What Is Whey Powder Used For?

Whey protein powder is a good way to get more high-quality protein into your daily diet. Whey powder can be used in a variety of ways as a nutritional supplement.

Identification

• Whey protein is made from cow's milk. About 20 percent of the protein in milk is whey protein; the other 80 percent is casein protein.

Benefits

• Whey protein powder contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs daily. This is especially important for athletes and people that exercise on a regular basis. Whey powder is a rich source of BCAAs (branched chain amino acids) that also are produced naturally in the body.

Potential

• Whey protein powder can help you gain lean muscle tissue. Protein is the building block of muscle tissue, and it helps the body repair cells, muscles and bones. It also is a source of energy and helps regulate metabolism.

Types

• There are two types of whey protein powder. Whey protein isolate is the purest form of whey protein. It contains 90 percent whey protein and little fat. Whey protein concentrate has 29 percent to 89 percent whey protein and a higher amount of fat and lactose.

Uses

• Whey protein powder comes in various flavors and can be used in recipes to add protein to your diet. Whey powder often is used to make pancakes and oatmeal, and it also is used in fruit smoothies. Whey powder also is available in an unflavored form.