In today’s world, where there are many ‘gym freaks’ and fitness enthusiasts, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence, we see many people, especially youngsters who have the habit of consuming energy drinks and protein powders, to build muscle and help in their overall fitness health, and regime. In response to this, the market for these products has gone up in sales and is still on a steady rise. 

These products such as Protein powders help in muscle building, burning fat, repairing tissues, and increasing energy while sticking to a routine exercise regime. GymGoers usually start their day with the intake of protein shakes which will make them feel an increased surge in energy. Athletes also consume protein supplements to recover their bodies after a strenuous or intense workout session or day. This article let us talk about one such protein called Whey protein 

What is Whey protein?

The whey protein is obtained from the byproduct that is leftover liquid when milk is curdled when making cheese. This leftover liquid is then taken through a further process where it undergoes certain stages of purifying, filtering, and then drying. This dried powder is packaged and sold as whey protein that athletes and gymgoers consume. 

Whey protein is a complete protein as it contains all the essential amino acids required by our body for proper functioning. There are three types of whey proteins based on the percentage of protein they contain. The whey protein types are Whey protein concentrate, Whey protein isolate, and Whey protein hydrolysate. 

What are whey protein benefits?

Whey protein is not just restricted to gym people or bodybuilders it also has some health benefits and is used by people to increase their muscles and strength, is helpful in weight loss, improves the immune system, and also decreases the risk of heart-related diseases.

It is helpful in weight loss as it may reduce appetite, it is also seen that with the consumption of protein, there is a reduction in hunger by increasing hormones like peptides. As mentioned before protein supplements are mostly used by gym freaks and bodybuilders due to their high amino acid content which is very useful in building your body. 

Apart from athletes and gymgoers, it can also be used by older people to build their muscles and strength. One of the important benefits of whey protein apart from muscle building is its ability to reduce the risk of heart-related disease. The factors for heart disease are the weight of the body, blood pressure, and the sugar content in the blood. The consumption of whey protein helps in the reduction of all the factors that promote heart disease and hence keeps you away from the disease.

Side effects of overconsumption 

Whey proteins are considered to be safe for adults when taken in the proper quantity and dosage as required. This is very important as every individual is different in their needs, goals, and with regards to their body mass index (BMI) as well.

Although the consumption of whey protein is beneficial for gymgoers, athletes, and any other fitness enthusiasts, overconsumption and overdose can prove to be quite adverse and can negatively affect one’s health and body. There can be many side effects and symptoms such as bloating, headache, reduced appetite, tiredness, thirst, nausea, and acne. 

Some people may be affected who are intolerant to lactose and the preference needs to be given to such whey protein that has less lactose content. Allergic to milk, individuals who are allergic to milk and its products need to choose another form of protein that is hypoallergenic. Some will also experience digestion issues initially they can start with a smaller intake.

Conclusion

In short, the required quantity and dose are essential in the consumption of whey protein powders, as they can be equally beneficial as well as detrimental to overall health. Hence any protein powder and energy drinks should be taken with the proper guidance based on the requirements of the body. Whey protein can be included in your daily food diet by using it in smoothies, oatmeals, or baking foods of the protein intake. In the track of gaining muscle and building your body, you should not neglect or leave behind the proper maintenance of health.