise can result in an increase in muscle protein syntheses in healthy adults.
Tools
The following provides a library of information on whey. Please click on the link for further information.
Whey Protein: For Active Women
Dairy Protein Benefits for Physically Active People, Dairy Council Digest, May/June 2008
The Role of Protein in Satiety and Weight Management, Dairy Council Digest, September/October 2009