Whey Protein

There are a number of different whey protein powders on the market which can make it overwhelming to understand the differences between them, and know what is the best one to choose. 

Lucky for you, EHPlabs have created 2 different premium quality whey protein powders, with their own unique benefits. So, let’s dive into how they work and which one is right for you!

How does whey protein work in your body? 

Whey protein digestion begins in the stomach and continues through the small intestine. Hydrochloric acid and enzymes called proteases break down protein into smaller chains of amino acids. Amino acids are joined by peptides, which are broken by proteases. These smaller chains of amino acids move into the small intestine where absorption takes place. Microvilli are finger-like structures that increase the surface area of the small intestine and allow for maximal absorption of amino acids, amongst other nutrients. Once absorbed, amino acids release into the bloodstream and other parts of the body, initiating tissue growth and repair (including muscle building). Whey protein stimulates muscle protein synthesis due to its high leucine content- the most anabolic (growth-promoting) amino acid. This allows whey protein to be absorbed and utilized rapidly, with its absorption rate estimated at roughly 10g per hour. 

What does whey protein do for your body? 

There are a number of whey protein benefits! Being a complete source of protein, it contains all nine essential amino acids which serve as the building block for muscle growth. It also plays a vital role in the growth, repair and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. 

Other benefits of whey protein also include: 

• Lowers systolic blood pressure; high blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease.
• Assists with balancing blood sugar levels.
• Reduces inflammation; with findings showing that whey protein supplementation reduces C-reactive protein (CRP) which is a key marker of inflammation.
• May have beneficial effects on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• May reduce oxidative stress and increase antioxidant defenses. 
• Reduces LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
• Has a satiating effect, making it a great addition for weight loss/maintenance support. 

Should I take whey protein?

It can be difficult to reach your protein requirements from diet alone, and it can be quite expensive too. Therefore, in order to meet your protein requirements and optimize muscle growth, supplementation of whey protein is of great benefit!

At EHPlabs, we offer the best whey protein for beginners and regular users. Our high-quality protein blends contain zero added sugar and are formulated with 100% natural flavors. Both of our unique formulas also contain probiotics, vitamins and anti-bloating digestive enzymes for optimal health, digestion and recovery benefits. 

ISOPEPT consists of 27g of the highest quality protein from hydrolyzed whey protein isolate (WPI); which is rapidly absorbed to fuel and replenish fatigued muscles, making it ideal for post-workout consumption. It also contains ashwagandha and L-theanine to help increase relaxation and reduce stress, which can be of particular benefit after an intense training session. 

OxyWhey delivers 25g of two phase digestive proteins; whey protein concentrate (WPC) and whey protein isolate (WPI). WPC takes longer to digest and absorb than WPI, which helps to keep you fuller for longer. OxyWhey is an excellent all-round protein supplement for both weight loss and maintenance support. To help manage cravings, chromium picolinate has been added due to its benefits of balancing blood sugar levels to further assist with appetite control. 

When should I take whey protein?

It’s beneficial to consume whey protein at any time of the day. You can take it first thing in the morning upon waking up, have it as a shake with your main meal (particularly one that may be low in protein) or you can even add it to any of your sweet recipes (oats, smoothie, muffins, pancakes). This will provide your muscles with the amino acids necessary to initiate protein synthesis for muscle-growth and repair, whilst keeping you full in between meals. 

With that being said, it's particularly important to consume protein soon after your workout for optimal post-exercise recovery, as muscle protein synthesis is mostly accentuated in the time period after training. 

How long does it take for whey protein to work?

Whey protein isolate is rapidly absorbed, therefore, it quickly provides your muscles with the amino acids necessary to initiate protein synthesis for muscle-growth and has an immediate effect. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that despite it being a “fast-acting” source of protein, lean muscle growth, increased performance and optimal recovery takes time and requires consistency in training, diet, rest and supplementation. Therefore, it’s recommended to regularly consume a whey protein supplement for more long-term benefits. 

Does whey protein build muscle?

Whilst whey protein alone can’t build muscle, it most definitely plays an important role when it comes to increasing muscle mass, strength and improving exercise performance. Being a complete source of protein, whey protein provides all the essential amino acids and increases the release of anabolic hormones such as insulin to stimulate muscle growth. 

When it comes to muscle building, it's also essential to provide your body with adequate energy (calories), rest, protein and progressive overload when exercising. 

Does protein burn fat? 

Due to the high thermic effect, a high protein intake has been associated with higher metabolic rate and greater calories burned. Protein also preserves muscle mass which helps keep your metabolic rate higher as you lose fat whilst following a weight loss diet. Previous studies have found that eating 25% of the daily calories in protein has been found to reduce carvings and the desire for late-time snacking by half. This can be explained by the satiety effect protein has due to its slow digestion rate and is of great importance for those who are in a calorie deficit and are trying to lose weight. 

Taking OxyWhey or Isopept whey protein for weight loss is a great way to increase your protein intake for lean muscle preservation and fat loss, enabling you to reach your fat loss goals sooner!

What happens if you take whey protein without working out? 

It’s essential to meet your daily protein requirements, even if you’re not working out. It is still safe and recommended to supplement with whey protein if you aren’t highly active and on your rest days for whole-body benefits. 

Protein isn’t only essential for muscle building, but it also performs all kinds of bodily functions and plays an important role in the production of hormones, enzymes, and antibodies to keep your immune system strong.

Achieve your goals and experience the incredible benefits of taking whey protein with EHPlabs’ science-based and innovative whey protein formulas!