Top 5 Grass-Fed Whey Protein Benefits

When making cheese from cow’s milk, manufacturers separate the cheese curds from a watery milky substance, called whey. This milk derivative is well-known for its high protein content.

Once the liquid undergoes processing, it’s condensed into a dry powder that can be added to pre-workout protein shakes, bars, breakfast foods,and more.

Its high protein and nutrient profile make it a popular protein supplement for both athletes looking to improve their exercise performance and people looking for ways how to increase their protein intake.

That said, what are grass-fed whey protein benefits? We explore below.

What Is Whey Protein?

Cows’ milk contains two types of protein: casein and whey. While casein makes up the majority — about 80% — whey comprises the remaining 20%. Whey itself is made up of several proteins including but not limited to:

• Alpha-lactalbumin – A highly bioavailable protein, characterized by its high content of essential amino acids and ability to support immune regulation, antioxidant activity and neurotransmitter synthesis.
• Beta-lactoglobulin – A rich source of essential amino acids, particularly branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle protein synthesis and recovery.

Further, there are three types of whey protein supplements available on the market. These include:

• Whey protein concentrate – Contains 70 to 80% protein, as well as lactose, fat and carbohydrates.
• Whey protein isolate – Contains 90% protein, with lower lactose and fat levels compared to whey protein concentrate.
• Whey protein hydrolysate – Contains 95% protein, is highly bioavailable and is low in fats and carbohydrates.

Whey protein can also be further categorized into conventional whey protein and grass-fed whey protein.

Conventional Whey Vs. Grass-Fed Whey

The cows that produce whey-rich milk typically eat one of two things: grains or grass. Oftentimes, cows who are fed grains also exist in less ideal conditions, compared to cows who can openly graze on grass.

Comparatively, grass-fed cows also produce whey that’s exceptionally rich in:

• Omega-3 fatty acids – Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits for heart health, cognitive function and overall health.
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) – This is a type of fatty acid known for its potential to promote fat loss, support muscle growth and enhance immune function.
• Beta carotene – Beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and antioxidants that may support vision, immune function and skin health.
• Vitamins and minerals – These include vitamin E, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and potassium to support overall health.

Grass-fed whey protein is also manufactured differently. It’s cold-pressed and filtered to separate the protein from other elements, such as fat, cholesterol and lactose. The end result is a highly nutritious complete protein that can deliver an array of essential amino acids, crucial for muscle recovery and growth.

The Benefits of Grass-Fed Whey Protein

A natural diet of grass produces higher-quality milk, bolstering grass-fed whey protein with plenty of environmental and health benefits.

#1 Highly Nutritious

Grass-fed whey protein powder stands out for its exceptional nutritional composition when compared to conventional options. It's notably abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, renowned for promoting heart health and enhancing cognitive function.

Grass-fed whey protein also boasts heightened levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a beneficial fatty acid associated with weight loss, muscle growth and immune system support.

For those mainly concerned about weight loss, our other article, "Do protein shakes help you lose weight?", explores this topic in depth, providing several valuable insights and tips.

#2 Less Exposure to Antibiotics and Hormones

Grass-fed cows are typically raised in fields and fed a healthier diet compared to grain-fed cows, making them healthier and less reliant on antibiotics. Thus, there are fewer antibiotics present in the milk itself.

Also, grass-fed cows are rarely given artificial growth hormones, leading to a healthier product overall.

#3 Antioxidant Properties

Whey protein powder sourced from grass-fed cows boasts rich antioxidant content, notably featuring glutathione—a powerful antioxidant that plays an essential role in the body's detoxification and immune functions.

Thus, consistently consuming whey protein aids in bolstering the body's innate defense mechanisms against free radicals and oxidative stress, which are two factors that can contribute to aging.

#4 Taste and Texture

When it comes to grass-fed protein powder, taste and texture are often superior compared to other types of protein powder. Grass-fed whey protein tends to have a milder, creamier flavor profile, with subtle hints of sweetness or nuttiness, depending on the brand and processing methods.

The texture is typically smoother and more palatable, making it easier to blend into protein shakes, smoothies or recipes without any gritty or chalky residue. This enhanced taste and texture can significantly improve the overall sensory experience of consuming protein supplements, encouraging consistent use and adherence to dietary goals.

Also, the natural and minimal processing of grass-fed protein powder helps retain the freshness and integrity of the ingredients, ensuring a more wholesome and satisfying flavor profile.

#5 Environmental Sustainability

Grass-fed protein powder also offers notable benefits in terms of environmental sustainability. Cows raised on pasture-based diets contribute to more eco-friendly agricultural practices compared to those raised in confined feeding operations.

Grazing animals also help to:

• Maintain healthy grasslands
• Promote soil health
• Reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides

Additionally, pasture-based systems often have lower greenhouse gas emissions and overall environmental impact compared to intensive grain-feeding practices. Some grass-fed protein brands also utilize sustainable sourcing practices, such as utilizing renewable energy, minimizing packaging waste and supporting regenerative agriculture initiatives.

Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder With INVIGOR8

Overall, grass-fed whey protein powder delivers essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients that conventional whey protein can’t compete with. It’s a rich source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids and absent of contaminants like hormones and antibiotics. Plus, for those who are just as concerned about the environment as they are about what they put in their bodies, grass-fed whey protein delivers assurance on both sides of the coin.

For fitness and weight loss support, there’s the All-In-One Organic Superfoods Powder. Our protein powder ingredients include 20 grams of grass-fed whey protein per serving and additional nutrients to support digestive, cognitive and immune health. To make it even more appealing, there are four delicious flavors to choose from: Triple Chocolate Brownie, Himalayan Salted Caramel, Natural Strawberry and French Vanilla. For a holistic approach to your nutrition plan, we also offer an entire weight loss kit, featuring our superfoods powder, unflavored collagen peptides, appetite control support supplement, and a specialized meal plan.

A healthier you is just a sip away. Explore our offerings today.

Sources:

1. WebMD. Whey Protein.
2. Healthline. Whey Protein 101.
3. SI.The 9 Best Types of Protein Powder Explained
4. Eat This, Not That. 11 Reasons You Should Use Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder