About Whey Protein Powder & Weight Loss
Whey protein is a high quality, easy to digest protein which is gluten free and suitable for those who are lactose intolerant, vegetarians and those who want a high quality protein without the fat or calories. It is made from a component in cow's milk and the whey protein is used to make protein powder. This protein powder is used to make protein shakes which can be used as meal replacements or to simply increase protein intake.
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Protein
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From healthy hair to healthy bones and muscles, protein forms the building blocks of the body. Every person needs protein on a daily basis. The amount recommended is usually between 45 and 65 grams a day, but for those wanting to lose weight, it is recommended that this amount goes up to anywhere between 75 grams or one gram per one pound of body weight.
Function
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Protein helps to support weight loss for a variety of reasons. Protein balances the blood sugar levels as it takes longer to digest and this keeps you fuller for longer, reducing the need to snack or have large meals. Protein gives you energy which encourages you to do more and it supports muscle repair and recovery. Healthy muscles speed up the metabolism and when the muscles repair fast after a workout, it encourages the person to do more intensive workouts, more frequently.
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Types
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Protein is found in a variety of foods. All meat contains high amounts of protein as well as dairy, eggs, beans, tofu and nuts. Whey protein is a protein derived from a component of cow's milk. It extremely low in lactose and completely safe for those who are lactose intolerant. It is very easy to digest and suitable for vegetarians and anyone needing to get a higher intake of protein without consuming a high amount of fat or calories.
Powder
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Protein powder comes in a variety of flavors and is used to make smoothies or shakes using water or milk. It is also used in protein bars and can be used in cooking but the most common way to consume whey protein powder is in a shake, as this is fast and convenient. Protein shakes can be used to substitute meals and when used to replace breakfast, it helps to balance blood sugar levels for the rest of the day. It kick starts the metabolism and keeps you satiated until lunch. It is also recommended that a shake be consumed within a half hour of exercise to help with muscle recovery.
Availability
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Whey protein powder is available from many stores including all health food stores and some drug stores and supermarkets. When choosing a powder keep in mind that there are two varieties of whey protein. One is whey protein concentrate and one is whey protein isolate. Whey protein isolate is the purest form of whey protein. There is a combination of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrate and fat levels in each type of powder so be sure that you choose a shake to suit your needs.
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