When we talk about supplements, the first image that comes to mind is those jars of whey protein, widely consumed by people who practice physical activity, right? But, despite its popularity, few people really know what this protein is and, above all, what it is used for.
Perhaps, for many, “increasing muscle mass” is the main purpose of the supplement. However, as we will show in this article, the benefits go far beyond that.
Continue reading to the end and learn the reasons why athletes and exercisers take whey protein. You will see that when combined with healthy habits, it can provide many benefits for your body!
What is whey protein?
Whey protein is a supplement made from protein extracted from whey, a byproduct obtained through the cheese-making process. To give you an idea, this substance is taken from the fatty part of the milk that coagulates during the production of the food. It is in the whey that the nutrients and compounds that make whey a supplement with high nutritional quality are concentrated.
Thus, in addition to containing alpha-globulin and beta-globulin, whey contains essential amino acids that actively participate in the construction of muscles and tissues when absorbed by the body. To be consumed, the substance undergoes an industrialization process that gives it the consistency of powder. Therefore, we can say that whey is formed by protein powder, usually flavored.
Properties of whey protein
Whey protein is a complete supplement with high nutritional quality. The protein extracted from whey makes it rich in compounds capable of providing many health benefits, such as:
- Amino acids: contains 20 essential amino acids in the construction of muscles and tissues.
- BCAA: contains leucine, isoleucine and valine, responsible for helping with muscle repair, increasing proteins and energy during training.
- Calcium: it has a high amount of calcium in its composition, so it can bring great benefits to bone health.
- The supplement is also low in carbohydrates and fats.
- Rapid digestion and absorption in the body.
What is whey protein for?
Whey protein is a source of protein for our bodies. For this reason, one of its main purposes is to supplement the daily needs of this nutrient when there is not enough consumption through food. However, the supplement is also used for other purposes, as we will show in the next topics.
Gain muscle mass
This is perhaps the best-known function of whey protein. Some say it is the favorite of athletes and people who practice physical activities, and with good reason! According to the Mayo Clinic (USA), a non-profit medical services organization, some evidence indicates that the consumption of whey protein increases strength and muscle mass when part of a training is aimed at these same goals.
This mass gain occurs due to essential amino acids, which act as a stimulus for muscle building and contribute to their increase in size and strength. Thus, the supplement is a powerful weapon for hypertrophy, but, of course, only if it is combined with regular training and a balanced diet.
Post-workout muscle recovery
The nutrients present in whey also help with muscle recovery after exercise. As it is a protein with high biological value and rapid absorption, its use accelerates the regeneration of muscle fibers and recovery in a short time. Therefore, its consumption is recommended, mainly, for those who practice intense physical activities and after weight training.
Weight loss
Contrary to popular belief, whey protein intake is not only recommended for those who want to gain muscle mass. The supplement can also be used for weight loss if consumed regularly, with a balanced diet and under the supervision of a nutritionist.
This effect occurs, firstly, due to the feeling of satiety that it provides thanks to the release of the hormone cholecystokinin, which is responsible for controlling appetite and blood sugar. In addition, with the gain in muscle mass, there is consequently a loss of body fat, which influences this weight loss process.
A 2014 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition showed that whey supplements significantly reduced body fat and weight. When examining a group of adults, researchers found that the results were even better among people who combined whey protein supplementation with resistance exercise.
Another benefit of protein associated with weight loss is that it accelerates fat burning.
Nutrition
Whey protein acts as a daily protein supplement. Therefore, it can be consumed to supplement the diet of people who consume less of the nutrient and need to resort to other protein sources to replace it. In these cases, its intake, accompanied by professional guidance, is highly recommended.
Other benefits of whey protein
It's amazing how supplements can help our bodies in different ways, isn't it? And it doesn't stop there! Whey protein also provides other benefits:
- Controls bad cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Recovers muscle injuries.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Prevents premature aging.
- Increases strength and performance during training.
- Reduces catabolism and helps anabolic function.
- Helps with healing.
- And much more.
Who is whey protein recommended for?
Whey protein supplementation is recommended for four main groups. The first is for athletes who practice long-duration aerobic sports (running, cycling), and people seeking hypertrophy, that is, to increase muscle strength. The protein can also be consumed by those seeking to lose weight and people who need to increase their protein intake.
It is important to remember that the type (concentrate, isolate, hydrolyzed) and quantity of whey per day should be defined according to each person's personal goals and health conditions. Therefore, a professional should guide you on choosing the best supplement, the most appropriate time and how many grams to take to achieve your goals and stay healthy.
Bold bars with whey protein
If you want to try our bars or are already part of the team of people who have included them in their routine, did you know that they contain whey protein? That's right! The 20 grams of protein in the snacks are obtained as follows:
- In traditional bars, collagen, whey and whey proteins are extracted.
- In vegan options, the protein is made up of rice, soy and peas.
For this and other reasons, they are the best option for those times when you want a healthy, tasty and nutritious snack. In addition to protein, the bars are rich in fiber, gluten-free and have zero added sugar. Not to mention the surreal flavors, chosen to please the most diverse palates.
Visit our online store now and choose your favorite flavor!
