You’ve heard about its benefits in weight loss regimens. But what exactly is whey protein? Whey protein is separated from milk during the process of making milk into cheese and is a mixture of proteins naturally found in milk. It has one of the highest levels of protein digestibility, and is more rapidly digested than other proteins, such as casein. The major proteins found in it include lactoglobulin and alpha-lactalbumin. It’s found in foods such as ice cream, bread, canned soup, infant formulas and many other food products. However, before you consume any, make sure it’s halal certified. Whey is haram if prepared with non-halal enzymes.

 

Benefits of Whey Protein

  • It provides the body with amino acids.
  • It is a common ingredient in many meal replacements, which are designed to provide a large amount of nutrients with a minimal amount of calories.
  • It is also necessary to rebuild tissue, which is especially important for bodybuilders and athletes. Whey protein increases lean body mass resulting from exercise. For athletes, the average daily intake is approximately 25 grams of whey protein.
  • According to a study, people who consume whey proteins felt full longer and reduced the amount of food intake considerably as compared to those taking casein protein.
  • The body uses more energy to digest protein than other foods (thermic effect) and consequently allows the body to burn more calories after a protein meal. Further, protein helps to stabilize blood glucose levels by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This in turn reduces hunger by lowering insulin levels and making it easier for the body to burn fat. Whey protein also contains bioactive components which stimulate the release of two appetite-suppressing hormones: cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Adding halal certified whey protein to a mid-day snack or beverage provides healthy energy and may help control food intake at the next meal.
  • While breast milk is best for infants, when it isn’t an option, infant formula with whey protein is a great choice. Whey protein is a regular ingredient in several halal certified infant formula, as it has several components found in human breast milk. Certain kinds of whey protein based infant formulas have also been shown to help reduce crying in colicky infants, according to a study by Lucassen P, et al, 2000 published in the journal, “Pediatrics”. Further, pregnancy can increase the expectant mother’s need for protein by up to 33% and whey protein is an excellent protein choice. As in almost every decision, before making changes to their diet, expectant mothers should ask a doctor. According to Jednak M, et al, 1999, in the American Journal of Physiology – Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, “Protein meals reduce nausea and gastric slow wave dysrhythmic activity in first trimester pregnancy”.
  • The body needs increased amounts of protein when it’s in the process of healing wounds and surgical incisions. The growth of new skin is initiated by protein and its amino acids and inadequate amounts, or intake of poor quality protein, may delay this process. “Whey protein is a very high quality protein and is often the preferred choice for high protein products recommended by physicians following surgery or burn therapy,” according to the Whey Protein Institute.

 

Disadvantages of Whey Protein

People who are allergic to dairy products could react adversely to whey protein.

 

IFANCA-Halal Certified Products Containing Whey Protein: Retail

Company: Herbalife International of Luxembourg, S.aR.L

Products:

ShapeWorks™ Formula 3 Blended Soy and Whey Protein Powder, 8.4 oz (240 g)

ShapeWorks™ Soy and Whey Protein Bar Lemon Flavor, 14 Bars – 1.47 oz each

 

IFANCA-Halal Certified Whey Protein Suppliers: Non-Retail

Dairyman’s Inc./ Land O’ Lakes Western Div.
URL: www.landolakesinc.com

Davisco Foods International, Inc.
URL: www.daviscofoods.com

Foremost Farms USA
URL: www.foremostfarms.com

Glanbia Ingredients Inc.
URL: www.glanbiausa.com

Grande Cheese Company
URL: www.grandecig.com

Hilmar Ingredients
URL: www.hilmarcheese.com

Protient Ingredient Technologies
URL: www.protient.com

Trega Foods, Inc.
URL: www.tregafoods.com