Effects of Whey Supplementation on Muscle Mass and Strength
The best known (and best studied) use of whey protein supplements, is for the purpose of increasing muscle mass and strength.
Whey protein is popular among athletes, bodybuilders, fitness models, as well as people looking to improve their performance in the gym.
Athletic Woman Holding a Container With Protein
The main effects of whey on muscle/strength are:
Building Blocks: It provides protein and amino acids, which serve as building blocks for increased muscle growth.
Hormones: It increases release of anabolic hormones that can stimulate muscle growth, such as Insulin (13).
Leucine: It is high in the amino acid Leucine, which is known to stimulate muscle protein synthesis at the molecular and genetic level (14, 15).
Fast Absorption: Whey protein is absorbed and utilized very quickly compared to other types of protein (16).