If you’re one of those who live an active lifestyle, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard about whey protein. In fact, most people who work out swear by using whey protein as part of their daily routine because it gives them the energy they need to power through difficult workouts without feeling exhausted after.
Now if you’re still thinking about giving whey protein a try, here are five things that you need to know about it first:
- Whey protein helps to regulate your blood sugar.
A lot of people don’t know this, but several studies actually revealed that whey protein can help to regulate blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes. According to a study by the BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care, diabetic participants who consumed 15 grams of whey protein 10 minutes before eating had a lower risk for hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels after eating. These participants were also able to maintain their blood sugar levels throughout the day.
- Whey protein builds muscle mass.
If you’re working out to gain muscle, you have to include whey protein in your diet. Since protein is essential in building muscle mass, consuming whey protein helps you gain more when working out and prevents muscle loss that’s mostly related to ageing. A 2021 study also revealed that whey protein can help people with illnesses to gain more muscle and even promote faster wound healing to patients who have injuries or those who have undergone surgery.
- Whey protein aids in weight loss.
Protein is considered the most satiating macronutrient by scientists, which is why it’s linked to faster weight loss. According to research, whey protein consumption helps to reduce calorie intake and increase energy expenditure by up to 100 calories per day. When you take whey protein, you feel more full for a longer time, which helps to cut cravings and reduce those late-night snacks by up to 50%.
Now if you’re working out to build muscle, adding whey protein into your diet will help you lose the excess weight while gaining more muscle mass.
- Whey protein helps you recover faster.
Do you hate how sore your body gets after a good workout? If you do, then you’d be glad to know that whey protein helps to reduce muscle soreness, fatigue and exhaustion, so you can still go on with your daily routine after going to the gym. With faster recovery, you can also get back to your workout the next day without having to be limited by soreness or tiredness.
- Whey protein has other health benefits.
Finally, taking whey protein doesn’t just improve your workout performance, boost your energy and help you to recover faster. Several studies have also proven its other health benefits, like lowering blood pressure levels, reducing the signs and symptoms of depression, and even protecting against dreaded diseases like hepatitis and cancer.
So, if you’re still thinking about whether you should use whey protein or not, let this be your sign to give it a go now!