Containers of whey protein being sold at a health food store. Whey protein is a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey, the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. Whey protein is commonly marketed as a dietary supplement, and various health claims have been attributed to it in the alternative medicine community.[1] Although whey proteins are responsible for some milk allergies, the major allergens in milk are the caseins. Whey is left over when milk is coagulated during the process of cheese production, and contains everything that is soluble from milk after the pH is dropped to 4.6 during the coagulation process.[4] It is a 5% solution of lactose in water, with some minerals and lactalbumin.[5] The fat is removed and then processed for human foods.[5] Processing can be done by simple drying, or the protein content can be increased by removing lipids and other non-protein materials.[6] For example, spray drying after membrane filtration separates the proteins from whey.

Whey can be denatured by heat. High heat (such as the sustained high temperatures above 72 °C associated with the pasteurization process) denatures whey proteins. While native whey protein does not aggregate upon renneting or acidification of milk, denaturing the whey protein triggers hydrophobic interactions with other proteins, and the formation of a protein gel.[6] Heat-denatured whey can still cause allergies in some people. Whey protein is the collection of globular proteins isolated from whey. The protein in cow's milk is 20% whey protein and 80% casein protein,[9] whereas the protein in human milk is 60% whey and 40% casein.[10] The protein fraction in whey constitutes approximately 10% of the total dry solids in whey. This protein is typically a mixture of beta-lactoglobulin (~65%), alpha-lactalbumin (~25%), bovine serum albumin (~8%)(see also serum albumin), and immunoglobulins.[11] These are soluble in their native forms, independent of pH. Being a by-product of the cheese making process, and likelihood of animal rennet use, whey protein as well as casein products may not be suitable for consumption by lacto-vegetarians or observers of kosher dietary laws.

There are, however, specialty producers of vegetarian-approved whey protein products produced using non-animal "rennet" (enzymes). These products are often also labeled as kosher and halal approved. The amino acid cysteine in whey protein is a substrate for the synthesis of glutathione in the body which is an ubiquitous cellular antioxidant; laboratory experiments have suggested that whey protein and its components might reduce the risk of cancer in animals, suggesting an avenue for future medical research. Whey protein typically comes in four major forms: concentrate (WPC), isolate (WPI), hydrolysate (WPH) and Native Whey. The use of whey protein as a source of amino acids and its effect on reducing the risks of diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes has been the focus of ongoing research as of 2007.[17] Whey is an abundant source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs),[18] which are used to stimulate protein synthesis.[19] When leucine is ingested in high amounts, such as with whey protein supplementation, there is greater stimulation of protein synthesis, which may speed recovery and adaptation to stress (exercise).

[20] Whey has approximately three grams of leucine per serving and the threshold for optimal protein synthesis is three grams. As with other forms of protein, consumption of whey protein shortly after vigorous exercise can boost muscle hypertrophy.Cheap Sheer Drapery Fabric Scientific evidence has shown that proteins high in essential amino acids (EAA), branched chain amino acids (BCAA), and particularly leucine (Leu) are associated with increased muscle protein synthesis, weight loss, body fat loss, and decreased plasma insulin and triglyceride profile.Weight Loss 160 Lbs To 130 Lbs[23] A study done by Hulmi et al. (2009) had subjects either consume a whey protein drink or placebo, the results showed that the whey protein sample had a three percent increase in the cross section area of the vastus lateralis muscle and a five percent increase in the muscle force of the isometric leg extension. How To Fix Bathtub Push Drain Stopper

However, the study did not show comparative upper body muscle mass or strength increasing nor was there any significant increase in quadriceps femoris other than the vastus lateralis. After an intense training session or a big game, the last thing any athlete wants to do is hover over the stove to make a post-workout meal. For an easy, nutritional fix, many reach for protein bars. The high protein content makes it a staple in an athlete's diet, but are protein bars a good idea for the average Joe? So, Uh, Is There Meat in There? — The Need-to-Know An essential nutrient, protein helps build and repair muscles, which is why many athletes consider protein an essential part of their diets. Protein bars are a convenient way to protein load— some even contain as much protein as a chicken breast. Most manufacturers use soy or whey protein as the main ingredient, both of which have been shown to help athletes gain lean body mass Soy versus whey protein bars: effects on exercise training impact on lean body mass and antioxidant status.

Brown, EC., DiSilvestro, RA., Babaknia, A., et al. Department of Sport & Exercise Sciences, The Ohio State University. Nutrition Journal, 2004 Dec 8;3:22.. A study of weightlifters who consumed protein bars three times a day in addition to their normal diet found a significant increase in lean body mass compared to weightlifters who didn’t eat protein supplements Soy versus whey protein bars: effects on exercise training impact on lean body mass and antioxidant status. But with great protein comes great responsibility... and a great number of calories— most bars have around 300 calories, and many contain the same carb and sugar content as candy bars (or more). In the wrong hands, eating protein bars can pack on the pounds. All Protein Bars Aren’t Created Equal — Your Action Plan For the everyday Joe who works out for only an hour or less at a time, protein bars aren’t a necessary addition. The average adult only needs to get about 10 to 35 percent of their calories from protein each day.

And while extra protein isn't usually dangerous, the added sugar and calories make a protein bar a pretty hefty splurge. For the more serious exerciser, when combined with daily, rigorous workout routines, protein bars can help athletes build leaner muscles . However, a whey protein shake after working out can be equally effective for rebuilding muscles. For those who do opt for the extra protein, do some research beforehand to find the right bar for a particular goal. They come in all types: high-protein, low-carb bars (e.g. Pure Protein), meal replacement bars (e.g. Myoplex), energy bars (e.g. Clif), and even women's bars (e.g. Luna). Make sure to check out the nutritional facts on the back of each bar, specifically the protein (of course), fats, carbohydrates, and sugars. If worst comes to worst, compare with the nearest Snickers bar. Don't think the added protein cancels out the rest of it! Originally posted on May 2, 2011. Updated October 2011 by Kelly Fitzpatrick Like Us On Facebook