What are Whey proteins?

By: Ms. Reema Bhatia (Nutritionist)

When the proteins and fat in milk are precipitated by acids, rennet, or bacterial fermentation, liquid whey is separated. The globular proteins isolated from this liquid whey are the whey proteins. A whey protein comes in three major forms: Concentrate, Isolate, and Hydrolysate. Concentrates have 29%-89% of protein by weight. They are low in fat and cholesterol but have huge levels of Lactose. Isolates have 98% of protein by weight. They are processed to remove the fat as well as Lactose.

Hydrolysates are predigested and partially hydrolyzed whey proteins that are easily metabolized in the body. A whey protein contains amino acids (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine) that are used as a fuel for muscles at work and also stimulates protein synthesis. Supplementation with whey protein after exercise improves muscle protein synthesis. Whey proteins have superior amino acid profile and it also reduces the risk of diseases like heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Whey protein is commonly marketed and ingested as a dietary supplement to prevent protein catabolism especially during prolonged training sessions.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

almonds and pulses also have high protein content. Eggs, chicken, turkey, salmon are other options. Whey protein shakes are also really renouned among gym regulars. This is since whey proteins can be [...]