not quite reaping the rewards you desire? There’s nothing wrong with that feeling. After all, for many, the whole point in going to the gym is to continually create a better version of themselves. One often-overlooked way to gain greater results from your efforts and possibly increase your quality of life is through the simple addition of one item to your routine: whey protein. There are numerous potential health benefits from consuming whey protein and we’ve narrowed it down to the top six.
Lose Fat and Preserve Muscle
Have you reduced your caloric intake hoping to shed some flab? If so, you might be interested to learn that researchers in Minnesota conducted a 12-week study where subject’s daily caloric intake was reduced by 500 calories. They then gave some participants whey and the rest were given an isocaloric mix beverage. Those consuming whey lost a significantly greater amount of body fat (6.1% total) and better preserved their muscles. If you have an urge to snack on something, try a whey protein bar.
Increase Size and Strength
Hitting the gym hard hoping to make strength gains? Researchers at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, took 19 men performing resistance training over a 10-week period and gave some of them 14 grams of whey and casein protein along with 6 grams of free amino acids, while giving the rest a 20-gram placebo. Those who consumed the whey had greater increases in fat-free mass and muscle strength. The key is to follow the example of the study and consume whey one hour before and after the exercises.
Reduce Hunger
Hungry? Whey could help you reduce hunger and avoid developing a King of Queens character Doug Heffernan-like physique. Australian researchers had 28 obese men consume four different drinks. Those who consumed the beverage containing 50 grams of whey had significantly reduced levels of ghrelin (a hormone that tells your brain you’re hungry) up to four hours later. So instead of munching on unhealthy party snacks, drink a protein shake beforehand. With a little luck and a slimmer waistline, you might find a Carrie Heffernan who’s actually nice.