Whey protein constitutes 20 percent of total cow's milk protein, with casein protein making up the remaining 80 percent. Whey is not a single protein; it is a collection of proteins isolated from whey. Although consuming milk provides little of the protein, supplements are widely available in beverage, powder and bar form.
Features
Whey protein is made as a coproduct of cheese manufacturing. During the pasteurization process, the hardened, curdled portion of milk fat is separated from the liquid. The curd is casein, and the remaining liquid is whey. This liquid whey is then filtered and processed.
Types
There are three types of whey protein: isolate, concentrate and hydrolysates. Each contains different levels of fat, cholesterol and lactose. Fat and lactose are removed from whey protein isolate, which makes the protein more concentrated. This type of whey protein is typically lower in bioactive compounds than the other types. Whey protein concentrate contains low levels of cholesterol and fat and has higher levels of bioactive compounds than the isolate. The concentrate also contains lactose. Whey protein hydrolysates are best absorbed by the body because they are partially hydrolyzed and predigested, according to the McKinley Health Center.
Medical Benefits
When protein is better absorbed and used by the human body than any other protein, according to the McKinley Health Center. Moreover, the National Diary Council states that the protein contains high levels of branched-chain and essential amino acids for muscle production and maintenance. Whey protein also improves immune functioning by increasing levels of glutathione, an antioxidant, in the body.
Considerations
Unfortunately, milk only contains about 1 percent whey protein, which makes supplementation essential to obtain any significant health benefits. Although there is currently no evidence to suggest supplementing with whey protein causes short-term side effects, the effects of long-term use is not known. Whey protein supplements are sold over the counter and are not subject to regulation by the FDA. Because of this, there is no guarantee than any supplement you purchase will be safe or effective. Consult your doctor before beginning supplementation with whey protein or any other product.
Allergy Information
Milk protein allergy is very common in children, although most outgrow the allergy before the age of three years. According to MayoClinic.com, milk protein allergy may develop in response to casein protein, whey protein or both. Symptoms range in severity from mild to life-threatening and total avoidance is the only completely effective treatment available.
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