Whey Protein was originally deemed a waste by the dairy industry, but recently, it has solidified its position as ‘the top protein source’ in the supplement sector. Out of the various supplemental source of protein available out there, It is favoured to be the best protein supplement by researchers and consumers due to its full complement of essential amino acids, rich concentration of BCAA (particularly the leucine content), ease of digestion, greater solubility, high bioavailability (more efficiently absorbed and utilized). The top-notch protein supplement lends itself to on-the-go options like shakes and conveniently gets you a quality protein intake. The high protein, low fat, low carb option is a boon for vegetarians, as the best quality vegetarian protein sources are limited.
Whey although is chiefly designed to address the protein gaps of varied diets, it is mostly sought after for its muscle-building and athletic performance benefits.
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Here we list the 5 main benefits of consuming Whey Protein:
1. Whey protein initiates faster muscle protein synthesis
Body composition is the chief objective of athletes and the type of protein source is an essential consideration for improving the body composition. Multiple sources promote protein synthesis when consumed after exercise, but Whey is apparently more effective than other sources in elevating protein synthesis and promoting lean muscle mass gains due to its attribute of increasing intracellular leucine concentration by 110% within one hour after consumption.
2. Whey protein improves muscle recovery
Improving muscle recovery could be a driving factor in athletic performance. When athletes engage in exercise or performance, the repeated high-force eccentric performance induces muscle damage and muscle degeneration. Post-workout consumption of Whey will serve as an anabolic intervention to expedite the repair of damaged muscles by enhancing whole body net protein balance. It is comparable to other protein sources in improving muscle functions like contractility, extensibility, elasticity, and reconditioning of muscles.
3. Whey protein enhances training quality
The ability to train consistently is critical for continued progression in athletic performance. It’s supplementation post-training has been shown to support the faster restoration of muscle damage, and muscle soreness and facilitate the remodelling of the force-generating power. The rapid absorption of Whey with high leucine content (50% -75% more than other protein sources) improves peak power output, and force generation which translates into the enhanced capacity for reps, sets, and weight lifted.
4. Whey protein maximizes muscle strength
Among athletes, muscle damage, muscle fatigue, and loss of muscle power during training can all be counterproductive to muscle strength. The high levels of BCAA (branched-chain amino acids) and EAA (essential amino acids) in Whey can maximize the adaptive response of the skeletal muscle to the athletic performance by regulating muscle protein synthesis, reducing muscle fatigue, reducing DOMS (delayed onset of muscle soreness), and facilitating faster rate of muscle repair and muscle regeneration all of which indirectly contribute to strength gains.
5. Whey protein improves body composition
Body composition greatly contributes to speed and muscle power in athletic performance. It induces more pronounced muscle protein synthesis and promotes lean muscle mass gains. The thermic effect of Whey (TEF) and the increased muscle mass will help burn more calories. It increases the release of cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) and suppresses the hunger hormone ghrelin which plays a role in appetite control. It helps preserve lean muscle mass while on a low-calorie diet for weight loss.
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