Whey is one of the two major groups of proteins derived from milk (the other being casein). Whey protein is highly bio-available, meaning that it is very efficiently absorbed by the body. Whey protein is harvested during the process of turning milk into cheese, and is then processed into either whey protein concentrate (WPC) or whey protein isolate (WPI). Whey protein concentrates are rich in whey proteins and also contain fat and lactose. Some whey protein concentrates contain higher amounts of immunoglobulins (a complex protein mixture) than others. Whey protein isolates contain more protein with less fat and lactose per serving. A concentrate may contain 70-85% protein vs. an isolate 90-98%.
Whey protein may aid in fat loss and/or muscle gain when combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. Whey protein, in addition to being an excellent source of protein, may also have immune-enhancing and antioxidant effects. Preliminary studies have shown that whey protein may protect against colon and other cancers as well, but more research is needed. A published study by Kent, Bomser and Harper of Ohio State University Dept. of Food Science and Tech concluded that "Digested Whey Protein Isolate elevates intracellular GSH (glutathione) of human prostrate cells which protects against oxidant induced cell death." Read more Additionally, studies have shown that whey protein formula administered to infants may help reduce the incidence of allergies and certain other ailments during infancy.
Whey protein is available in a variety of formulas and flavors.