All the constituents of whey protein provide high levels of essential and branched chain amino acids that play a vital role in maintaining tissue and preventing catabolic actions during exercise. It’s also a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins and minerals. In addition, whey protein contains a number of other proteins that positively affect immune functions such as antimicrobial activity.

Here are more specific benefits of whey:

1. The amino acids in whey protein produce bioactive peptides such as lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin, immunoglobulins, glycomacropeptides and lactoperoxidase, which are intensely immune-enhancing.

2. It has been proven to be the best protein to support muscle growth.

3. It has anabolic effects due to its high leucine content and the fact that it increases the anabolic hormone insulin, which makes it very beneficial after a workout.

4. It is the most readily digested and absorbed protein.

5. It reduces fat and maintains muscle mass, especially when consumed in the isolate form.

6. It helps to reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.

7. It is known to improve insulin resistance.

8. It impacts cortisol balance and is shown to reduce cortisol in the evening when consumed in mid-afternoon.

9. It helps regulate appetite, and studies have shown it can lead you to consume less in the following meal when taken in mid-afternoon.

10. It can help to lower blood pressure.

11. It reduces stress and depression symptoms.

12. It provides a source of cysteine, a precursor of the potent antioxidant glutathione.