Why do I need protein, and why use Whey?
There are 2 nutrients the body can't store - one is water, the other is protein. When we are dehydrated we feel thirsty, unfortunately we have no sense to warn us when we are running low on protein. Your body needs protein for health and survival. Foods are classified as either carbohydrates, fats, or proteins. Carbs and fats are considered the bad guys that cause us to gain unwanted weight - for this reason we need to limit how much of these we eat. By supplementing Whey you can receive life supporting protein without excess carbs and fats that lead to body fat gain.
How much protein should I eat?
World health authorities suggest around 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults as the minimum daily required intake. If exercising regularly or dieting then you'll likely need more than this. Bodybuilders and athletes try to eat 2 to 3 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight, sometimes even more. This amount of protein is hard to meet through a normal diet without consuming too many fats and carbs along with it so that's where a concentrated protein source like whey protein can be very helpful.
I'm not a bodybuilder, why should I use Whey shakes?
To maintain a healthier condition then a whey protein shake as a mid morning and mid afternoon protein meal is a great way to control calories and maintain higher energy (without hitting that mid afternoon wall). The benefits of protein are numerous but when it comes to the way you look and feel Whey may help raise metabolism, burn calories, block cravings, support immunity, and increase energy. It's common practice to have a Whey shake soon after exercise - this is believed to be the best step you can take to protect your valuable lean muscle tissue.
Is Whey a better choice than normal foods?
People who are trying to stay at their peak aim to eat 6 smaller meals per day - this method of eating is believed to promote healthier body composition. Eating 6 meals per day can be difficult - Whey protein powder makes this simpler to achieve (and more economical). Whey is also absorbed very easily by your body so it is less likely to stress your digestive system than other foods.
So bodybuilders use Whey for muscle building and weight gain - but I've also heard it can help me lose weight? How can both be true?
When consuming bodybuilder sized amounts (250g to 300g of protein per day or more) and training hard and heavy then muscle weight gain is the result. On the other hand by taking smaller amounts of Whey to replace higher calorie foods much more successful and faster weightloss can be achieved.
I'm a woman and afraid extra protein will cause me to bulk up with large muscles? Is this true?
No. Unless you are following an intensive bodybuilding training program you will not bulk up. Many women find a protein shake mid afternoon is a great way to perk up energy, block cravings and help them eat a smaller dinner. Women who are training hard and trying to lean up will also benefit from a postworkout shake just like men. Protein helps provide the components to maximise health, immunity and energy - when combined with the right training your body will look lean, toned, and better than ever.