What is Whey Protein?
Casein and whey are the two types of proteins that make up milk. When cheese is made, casein can be separated from the whey, the liquid part produced by the cheese-making process. Whey proteins are then separated from the whey and turned into a powder form. The powder can be added to protein bars and shakes. Whey protein has many benefits because it’s a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids in its makeup. The branched-chained amino acids play a huge role in repairing and building body muscles. As awareness of health and fitness is increasing in Pakistan, people have started using different supplements to improve their physical health and build up muscles.
The use of whey protein can be dated back to the time of Hippocrates, who is also known as the father of medicine. Hippocrates was aware of the countless benefits this form of protein offers the human body. During the 1800s, the use of whey protein was widespread in the spas of Europe. As scientists expanded their research, they soon discovered the impact of whey protein on muscle mass and muscle building. By the 1960s, bodybuilders began using whey protein supplements to boost their metabolism and add to muscle mass.
Whey Protein Prices in Pakistan:
Depending on the brand and amount of supplements, whey protein prices in Pakistan can differ. Whey protein can cost as low as 2,600 rupees for 500g to 15,000 rupees for 6 lbs. It all really depends on the brand, flavor, and type of whey protein supplement you are using.
Types of Whey Protein:
There are three main types of whey protein – concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. The protein concentration varies for each kind of whey protein. WPI, also known as whey protein isolates, contains the highest percentage of protein concentration, making it more expensive in comparison to whey protein concentrate supplements. When compared to whey protein concentrate, WPI is more processed to remove all lactose and fat content. The highest protein percentage, which is more than 90%, can be found in Whey Protein Hydrolysate. Whey Protein Hydrolysate is the most expensive type of whey protein available in the market, as it has zero fat or sugar contents. Whey Protein Concentrate is suitable for adding muscle mass to your body while enjoying different flavors according to your taste preference.
Most supplement companies provide a variety of options to choose from, so it can be challenging to make up your mind. When it comes to choosing the right type of whey protein, you need to keep your body type in mind and the side effects of using whey protein. Most side effects only result in the case of excess usage of whey protein while struggling with weak kidneys and other diseases. If you are willing to spend a good amount of money providing your body with the maximum benefits of whey protein, you should go for Whey Protein Hydrolysate. If you are on a budget, Whey Protein Isolate is a great option too!
Health Benefits of Whey Protein
-Increases Muscle Mass
Whey protein is an essential source of high-quality protein, which is critical to maintaining and increasing the body's muscle mass. A good muscle mass is a significant indicator of good health. In order to rebuild damaged muscle tissues or foster the growth of new muscle tissue, the body needs amino acids that protein provides. Whey protein contains all of the essential amino acids and is the most effective source of protein. With age, muscle mass tends to decline naturally, resulting in unhealthy fat gain. A whey protein supplement can help slow down or prevent this natural process. To reverse the decline of muscle mass, one would have to start weight training, eat a healthy diet, and consume protein supplements.
-Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response to body damage. This natural response can actually be beneficial in the short term. Still, recurring inflammation can do significant harm to the body and become an added risk factor for other more severe illnesses. This is where whey protein and its benefits come into play. Research has proven that whey protein significantly reduces inflammation in the body. In turn, they reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, heart diseases, and inflammatory bowel disease. Health professionals encourage their patients to include whey protein in their diets in order to reduce inflammation.
-Reduces Cholesterol Levels
There are two types of cholesterol in the human body. One is considered “good” cholesterol, and the other is regarded as “bad” cholesterol. HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoproteins) is good for the body because it acts as a carrier and removes cholesterol from the bloodstream. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoproteins) can build up and block the walls of arteries, increasing the chances of life-threatening heart diseases. Whey protein has been shown to help decrease cholesterol levels, providing positive health benefits to the body.
-Reduces Hunger Cravings
Did you know that you can reduce your hunger cravings by 60%? Yes, you can do that just by consuming ¼ of your body’s daily requirements of protein. This fact is backed by scientific research. Studies have shown that proteins, such as whey protein, have a substantial impact on hunger suppression, inherently affect satiety, and boost metabolism. That’s why protein intake is essential and effective during the weight loss process. Whey protein supplement helps you shed pounds and increase lean muscle mass simultaneously.
Whey Protein for Cancer:
Rounds of chemotherapy can take a severe toll on cancer patients' health, leaving them malnourished and weak. To increase body weight and strength, a whey protein supplement can be highly beneficial. A study conducted on 135 cancer patients showed that patients who received nutritional counseling with whey protein isolate supplementation had a higher body weight with fat-free mass and enhanced muscle strength. Whey protein isolate supplementation also had a significant and positive impact on chemotherapy toxicity, reducing it by 30%.
In Pakistan, nutritional supplements and protein powders are considered harmful to the body. This misconception stems from the lack of knowledge about the real benefits of dietary supplements, whey protein being the most beneficial of all of them. From building up muscle mass and reducing inflammation to reducing cholesterol levels and satisfying satiety, whey protein really does it all! While whey protein prices in Pakistan can be on the pricey end, the benefits keep on giving. It’s imperative to use a high-quality whey protein supplement to reap the countless benefits, even though it can be a bit heavy on your pockets.
Yasir is an expert in market research with a knack for finding new ways to engage and convert customers. He completed his MBA in Marketing and working as Digital Media Strategist at Fitflex Supplement Store in Pakistan.