Why Whey?

I can't say it enough. Whey Protein is one of the most important supplements for women, especially for women who exercise, are wanting to lose weight, are over age 40, diabetic, and those with digestive issues. I talk about it all the time at TUF and remind our members constantly, but know that very few are actually making whey protein a part of their daily diet.

So here is a breakdown of why whey is so good for our bodies and health.

AMINO ACIDS - All sources of protein contain some amino acids, needed to repair and build muscle. However, whey protein is a naturally complete protein, meaning it contains ALL of the essential amino acids and the richest source of Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs).
BCAAs are metabolized directly into muscle tissue for immediate recovery after exercise (unlike other essential AAs).

LEUCINE - Part of the BCAAs, Leucine is the main AA in promoting muscle synthesis and growth. You would need to eat five eggs to get the same amount of Leucine in one (100 calorie)serving of whey protein, which has the highest concentration of this important AA.
Leucine plays a major role in preserving lean muscle mass while promoting fat loss.

GLUTAMINE - The most common AA found in muscles, over 60% of skeletal muscle is Glutamine.
Good quality whey protein contains added Glutamine.  In addition to improving strength, recovery and stamina, it also increases ability to secrete Human Growth Hormone, which is our "Youth" hormone. HGH helps to metabolize body fat and support new muscle growth. Glutamine is also useful for dieters to help lose body fat while preserving lean muscle.

Glutamine is also one of the most important nutrients for intestinal health.  It aids intestinal function and digestion.  Those with IBS, Crohn's, ulcers, food allergies or intolerances that cause gas, bloating and stomach upset really need this AA.  It also supports a healthy immune system.

WEIGHTLOSS - The body requires more energy to digest protein than other foods (thermic effect) and as a result, you burn more calories with more protein in your diet.

Whey protein contains very few carbohydrates.

Protein helps to stabilize blood glucose levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the blood stream.  This controls hunger by lowering insulin levels and making it easier for the body to burn fat.

Whey protein helps to stimulate the release of two appetite-suppressing hormones.

MUSCLE - Since we lose muscle as part of the aging process, we need to pay special attention to resistance training.  When muscle tissue is broken down with strength training, if there is not enough protein in your diet to repair that muscle, you could actually lose more muscle!
Whey protein is the "fastest" protein and is absorbed immediately to those muscles for quick recovery and growth.

A serving of approx. 20 grams of whey protein immediately following a strength workout will ensure that optimal protein synthesis will occur, for more muscle repair and growth.

BONES - Protein is needed to help preserve and improve bone density. Studies show that whey protein provides greater bone (and muscle) support than casein, the primary protein found in milk.

Whey protein is easily digested and helps to support every aspect of your health as well as protecting from the risk of cancer, Type 2 diabetes and other illnesses. It will also give you more energy. Quality whey also
contains calcium, B vitamins and minerals.

For those who don't "do" breakfast, a protein smoothie made with Greek yogurt, fruit, whey and healthy fat like coconut oil is a complete and healthy meal. Getting 20 grams of protein first thing in the morning will help with appetite control, fat burning and energy the rest of the day.
Whey protein shakes also make the best mid-morning and/or afternoon snacks. Pre-made drinks and protein bars contain whey and are fine occasionally, but it is best to make your own to avoid artificial sweeteners and processed ingredients.

We recommend and sell Designer Whey and NOW Foods Whey Protein powders. These brands have a reputation for quality manufacturing and ingredients. And they use the natural sweetener Stevia.
You can find cheaper brands but there is a reason why they are cheaper! Traces of heavy metals have been found in lower quality protein, they contain artificial sweeteners and they are also harder to digest.
Plus they don't taste very good!

So you see, Whey is the Whey to Go!!