Whey More Information: My Talk with The Whey Protein Institute « Back

Summertime fun! That’s what I see all around me when I take my dog for a walk. Running, walking, cycling, playing baseball- all require energy. As you gear up for activity this summer, good nutrition is essential in fueling an active lifestyle.

I've written before about whey protein, a high-quality protein found naturally in dairy foods, helping us to get the most out of workouts by speeding muscle recovery after exercise, and helping build and maintain lean muscle. During this time of increased interest in health and wellness, and fitness, I spoke with Nicole Kretsch, Director of Awareness at the Whey Protein Institute to share more information about whey protein with you.

What type(s) does whey protein come in?
The three most common types of whey protein are whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein. Whey protein isolate contains a higher concentration of protein than whey protein concentrate because much of the lactose, fat, and other ingredients are removed. Both types offer health benefits and are found in a variety of foods and powders. Hydrolyzed whey protein is created by breaking down the protein chains into smaller chains of amino acids called “peptides”, making the whey protein more easily absorbed by the body. This type of whey protein is most commonly used in infant formulas and sports and medical nutrition products.

Where can people purchase whey protein?
Whey protein can be found in powders, drink mixes, snack bars, and various other foods at your local grocery store, health and nutrition store, or online. To find out if a product contains whey protein, check the ingredient list located on the label. Products that contain whey protein as a primary source will have whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, or hydrolyzed whey protein near the beginning of the ingredient list.

How might people incorporate whey protein into their daily routine?
Incorporating whey protein into a daily routine is simple. Try adding an unflavored whey protein to your yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, or favorite recipes without having to worry about altering the taste.

What is your favorite way to consume whey protein?
Every morning I mix 1 scoop of unflavored whey protein isolate with a glass of chocolate milk as part of my breakfast.

Where can people go to learn more about whey protein?
To find more information about whey protein, visit the Whey Protein Institute website, www.WheyOfLife.org. On the website you will find whey protein FAQ’s, products containing whey protein, the latest news and research articles, and much more! Remember to sign up for our e-newsletter while you’re there and don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter (@WheyProteinInst) and our YouTube channel.

We want to hear from you -- What is your favorite way to consume whey protein? Enter our Giveaway:
Midwest Dairy and The Whey Protein Institute want to give one reader a whey-fitness prize bundle, which includes whey protein samples, blender bottle, lunch bag and wicking gear. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment to this post with your favorite way to consume whey protein by 7 a.m. this Friday, July 13. A winner will be selected based on their creative use of whey protein. It is not necessary to "log in" to submit your comment. Good luck!