Whey Protein is derived from cow’s milk during the cheese making process. It is formulated into a powder form containing little or no fat and lactose. It is now most commonly used in the sports supplement market. Whey Protein is made up of 20 Amino Acids including all 9 Essential Amino Acids, i.e. Amino Acids that can not be produced by the body so therefore have to be supplemented through the diet.
Whey Protein powder is now the most popular sports supplement available. It comes in a variety of flavors and is predominantly a powder form that when mixed with liquid, mainly water or milk, becomes a ‘shake’ that can be consumed.
Benefits of Whey Protein to Athletes
Athletes of all ages and abilities now understand the importance of consuming Whey Protein as part of their training regime. The benefits of having a Protein shake before, during and after exercise have been widely studied and range from muscle development, weight loss to improving athletic performance and recovery.
Recent studies have shown that a post workout protein shake can reduce muscle damage that is being caused during the workout. It also accelerates the muscle building process post workout as the protein is within the muscle.
The most important time in which to take whey protein is post workout, ideally within 45 mins of completing exercise. The reason being that it is the most vital nutrient for muscle building and recovery. The whey protein can be on it’s own in the form of a shake or a Whey Protein based recovery drink/shake.
Muscle recovery is much faster when protein is absorbed by the body during this 45 minute ‘window’.
If you are serious about muscle gains or improvements in power and strength, then whey protein consumption is vital
Overall Benefits of Whey Protein
Builds muscle
Encourages Fat Loss
Reduces Muscle Depletion
Encourages Bone growth
Repairs muscle
Improves exercise capacity
Strengthens the Immune system