Whey Protein Concentrate
When it comes to “staples” for any athlete, whey protein should be at the top of your list. Despite just about everyone agreeing that whey protein is absolutely paramount for athletes to truly be their best, the reality is that it isn’t quite so simple as saying “I’ll take some whey protein please!” as there are a few different forms of whey. While it may not be the newest, hottest, or flashiest form, whey protein concentrate is the most studied, proven, and potentially most effective form of whey available as well as being the most inexpensive.
What it does
Whey protein concentrate is best known for its ability to increase lean body mass[1], however, it can also help lower fat mass[2], and increase muscle protein synthesis[3].
How it works
Whey Protein Concentrate helps support athletes in their quest for larger muscles by helping them consume adequate protein levels (which is challenging for many with traditional foods) which allow the body to recover and repair after challenging exercise more effectively.
Whey protein concentrate also provides high amounts of growth factors (such as IGF-1) thanks to it being less processed than other forms of whey, leading some to believe it helps increase anabolism to a larger extent.
Dosing
Whey protein concentrate should be used as needed to reach your daily macronutrient goals. Most suggest using 1-2 scoops (usually 25-50g of protein) at a time to mimic a traditional meal (as 4-8oz of chicken or beef contains similar protein totals), and this can be used many times per day as needed to reach total goals.