Learn what whey protein is and why it is so popular among bodybuilders who use pharmacological support and steroids.
Whey protein types
- Isolates. Whey protein isolates are high in protein - up to 95%. Despite this, there is very little fat in them, and sometimes there is none at all. True, there is no lactose in isolates, and some minerals necessary for the body. And they are expensive.
- Concentrates. Concentrates contain less protein than isolates - up to 80%. They also contain a small percentage of lactose, fat and other substances. Concentrates have a lower price.
- Isolates obtained by ion exchange. The main difference between these isolates is their high protein content. But on the other hand, the concentration of subfractional peptides, lactalbumin, glycomacropeptide, immunoglobulin is reduced. In addition, due to the beta-lactoglobulin contained in the composition, this type of protein causes severe allergic reactions.
- Microfilter isolates. This type of protein is created using various microfiltration methods and technologies. In one case, micro-filtration can be used, in the other, ultra-filtration or reverse osmosis. Sometimes the protein is created using dynamic membrane filtration as well as chromatography. Other common methods are electro-ultra and nano-filtration. Protein in such products contains over 90%, fatty substances and lactose are also preserved. It is clear that this whey protein is the most expensive.
- Hydrolysates obtained by hydrolysis. This product contains a large amount of dipeptides and protein, ready for assimilation by the body. The hydrolyzate is most often used to increase blood insulin, which allows protein to be synthesized in the muscles. Moreover, this does not affect human appetite in any way, which is another great advantage of this type of whey protein.
Whey Protein For Gaining Muscle Mass
Many scientists still claim that whey protein can help you gain muscle mass without strength training. But athletes are very skeptical about this, and they are of the opinion that training is the main condition for success.
Undoubtedly, whey protein athletes are able to improve their performance due to the intake of protein foods and amino acids necessary for muscle tissue synthesis. Therefore, opinions are divided: some argue that protein leads to muscle hypertrophy, others that the effect is negligible. One way or another, but protein supplements improve well-being and shape, therefore, they continue to be used all over the world.
Is protein equally safe for everyone?
Is protein equally safe for everyone? Many athletes do not think about this issue, but the medical interest around it does not subside. The protein, created using artificial filtration methods, is being actively studied by researchers. Some say that it can be used to treat various diseases (and they do!). Others argue that whey protein is not safe for all athletes - they say there is a risk group.
Scientists have proven that whey protein is effective in treating heart disease. It is also used for cancer. The main advantage of protein is that it supplies the body with leucine, which not only speeds up metabolism, but also increases a person's performance, his physiological characteristics and good spirits.
Another interesting study found that whey protein contains glutathione, which reduces the risk of cancer and malignant tumors. In rodents, the protein powder has shown another property - anti-inflammatory, not to mention how much the tumors in rats have shrunk.
Scientists from the American University have found that protein helps diabetics, as it normalizes blood sugar levels. But it is also important to remember what can cause allergic reactions.
Whey protein, if not absorbed by the body, can cause digestive problems and cause gas, nausea, bloating, and intestinal cramps. Scientists still cannot tell why whey protein behaves this way. There is an assumption that lactose intolerance is to blame. But some scientists speculate that the body can handle as little as 9 grams of protein, and gas starts when the amount is exceeded. Another common opinion is that protein is simply not digested, and bacteria immediately settle on it. All this greatly upsets the digestive mechanism.
Artificial sweeteners found in commercial powders sometimes cause nausea. To avoid symptoms, it is best to switch to unsweetened protein. If the symptoms do not go away at all, you need to stop taking protein and see a specialist.
Athletes who don't like lactose can use protein isolates. If lactose is tolerated, protein concentrates can be purchased: 85% protein will be enough to achieve a good result. Concentrates are also cheaper, so don't waste your money on isolates unless you are lactose allergic.
You can also try hydrolysates. Unfortunately, today they cannot boast of a low price. But on the other hand, they will provide the right amount of amino acids and insulin, help stimulate synthesis. Another tip: don't choose foods with a lot of sugar.
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