Whey protein has been around for a while but have only been known to a wider public for the last decade or so.
Even now, it is not really popular unless you're a body builder or a serious athlete because those two groups need more than the average protein for their body to be able to keep up with heavy training.
Production.
Whey is actually a by-product of making cheese or casein.
It's the remaining milk after it's been curdled and strained.
Milk and dairy products are known to be a good source of protein.
That itself is proof that whey protein is high quality protein.
The fat is then removed from this by-product and will be processed for human consumption.
Usually, processing involves drying through spraying or denatured heating.
In some cases though, heat denatured whey causes allergies.
The protein content of whey depends on the processing too because this is when they decide if they remove just the fat or include other non-protein materials too.
Whey As A Supplement.
Many would argue (including health experts) about the importance of taking this when we can really get enough protein we need from our daily diet.
Meat, fish, soy products and other vegetables, and milk and poultry; at least one of these are always present in a person's meal.
Whey protein is the highest quality of protein, though, since it's processed and most of the times does not include fat and other materials.
There are no type of food that has this type of protein, it comes in powder, protein bars and some drinks.
Also, compared to other food, whey (usually in powdered form) is very easy to digest and process.
For body builders, this type of protein provides amino acids that is perfect for muscle building, strength (energy) and recovery.
Recovery after a heavy workout and training sessions is important for body builders and athletes.
Other than that, it also works as an anti-oxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.
Two Types Of Whey Protein.
First is whey protein isolate; simply put, this is whey in its purest form.
This type of protein is rid of lactose and fat and is normally 90%+ pure protein by weight.
The other one is whey protein concentrate which is low in fat, has a very high biological value (how it can be used by the body for growth etc) and is normally 75%+ protein in weight.
Other Facts •Recent studies have showed that whey protein can also be used for weight loss, cancer treatment, infant health, wound healing and the elderly.
•Whey is a key ingredient to baby formulas because it has many similar components as a mother's milk.
•The only documented side effect of whey are allergies due to denatured heating.
It is generally safe provided a person does not have allergies to dairy products, but it is always best to consult a physician.
•The more pure the whey protein is the more expensive it will be.
•Other people who can benefit from whey protein are vegetarians and those on a weight loss program.