In order to fuel life, our body needs a constant supply of three major macronutrients: carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Carbohydrates and fats help to supply our bodies mostly with energy. Protein however is a bit different.

Proteins are different because they are composed of chains of nitrogen. This is further divided into little units called amino acids - and these are the basic building blocks of muscle. Amino acids also serve as an essential source of dietary nitrogen, which is an essential element for your body.

These amino acids are the building blocks of lean muscle. This is where whey protein enters the picture. Whey supplies all of the essential amino acids and digests very quickly - usually within 30 minutes. Whey protein is also very inexpensive and, especially chocolate whey, can taste great.

The best time to take whey protein is immediately post workout. When you exercise, you deplete your muscles of glycogen and break your muscle tissues down. To adapt to this stress, your body becomes more sensitive to insulin - the hormone responsible for shuffling nutrients to your muscles.

When insulin is released, triggered by a simple carbohydrate drink or meal, you should then drink whey protein. Whey protein will get to your muscles very quickly and immediately begin to repair the damage. This means that you can recover faster, and get results more quickly.

So this sounds great, but is it safe? Whey protein is very safe for you; in fact, there is little evidence to suggest that it has any harmful side effects. Since it is found naturally in foods, especially milk, you can rest assured that whey protein will not do any damage, unlike steroids.

You want to make sure that you take whey protein especially after you workout and wake up. Your body is highly sensitive during these times and the fast absorption of whey protein will be fully utilized. You can take it at other times during the day, but don't let whey protein take the place of natural foods.

For the rest of the day, just stick to your healthy foods. Make sure and eat plenty of nuts, dairy, lean meats, vegetables and fruit. All of these serve a purpose that whey protein will not do, and without proper diet you will never see results. Remember that diet and training is greater than supplements.

If you haven't made the choice to add whey protein to your diet, I would suggest it. It is very cheap, order online for great prices, and it will last you a while. Your body is a great investment. After all, you have to put up with it everyday. So make sure that you aren't going about it with half force.