Protein is the building block of muscle, hair, skin and nails. It is a made up of amino acids that are called "essential" and "non-essential." Whey protein is a complete protein because it has all the essential amino acids present. It is derived from the milk of cows and has many characteristics.
Function
Whey protein is found in a powder form. It can be taken completely by itself in the form of a shake, it can be mixed into a smoothie with other ingredients or it can be added to other foods, such as yogurt and fruit, to make a snack or high-protein dessert. Any liquid can be used, such as water, milk, milk alternatives or juice. It mixes easily with a spoon, shaker cup or blender.
Features
The proteins that make up 100 percent whey protein include whey isolate, whey concentrate and whey peptides. It has little to no carbs, fat, cholesterol and sodium, and it does not contain gluten. This is the protein portion of wheat.
Flavors
The flavors of 100 percent whey protein vary. Extreme chocolate, strawberry banana, vanilla ice cream, mocha cappuccino, cookies and cream and caramel toffee fudge are all examples.
Sweeteners
Whey protein is sugared with either artificial or natural sweeteners. Aspartame, acesulfame potassium and sucralose are examples of artificial sweeteners, and stevia is an example of a natural sweetener.
Size
You can get 100 percent whey protein in individual packets or in containers. The containers are generally 1, 2, 5, 10 and 17.5 pounds. There are also 5-pound bags available. The containers have a plastic scoop inside. One scoop of protein can contain anywhere from 17 to 24 grams of protein, depending on the manufacturer.
Considerations
Bodybuilders use 100 percent whey protein because of its high digestibility. They use it in a post-workout shake when the muscles have been broken down. It is often coupled with other supplements and a fast-absorbing carbohydrate, such as grape juice or honey, to shuttle the nutrients into the muscle cells at a fast pace and kick-start the recovery process.
People trying to lose weight often use whey protein in conjunction with a multiple meal plan in which they alternate between a shake and a whole food meal every few hours throughout the day.
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