Science behind Whey Protein: What makes it effective? Expert explains | Health Conditions News

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In recent years, whey protein has gained significant popularity as a go-to dietary supplement, not just for athletes and fitness enthusiasts but also for people looking to enhance their protein intake. Whey protein is known for its ability to support muscle growth, help in recovery, and promote overall health. But what exactly makes whey protein so effective?

ICMR has urged people to avoid intake of protein supplements in high amounts as they may have added sugar, non-caloric sweeteners and other additives like artificial flavouring. (Image: Getty)

New Delhi: With an aim to be more have a healthier living, the younger generation and the ones who are vegetarian or only eat a plant-based diet have been significantly relying on Whey proteins. The demand for Whey proteins has largely increased over time and is an ideal solution for vegetarians because of the quality of protein without relying on meat or animal-based sources. In recent years, whey protein has gained significant popularity as a go-to dietary supplement, not just for athletes and fitness enthusiasts but also for people looking to enhance their protein intake.

Whey protein is known for its ability to support muscle growth, help in recovery, and promote overall health. But what exactly makes whey protein so effective? To understand its benefits, it is crucial to get into the science behind this powerful supplement and how it impacts the body.

Sushant Nayyar Founder, Denzour Nutrition shared with News9, “The growing awareness of whey protein’s benefits has contributed to the rapid expansion of the Indian whey protein market. With increasing health consciousness, more people are turning to protein supplements to meet their nutritional needs. This surge in demand is reflected in the market’s projected growth at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.56 per cent rising from USD 91.78 million in 2023 to USD 120.29 million by 2028.”

What exactly is Whey Protein?

“Whey protein is a byproduct of cheese production. When milk is curdled to produce cheese, the liquid that separates from the curd is whey. This liquid is processed to extract the proteins, which contain all nine essential amino acids, which makes it a complete protein. This completeness, along with high bioavailability, makes whey protein a go-to option for many people seeking to improve their protein intake.”

Effectiveness of Whey Protein:

High Bioavailability and Digestibility: One of the main reasons why whey protein is so effective is its high bioavailability. Bioavailability measures how efficiently the body absorbs and utilizes nutrients. Whey protein has one of the highest biological values (BV), with a score of around 104 to 110. This score means the body can absorb and use whey protein more effectively than other protein sources. Additionally, whey protein is quickly digested, and broken down into amino acids within an hour of consumption.

Amino Acid Profile for Muscle Growth: Whey protein is rich in amino acids, particularly branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These BCAAs play a critical role in muscle protein synthesis, the process by which the body repairs and builds muscle tissue. By consuming whey protein, the body benefits from a high concentration of BCAAs, which increases the rate of muscle repair and growth.

Helpful in Recovery: Whey protein is also a top choice for muscle recovery after intense physical activity. After exercising, muscles experience microscopic damage and need protein to repair and grow stronger. The rapid absorption and complete amino acid profile of whey protein supply the building blocks needed for muscle recovery, reducing muscle soreness and inflammation. Additionally, consuming whey protein after exercise can alleviate delayed onset muscle soreness, helping individuals return to their regular workouts or daily activities more quickly.

Effective in Weight Management: Whey protein is not only for building muscle but it is also for supporting weight management. Studies show that protein helps increase satiety, keeping people fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie intake. Whey protein is highly effective in this regard due to its essential amino acid content and its influence on hunger-regulating hormones such as ghrelin. For those looking to lose weight, incorporating whey protein into their diet can help reduce appetite while providing essential nutrients.

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