Whey is derived from the cheese making process, according to Dr. Geoffrey W. Krissansen, associate professor of molecular medicine and pathology at New Zealand's University of Auckland. Whey powder may benefit sufferers of multiple sclerosis. Glutathione -- a powerful antioxidant in whey powder -- is not only believed to improve the muscle performance of body builders, but to benefit the central nervous system disease, multiple sclerosis.
Definition
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which white blood cells, which normally attack destructive invaders like viruses, attack the body's own cell, in this case, the protective cover around the nerves, or myelin. According to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America -- MSAA, this immune-system attack produces inflammation in the central nervous system which injures myelin and over time, may damage the nerves themselves. When nerves are impaired, communication between the brain and spinal cord is disrupted, which could result in reduced body function, reports the MSAA.
Symptoms
Multiple sclerosis symptoms may occur briefly and then return months or even years later -- or may arise and progress rapidly. The Mayo Clinic reports that individuals with MS might experience numbness in the limbs or in the bottom half of their bodies. Those with MS may experience blurry or double vision, fatigue, dizziness and a lack of coordination as well as a tremor. In addition, life scientist Dr. Parris Kidd identifies bladder dysfunction as a possible symptom of MS.
Factors
Women are at greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis than men, according to Dr. Kidd. People with MS are thought to be born genetically more susceptible to the disease, and several genes are believed to be involved. Microbial infections, environmental toxin exposure and diet as well as several other factors may increase the risk of MS. In addition, the MSAA reports that those living closer to the equator are more likely to have multiple sclerosis.
Whey Powder Component Benefit
Whey powder contains a powerful antioxidant -- the chemical glutathione. Glutathione is a naturally produced molecule made from protein, or amino acids. According to osteopathic doctor, Joseph Mercola, whey powder is, in fact, the best source of glutathione and is the most potent antioxidant in the body. Physician Mark Hyman reports on The Huffington Post that it is the "mother of all antioxidants." Hyman also recommends getting your glutathione from whey powder.
Glutathione is considered an intracellular antioxidant which can enhance the performance of other antioxidants such as vitamin C. Its main function is to protect cells from the oxidative damage of toxins. Glutathione's secret weapon in the defeat of toxins is its sulfur components, which attract the free radicals and toxins, says Dr. Hyman.
Whey Powder Treatment Benefit
Whey powder's immune system booster, glutathione, may help reduce the devastating symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Patients with MS reportedly have increased oxidative stress or cell damage -- resulting from an overexposure to toxins. According to Hyman, toxins are one of several contributing factors that can deplete levels of glutathione in the body. Excess toxins may lead to oxidative stress, free radicals, infections -- and even cancer, says Hyman. He states that the majority of his seriously ill patients, including those with autoimmune diseases, have low levels of glutathione, which is vital to maintaining optimal health. Osteopathic physician Michelle Alpert says that she uses glutathione in her treatment of MS patients and also strongly recommends this potent antioxidant for immune health. In addition, depleted levels of glutathione have been associated with muscle weakness and fatigue, symptoms frequently observed in patients with multiple sclerosis.
References
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrtion";Emerging Health Properties of Whey Proteins and Their Clinical Implications; Geoffrey W. Krissansen
- ProHealth Library: The Detox Drip with Glutathione: A New Approach to Healing From Chronic Illness
- Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: What is Multiple Sclerosis?
- Mayo Clinic: Symptoms
- Thorne: Multiple Sclerosis, An Autoimmune Inflammatory Disease: Prospects For its Integrative Management
- The Huffington Post: Glutathione: The Mother of All Antioxidants
