Wednesday, February 8, 2012

The Benefits of Whey Protein to the Body

Whey protein is becoming an interest in the field of science and medicine because of its therapeutic properties. Clinical studies have shown that whey protein may possess anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. The key to a healthy life may just lie in this mixture of these globular proteins.

A Background on Whey Protein

Composed of mixed globular proteins derived from whey; whey protein is actually a by-product of cheese production, (the liquid material). It is available in the market as a dietary supplement and it is used in alternative medicine. This type of protein sparks interest in the health care industry, as clinical tests show it possesses significant health benefits. In rodents for example, whey protein had been found to exert anti-inflammatory effects. Although human studies are yet to be done, the result of the test can also be related to the processes in the human body.

The process of cheese production gives birth to whey protein. After the milk coagulates, it leaves a liquid from which whey is derived. This liquid contains milk proteins lactalbumin and some minerals. After the coagulated milk is removed, this liquid is further processed to extract the proteins for human consumption. This is where whey protein is born. Processing of the protein involves the removal of fat or lipids from the liquid whey only leaving the essential proteins behind.

The whey derived from milk is composed of several types of proteins, this includes beta-lacatalbumin (occurs in greater amounts), alpha-lactalbumin, serum albumin and immunoglobins. These proteins contribute greatly in human functioning and in health.