Whey Protein and Weight Loss

Whey protein is a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey, the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. Some preclinical studies in rodents have suggested that whey protein may possess anti-inflammatory or anti-cancer properties and contain antioxidants that help reduce cell damage by free radicals. Protein needs vary from person to person according to age, weight, sex, activity level and overall health. Many people like athletes, body builders, people with special medical needs, dieters etc. need more protein than a normal individual needs. Whey protein that is a pure protein supplement fulfills the requirement of such people for supporting the wear and tear of body muscles, bones and overall health. As whey protein is a high quality, complete natural protein, with all the essential amino acids, it is considered the richest known source of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine). Therefore, it is recommended for active individuals and people who need to improve their overall health due to its many benefits. There are two primary ways in which whey protein can help with weight loss: helping to repair and build muscle and curbing hunger. To begin with, your muscles need to have protein in order to repair any tears you might experience. For example, when you are working out, you are actually causing small tears in your muscles that then get repaired, making the muscle stronger and larger. In order to restore your muscles following exercise, your body needs a steady supply of protein. With whey protein, you will be able to get one of the most pure forms of protein that will build and tone muscle following exercise. Using whey protein in your diet will also help with weight loss. Not only will it make you feel more energized, but it will help to curb hunger pangs. High protein foods, like whey protein, break down more slowly in the digestive system, which gives you a slow burning energy that will help you to stay moving throughout the day. Studies have shown too that when you add whey protein to your diet along with an exercise plan that includes muscle building or toning exercises, you will be able to lose more weight in a shorter period of time and keep it off. The extra muscle you have on your body will increase metabolism and help you to continue to burn calories, even when at rest. Although whey protein is one of the most excellent forms of protein, it can have dangerous side effects if taken excessively and even in normal situations like for people who are lactose intolerant. Whey protein consumed in very high quantities can affect kidney functions negatively. An extremely high dose of whey protein exerts unbearable pressure on liver and may lead to liver damage. Thus, excessive whey protein intake should be avoided to keep its side effects at bay. Generally, it is recommended to take about 1 gram of protein (or a little less) per pound of one's body weight. Training athletes may consume 25 grams of whey protein per day. Bodybuilders who want some serious body muscle gains may consume 150 grams per day but only if they exercise heavily.