According to Men's Total Fitness founder Travis Van Slooten, hydrolyzed whey protein is "the Cadillac of whey proteins" because it has unique characteristics that set it apart from other forms. Whey protein comes in powdered form, which makes it convenient to transport and store---no refrigeration required. Van Slooten explains that hydrolyzed whey protein goes through a process called hydrolysis, which allows your body to absorb it more quickly than other sources. In addition, your body may be able to digest more hydrolyzed protein than other whey proteins, meaning you'll get the most bang for your buck. Before using any supplement, though, you should ask your doctor whether it is appropriate for you.
Allergy Prevention
While you may assume that protein is only good for building muscle, scientific research indicates that hydrolyzed whey protein may actually have benefits for your immune system as well. According to an analysis of 15 scientific studies published in the February 2010 issue of the journal "Current Medical Research and Opinion," supplementation of hydrolyzed whey protein may be effective in reducing the incidence of allergic diseases in children who are at high risk for such conditions. However, you should not rely solely on protein supplements to ward off any diseases or conditions.
Improved Strength Gains
Despite what many supplement companies tell you, it is possible to gain strength without the use of whey protein powder. However, research indicates that the use of whey protein supplements such as hydrolyzed whey protein may enhance the effects of resistance training. According to research from the December 2004 edition of the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition," supplementation of whey protein in conjunction with resistance training, or weight lifting, resulted in greater strength gains than training alone. Because of the high absorption rate of hydrolyzed whey protein, this supplement may provide more superior results than other protein sources.
Increased Insulin Response
In addition to the superior bioavailability of hydrolyzed whey protein, the supplement also demonstrates another effect that may benefit muscle-building efforts. According to research from the July 2009 issue of "Amino Acids," hydrolyzed whey protein supplementation triggered a 43 percent increase in insulin levels, compared to whey protein isolate. Because insulin helps deliver nutrients into your cells, including your muscle cells, using hydrolyzed whey protein rather than other protein sources may result in superior nutrient delivery, and possibly, superior muscle growth and recovery.
According to the fitness website Intense-Workout.com, creating an insulin spike---a rapid increase in insulin levels, such as that triggered by hydrolyzed whey protein---may be especially advantageous after a workout to assist in muscle development.
References
- Men's Total Fitness: Hydrolyzed Whey Protein: The "Cadillac" of Whey Proteins
- "Current Medical Research and Opinion"; Meta-Analysis of the Evidence for a Partially Hydrolyzed 100% Whey Formula for the Prevention of Allergic Diseases; H. Szajewska, A. Horvath; February 2010
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition"; Protein Nutrition, Exercise and Aging; W.J. Evans; December 2004
- "Amino Acids"; Human Insulinotropic Response to Oral Ingestion of Native and Hydrolysed Whey Protein; O. Power, A. Hallihan, P. Jakeman; July 2009
- Intense-Workout.com: Post Workout Meal Nutrition --- What to Eat After a Workout
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