Protein is one of the essential nutrients needed to fuel your body. It is necessary for building strong bones, developing muscle, producing healthy skin and restoring other tissues in your body. If you’re looking for a quick and effective way to increase your protein intake, you may have looked into supplementing meals and post-workout snacks with protein shakes. If you are new to the world of protein shakes, you’ll soon discover not all are created equal. One of the best forms of powdered protein is whey protein. Whey protein provides numerous health benefits and helps your body get the most out of your workouts. Here are six smart reasons to add whey protein to your diet:
1. Lose fat, but keep muscle: In a diet study that looked at whey protein intake versus an isocaloric mix beverage, the participants who were given whey lost a significantly greater amount of body fat (6.1% total) and better maintained their muscles.
2. Improve size and strength: A Baylor University study showed that men participating in resistance training that were given a whey protein had greater increases in fat-free mass and muscle strength than those who received a placebo. The study found that consuming whey protein one hour before and one hour after was key for optimal benefits.
3. Decrease hunger: In general, protein makes you feel fuller longer. But one study found that consuming a beverage with 50g of whey protein significantly reduced levels of ghrelin (a hormone that tells your brain you’re hungry) up to four hours later.
4. Fight cancer: Several studies have indicated that whey protein helps fight common forms of cancer, such as prostate and colon.
5. Cope with stress: If you’re stressed, consider reaching for a whey protein shake. One study found that participants exposed to experimental stress, but had consumed whey protein, experienced fewer symptoms of depression and seemed to be in a better frame of mind than those who did not.
6. Aids immune system: Men involved in a strenuous aerobic activity study suffered significantly reduced glutathione levels, which can affect the nervous, gastrointestinal and immune systems. However, those participants given whey protein supplements experienced a significantly lesser reduction in glutathione levels.
Whether you’re looking to lose body fat, improve your muscle physique, or are trying to reach your optimal health, whey protein fulfills all these goals. Since not all protein shakes are created equal, it’s important that you read the label of the product you’re considering very carefully. One product to consider is Centre Whey Protein Isolate, available at http://www.andsworld.com. It has 26 grams of whey protein per serving; it’s sweetened with Stevia, and is all-natural and easy to mix. This fat-free, cholesterol-free and sugar-free product also comes in three delicious flavors: chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. Centre Whey Protein Isolate is a low-cost, high reward addition to your diet. The advantages of whey protein are undeniable. The question is not “Why whey protein?” but “Why wait to try whey protein?” The sooner you take advantage of this protein, the sooner you’ll enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.
Resources:
http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/what-to-eat/6-reasons-you-should-be-using-whey-protein
