Whey products are a by-product of cheese making. Whey offers an inexpensive and convenient protein source. The Michigan State University Milk and Cheese website explains that whey protein occurs naturally in milk, making up 20 percent of milk protein. MayoClinic.com states there's preliminary evidence showing that whey protein assists weight gain in some people with HIV.
Excessive protein consumption carries health risks, however. Consult your doctor before changing your protein intake. Whey products usually come in powdered form. Keep the whey from getting lumpy by following guidelines for mixing whey for drinks or recipes.
Whey Drink or Smoothie
Step 1
Pour cold water or other desired liquid into a sports bottle or other container that seals securely. Alternatively, if you're mixing the whey product at home, pour the liquid in the blender.
Step 2
Add a scoop of whey. Use a funnel if the bottle has a small opening.
Step 3
Close the bottle securely. Shake the bottle vigorously for 30 seconds to mix the whey product. Alternatively, put the lid on the blender and turn the blender on high. With a blender, you may add ice cubes, frozen fruit, frozen juice mix or other ingredients to create a smoothie or shake. Use the "Pulse" button or turn the blender on and off in 20 second cycles to help blend the ice cubes or frozen fruit.
For Recipes
Step 1
Pour the liquid for the recipe into the main mixing bowl.
Step 2
Mix whey with other dry ingredients, such as flour, gluten-free baking mix, baking powder and spices, into a separate bowl. Stir the ingredients with a mixing spoon in a circle and from side to side to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3
Whisk or stir the liquid gently while slowly pouring the dry ingredients into the liquid. Add the whey mixture as slowly as you can while keeping the liquid moving to avoid clumping.
Step 4
Mash any lumps against the side of the bowl with the back of spoon and stir them in. Stir gently as some batters become stiff or won't rise correctly if over-stirred.
On-the-Go Drink
Step 1
Measure the whey product into a food storage tub or zipper bag. For example, measure one scoop for one serving. Keep the whey separate from the liquid when you carry it with you to make a whey drink on-the-go for camping or work. Keeping the whey dry will prevent spoilage when refrigeration is not available.
Step 2
Pour liquid, such as cold water, into an insulated sports bottle or other container.
Step 3
Add the whey to the container when you want to make the whey drink. Put the lid on the container. Shake the container for at least 30 seconds to mix the product thoroughly.
Tips and Warnings
- Some drink bottles designed for mixing protein powers include a spoke-shaped mixing insert to help mix the powder when you shake the container. Find one in the sporting goods section of a variety store or with the protein powders in a drug store. Mix 1 tbsp. baking soda with warm water and leave it soaking in the sports bottle or other container you use for whey if the bottle develops an odor. Some whey products won't work for cooking. Check the label or product brochure for information on the specific product. A small blender and a power inverter for your vehicle are handy for making smoothies on the road. A power inverter plugs into the cigarette lighter and allows you to run a small appliance. Add whey to dips or hummus, a spread made from garbanzo beans, to increase protein intake when appetite is low.
- Whey is perishable when mixed. Keep your bottle refrigerated or in a cooler. Using ice as part of the liquid will help keep the whey chilled for a carry-along protein drink. Insulated bottles also help to keep the whey cold. Consult your doctor before making dietary changes.
Things You'll Need
- Sports drink bottle designed for mixing protein powder
- Funnel
- Blender (optional)
- 2 Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
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