Protein Powders and Liquid Whey

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Extra protein is usually taken when a person heavily exercises and trying to build muscle mass. If you take extra protein and don’t exercise, you might find yourself with unwanted pounds. If you are a vegetarian, extra protein is good to incorporate. Remember, always do things in moderation -overdoing a good thing may result in negative consequences.

From the standpoint of health, whey has been shown to help support the immune system and provide the building blocks for a powerful antioxidant – glutathione.

Glutathione (GSH); a major antioxidant used by the body to help remove carcinogens and free radicals. It is not absorbed well by the body and must be created from other amino acids. Whey provides a high level of the amino acids needed for glutathione production. Low levels can expose you to threats of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, along with cataracts and heart disease. Adding yogurt whey and other whey proteins to your diet may help to raise your GSH levels.

Protein Powders

The most popular form of whey is the protein powders, however the process in which its made, and the list of additives make it not so healthy overall and making your own (liquid whey) is a better and healthier choice. 

According to Sally Fallon, President of the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF), the process of making protein powders often requires extremely high heat which overly denatures the proteins (as opposed to the normal denaturing that happens during digestion or cooking) to such an extent that they become virtually useless while increasing nitrates, MSG, and other carcinogens. 

An Alternative – Whey Liquid Protein

Whey liquid is also good for the digestive system, contains calcium, a good source of potassium and vitamin B-2, and is loaded with probiotics so it digests and absorbs well, plus it’s excellent for hydrating the body which makes it a perfect pre-workout or post-workout protein source; mix it with a smoothie that has fresh and natural ingredients, including your choice of super foods. Boost the protein and mineral content of homemade grains, beans and legumes by doing a good soaking with water and a couple Tbs. of whey for about 12 hours before cooking.

Whey is the liquid that separates from the solids if you strain yogurt in a cotton or muslin bag.

Protein Content

Yogurt whey contains all of the essential amino acids that makes a complete protein, as opposed to plant-based proteins such as grains, beans, legumes,  nuts and seeds.

Concerns with Yogurt Whey

If you are lactose intolerant, you may find that the fermentation process which produces yogurt may destroy the lactose or cause it to be harmless. However, whey is milk-based and may have the same drawbacks for some people that regular cow’s milk has. Make sure the yogurt is grass-fed, and if your making the yogurt yourself, make sure you begin with raw milk. You could also try goats milk yogurt as an alternative if you have lactose intolerance. 

If you feel you must use a supplement, there are a variety of commercial protein powders and meal replacements on the market which you should be cautious of and avoid. Since the goal is a healthy way of life,  I am not promoting them, they can be harmful, expensive and healthier choices can be created by your own hands. Healthy alternatives to commercial protein powders can be made at home in any of the following ways: 

1. Mix your own Protein Powder using powdered super foods and add to daily smoothies.
2. Protein bars with nuts, seeds, dried fruits high in protein; dates, apricot, raisins, raw-local honey, and super foods.
3. You can also make your own liquid whey by straining organic yogurt in a muslin cloth, the liquid that drains is your whey and the solids are creamy Greek yogurt. 2-4 Tbs. a day is recommended, add to smoothies or health drinks.
4. Add organic-free range-raw egg yolk to a smoothie or health drink. Or you can use the whole egg, just make sure you are active, it will put on the unwanted pounds if not. Best result is to only use the whole raw egg if you need the extra protein, too many raw egg white can block the absorbition of the B vitamin – biotin. (For every 4 days in the week, take 3 off.)

Choosing one that’s right for you is a matter of individual preference. The only requirements are: 

• Tastes good, so you’ll use it on a regular basis
• Provides a complete amino acid profile
• Doesn’t cause an allergic reaction

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