The secret ingredient that makes protein shakes and protein bars so great at helping people to build muscle is whey protein. If you have been involved in the weight lifting world, you’ve probably heard of whey protein before. Not all protein is made the same; different types of protein have different amino acids. Whey protein is one of the highest quality versions of protein available. It is considered to be a “complete” protein, having all nine essential amino acids. It is whey protein’s status as a complete protein that makes it so effective for building muscle and gaining weight appropriately.
What is Whey Protein?
Essentially, whey protein is a mixture of proteins that have been isolated from whey, the liquid part of milk that is separated during the cheese production process. Milk contains two primary types of protein: whey (20%) and casein (80%). The whey is that liquid part that sits on top of yogurt. A typical serving of whey protein can add 25-50 grams of protein to your daily protein intake.
Also Read:Are Protein Shakes Good for You?
How Whey Protein Helps You Bulk Up
Protein is the building block of all the cells in the human body, including the contractile elements of the muscles. The more complete proteins that a person consumes, the more building blocks they have to build up muscle mass. But whey protein helps to increase muscle mass and strength in multiple ways:
- Building blocks
Whey protein grants the body protein and amino acids which are needed to increase muscle growth. - Hormones
Whey protein releases the amino acid, leucine which stimulates muscle protein synthesis at both molecular and genetic level. - Leucine
Whey protein also contains significant amounts of leucine, an amino acid that stimulates muscle protein synthesis. - Fast absorption
Whey protein is more effective than other types of protein, because it is absorbed and utilized very quickly.
