A recent study discovered another advantage of whey protein - it promotes glucose (blood sugar) uptake.
In this study, subjects were provided protein and fast-absorbing, high-glycemic index carbohydrates for breakfast (bread, ham and lactose), and for lunch (mashed potatoes, meatballs, ham and lactose). Glucose responses were then measured.
On another occasion, the same test meals were consumed, but whey protein (18.2 g protein and 5.3 g lactose) was exchanged for the ham and lactose, thereby making calories, protein, carbohydrate and fat grams identical.
Compared to the first meals, the whey-containing meals resulted in a significantly lower blood sugar response at lunch (-21%). The results suggests that whey protein is an ideal supplement to include with meals and as a post-exercise drink because the amino acids in whey protein help you feel full and cause less fluctuation in blood sugar throughout the day.