I've read that whey protein is digested and absorbed pretty easily. One reason I stopped drinking protein shakes is that there's no thermic effect since it's liquid calories. But I've also read that protein bars have whey, but it's predigested. Does that mean you get no thermic effect from a protein bar as well? I'll also read supplement companies' claims that whey is superior to other sources of protein, which I always found hard to believe. For the person who's just looking to shed some fat and maintain muscle, should I even bother with whey protein from shakes or bars? Also, what about whey from dairy products? I've cut out dairy cause of its association with acne. It almost sounds like eating whey protein in general isn't worth it. What do you think? Is whey a good source or is this just another example of the supplement industry brainwashing the masses?

As far as i know there is a thermic effect from whey, and even if there wasn't the fact that there is no thermic effect doesn't automatically make a protein useless.

Protein is rated on a BV (Biological Value) scale based on the amino acid profile. Whey is actually superior to almost any other protein source, so in that sense, it is the "best" protein. However, I don't think there is a huge difference as long as one is getting enough overall protein, and enough of all the essential aminos. It is a good protein, but personally I don't think the difference is enough to fret over.

As far as the thermic effect, I think as long as the body has to digest the solids of the bar, they whey isn't especially significant in that sense, but honestly, I'm not 100% sure.

I feel it is a great source of protein but ensure your getting your protein each day from actual food also, not sure whey. You need to combine both.

If you are worried about the themic effect of protein supplements to help you in burning fat you are really splittng hairs. Bodybuilders don't even reach that far into the fat burning process. If your diet is right and you are eating at least six times a day and doing short high intensity cardio your metabolism will be firing. The benefit to the protein WHEY protein supplement is far more important then the themic effect it doesn't provide. Your body needs protein to build muscle, more muscle=an even faster metabolism which will continually help you reduce body fat. Whey has been proven time and time again in research to be the most effect protein. There is recent research that is actually linking soy protein to varies health problems.