Natural whey protein is consumed by many athletes, bodybuilders and for those recovering from illness. Natural whey protein has the highest calculated biological value of all proteins, is low in carbohydrate and fat. It is scientifically proven that quality protein such as this is easily absorbed and metabolized which is ideal for high performance athletes . Often also used in weight loss programs It is a by product of the cheesemaking process and suitable for most with the exception of vegans.
It has also been found that the major and minor protein components of natural whey protein have important anti disease effects. Dried natural whey protein is soluble, easily digested and has a high calculated biological value. The three forms of natural whey protein available in protein supplements are isolate, concentrate and hydrolysate. The concentrated form contains a higher level of lactose and is low in fat and cholesterol, so may be unsuitable for lactose intolerant individuals. The isolate form has been processed to remove the fat and lactose and is better suited to lactose intolerant individuals. The hydrolysate is the more expensive form as it is pre-digested and is more easily absorbed. It is generally felt that the isolate and concentrate forms have a better taste.
Natural whey protein is available in all three forms and any processes used to prepare the products are natural. Products are usually labelled as natural whey protein but may also be labelled bioactive and/or undenatured. Undenatured forms are often used to increase antioxidant levels in patients suffering from suppressed immune systems or diseases that are degenerative affecting the immune system. The increase in antioxidant levels has been attributed to undenatured forms of protein containing cysteine that is essential in antioxidant production. This bioactivity of Natural whey protein makes it ideal for use in many different situations either for health or fitness.
Most Natural whey protein products contain a mixture of all of the forms but there are some natural whey protein products that are the individual forms. It is often sold flavoured usually with vanilla or chocolate in the soluble dry powder form that can be mixed with milk, water or fruit juice. High performance athletes and bodybuilders have included it in their diets as a means of ingesting an additional form of low fat, low cholesterol and easily digestible protein.
The use of natural whey protein powders is spreading as it can easily be used to maintain a healthy balance for those reducing dietary fats or meat products to achieve better health. If using as part of a weight loss program always take the advice of a medical or other appropriately qualified professional beforehand. When using natural whey protein products for any purpose use as directed by the manufacture. Whether choosing for weight loss, general supplement or high performance athletes and body builders a good protein supplement is natural whey protein.
