Last Updated on June 18, 2022 by Lori Geurin
Whey protein packs a nutritional punch and has some amazing health benefits to boot. Maybe you’ve used it for a while now or perhaps it’s new to you. Either way, it gives a healthful boost to your eating plan.
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What Is Whey Protein?
Milk contains two types of protein:
- whey – 20%
- casein – 80%
Because whey protein contains all 9 amino acids it’s considered a complete protein.
Types of Whey Protein
There are three main types of whey protein based on how they’re processed:
- Isolate – About 90% protein
- Concentrate – About 70-80% protein
- Hydrolysate – Or sometimes called hydrolyzed whey. This one spikes the insulin more than isolate. (1)
Do you like eating protein bars? How about a protein bar that actually tastes good? That’s Built Bar!
What To Look For In Whey Protein Powder
When you buy protein powder, it’s important to read the ingredient list. Make sure it’s low in sugar, artificial sweeteners, or ingredients you don’t recognize. If you’re not sure about any of the ingredients you might want to look them up on the internet.
Related: 20 Proven Reasons Why Refined Sugar Is Bad For Your Health
Generally speaking, the fewer ingredients, the better.
We’ve tried several, but so far, this one tastes the best (in my humble opinion). The vanilla flavor is easy to mix with add-ins, such as fruits, nuts, etc. And the chocolate is to die for!
I’m sensitive to chemical flavors and overly sweet flavors and this is the only whey powder I can handle. I love its purity!
As you can see, whey protein can be a great addition to your diet, whether you’re trying to lose weight, or gain muscle. Check out some of the impressive health benefits of whey protein below.
5 Health Benefits Of Whey Protein
- Whey is an excellent source of high-quality protein, is quickly absorbed and full of the amino acids our bodies need to work optimally.
- Long-term consumption of whey protein may lower cholesterol levels.
- Whey is filling, which can reduce hunger. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to lose weight.
- Whey protein may lower blood pressure and help control type 2 diabetes when taken along with a high-carbohydrate meal.
- It can help reduce inflammation in the body, a risk factor for many chronic health conditions.
Summary – Whey Protein Benefits
Along with the many benefits of whey protein, it’s simple to use every day. It’s easy to blend into a variety of foods, including pancakes, muffins, oatmeal, cereal, cookies, and yogurt.
I created a Pinterest board devoted to protein powder recipes. You can follow it here for recipe ideas: Protein Powder Recipes
Also, you may want to try my recipes for My Favorite Peanut Butter Protein Shake and My Favorite Protein Powder Pancakes.
Have you tried whey protein? What’s your favorite way to eat it?
Please share in the comment section below. I love hearing from you!
Wow! Whey protein has so many uses, I would never have thought. Thank you for this post.
Pretty cool, right?! You’re so welcome, Sharon – thank YOU!
This is so interesting! I just started having a protein shake for breakfast. Now I know what it’s doing for me!
Thanks, Vanessa! This is great! Hopefully you’re noticing some of these benefits already. 🙂
I need to start adding whey protein to my morning smoothies!
That’s a quick and easy way to do it, Julie!
I don’t know enough about whey, this was really helpful ? Thanks!
Oh, I’m so glad, Jenna! Thanks!