Whey More Than Protein: Unique Benefits of Whey Protein You May Not Know
Looking at the human diet, the main nutrients our bodies need, termed “macronutrients," fall into three categories: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The word “protein" is derived from the Greek word “proteio," roughly meaning “primary." This is fitting, as proteins play some particularly important roles in the body, including building tissues like muscle and functioning as enzymes and hormones.
Not surprisingly, supplying our bodies with high-quality dietary protein is important. Sources like meat, fish, and plant protein can all offer important health benefits. Another protein, the fraction of milk called whey, has some notable properties that make it a solid dietary option.
A Once-Neglected Product of Cheesemaking Whey protein has been produced ever since cheesemaking began. Whey can be processed in a more concentrated form and dried into a powder. The whey protein powder can then be added to various food and dietary supplement products.
Whey offers a very high-quality protein as rated by its biological value, which measures how much of the protein can be utilized. For example, whey has a biological value of 104, meaning nearly all of the amino acids are used by the body This once-neglected byproduct is now a highly sought-after protein source not to be wasted.
Immune Support Whey naturally contains a number of peptides, or short amino acid chains, that have been studied for their immune support benefits. Two peptides found in whey protein called alpha-lactalbumin and beta-lactoglobulin have been shown to support immune system functioning by boosting white blood cell function and production (3-5).
White blood cells are involved in protecting the body against infections and foreign bodies. A compound in alpha-lactalbumin and another component of whey called glycomacropeptide may also enhance the function of a group of white blood cells called macrophages that patrol and scavenge pathogens and foreign substances (6, 7).
Components of whey may even help increase immunity and, in the digestive tract, lead to better absorption of nutrients (8). Therefore, whey protein may provide support to the healthy functioning of the immune system.
Increasing the Antioxidant Glutathione When examining the amino acid composition of whey, there is a notable amount of cysteine (9). This amino acid functions as the rate-limiter in the production of the antioxidant glutathione.
In our bodies, glutathione plays a critical role in the oxidation reduction and detoxification processes, which is important for our health (10). Consuming whey protein on a daily basis has been reported to increase glutathione levels in otherwise healthy individuals (11, 12).
Effects on Appetite Whey protein may also impart some positive effects on appetite by increasing the feeling of fullness after consumption (13). Several research studies have noted decreased food intake for meals following servings of whey protein. Over time, this can reduce overall energy consumption and support weight loss efforts.
In conclusion, whey is more than just a protein. With these unique features, it may deserve a spot in your diet to help you meet your daily protein and wellness needs.
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Whey More Than Protein: Unique Benefits of Whey Protein You May Not Know
