Whey is the the liquid portion of the milk that separates from the curds during the process of making cheese. Whey contains fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, and is a considered a complete protein because it contains all 9 essential amino acids. Because of this, and its ease of absorption, whey protein it one of the most popular sports nutrition supplements. It has been shown to support and encourage muscle growth, support fat burning, boost the immune system, improve insulin sensitivity, and decrease appetite. Additionally, whey protein is also shown to boost production of glutathione, your body’s master antioxidant.
Whey protein comes in three main forms: isolate, concentrate, and hydrolysate. Overall, whey protein isolate is the best alternative for those who have trouble digesting dairy products since the problematic compounds, lactose and casein, are removed.