5 Key ingredients to look for in your Whey Protein

When we talk of protein, it is important to remember that not every protein is equal as scientists will have you believe. Some protein forms including whey protein, may actually be superior in multifarious ways. They may help enhance muscle mass while cutting body fat in the bargain. Whey protein is a fusion of proteins that have been isolated from whey. In other words, this indicates the liquid component of milk separated at the time of producing cheese. Milk contains 20% of whey and 80% of casein with the former present in a watery state. Whenever cheese is manufactured, it leads to coagulation of the fatty components of milk and whey is separated from the same as a natural by product.

Thereafter, whey undergoes multiple stages of processing before transforming into what we know today as a whey supplement, shake or protein powder. Here are the 5 key ingredients that you can look out for in your whey protein.

Ingredients that you should keep a tab on

1. Amino Acids- Amino acids are key building blocks for muscle and strength. A high-quality whey protein supplement should have a stronger profile of amino acids including BCAAs (branched chain amino acids). Sub-ingredients in this category include L-Alanine, L-Glutamic Acid, L-Arginine, L-Cysteine, L-Isoleucine, L-Glycine, L-Aspartic Acid, L-Histidine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine, L-Proline, L-Tyrosine and L-Threonine among numerous others. They have a wide variety of benefits ranging from easier digestion and muscle development to fatigue relief, faster recovery of muscle tissues, higher strength and more.
2. Macros- Whey protein supplements will also contain some fats and carbohydrates in a balanced proportion. Watch out for around 20-24 grams of protein in every scoop while whey isolate protein powder may have 24-27 grams of protein for each serving. Carbohydrate content should not exceed 2-4 grams for each serving and 0-2 grams for each whey isolate protein serving. A suitable whey protein supplement should have a maximum of 4 grams in each scoop as far as fats are concerned. Whey protein manufacturers may also use some sugar for enhancing taste. This should not be present in a larger proportion. Buy whey protein powder without any added sugar.
3. Soya Lecithin- This is a commonly used emulsifier for adding a creamier texture to the protein shake in question. It also provides choline which helps in maintaining healthier muscle movements and metabolism while ensuring regulation of liver and kidney functions alongside.
4. Cocoa- Cocoa may be a key ingredient for several flavored whey protein supplements. Cocoa may take up a little protein space in some mixes although it has several other advantages for the skin, heart and brain alike as per studies.
5. Sucralose- Sucralose is mostly used in place of sugar for adding a little more sweetness to whey protein supplements. This does not have calories and is considered safe for every individual including those who are mild diabetics.

Whey protein supplements may help greatly in enhancing overall intake of BCAAs and proteins while aiding muscle growth at the same time. Proteins supplying all 9 vital amino acids are the best options as per experts and whey protein comes loaded with them. Whey protein is considered highly effective for stimulating growth and development in humans. Interestingly, human breast milk contains 60% whey in comparison to 20% whey content in cow’s milk.

Keep an eye out for the ingredients mentioned above while purchasing your next whey protein supplement. Read product labels carefully while ensuring that there are no additives or refined sugars that may cause problems in the long run. Here’s to literally whey-ing it right!