Regardless of age, everyone needs protein in their daily diet, and everyone can easily reap the benefits of natural whey protein. Most people have heard of amino acids. Protein is a compound that is made up of essential and non-essential amino acids. Our bodies have the ability to make non-essential amino acids from the other essential amino acids found in our bodies. On the other hand, our body cannot produce the essential amino acids. The only way to get them is by eating protein-rich foods. One of the best sources of quality protein is natural whey.

So what is natural whey and where does it come from? We’ve all heard of “Little Miss Muffet eating the curds and whey from it.” Well, whey is a byproduct of milk. The curds that Miss Muffet ate was one of two by-products obtained from making cheese from milk. The other product, or liquid left over from this process, is the whey.

Any food source that contains all of the essential amino acids is considered a complete protein. Whey is a complete protein found in three forms, isolated, concentrated, and hydrolyzed. The purest of these forms is the isolate. The benefits of plain whey are best achieved with plain whey protein isolate due to its ability to be quickly and effectively absorbed by our bodies.

Of the two most popular types of natural whey protein on the market, whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, concentrate is the most appropriate. Our bodies really aren’t designed to ingest protein isolates that are devoid of nutrients. Many properties of protein isolates become ineffective during processing. The protein structure is completely damaged leaving a product lacking in immune supporting nutrients and important amino acids. Isolates do not provide CLA and also contain low amounts of protein-bound fats; or none at all. Protein-bound fats are important growth factors. Another important aspect of protein isolates; they don’t usually taste very good.

Protein is vital for nutrition and must be consumed on a daily basis. Protein is a great source of energy that also helps control our metabolism. The actual description and definition of metabolism is quite long and complex. One basic explanation is that metabolism is a sum of chemical processes in our bodies that control how our cells maintain themselves and how those processes make energy available. A healthy metabolism is a key factor in any athletic or strength training regimen, and is especially important in any weight loss program.

Many people think that only athletes and bodybuilders can enjoy the benefits of protein powder. All diets must contain quality protein. Your individual protein needs will depend on your lifestyle and overall health. Although athletes and bodybuilders require more, whey is perfect for anyone. Whether you are trying to manage or lose weight, have special dietary needs, or are concerned about lactose intolerance, the benefits of natural whey isolate are tremendous. Whatever your goal, adding whey protein to your daily diet can make for incredibly positive changes.