Stomach discomfort from ingesting protein powder is most likely related to lactose intolerance or a milk allergy, considering most protein powders are made from cow's milk. Whey is a common main ingredient in most protein powders, which can cause an allergic reaction or stomach discomfort if you're lactose intolerant. If you experience adverse reactions after ingesting protein powder, discontinue use and call your doctor for evaluation.
Protein Powder
According to Whey of Life, many protein powders are made from whey protein, derived from dairy. Whey protein makes up about 20 percent of cow's milk proteins with the remaining 80 percent is made of casein proteins, according to Kids Health. Even if you've been diagnosed with a casein protein allergy, you should still avoid consuming whey because of the potential of cross-contamination.
Food Allergy
If you're allergic to cow's milk, you need to avoid ingesting whey protein powder. Milk allergy symptoms will affect the digestive tract, the respiratory system and the skin, according to MayoClinic.com. You may develop stomach pain, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Common respiratory symptoms include nasal congestion, watery eyes and asthma-like symptoms. The skin can become irritated, inflamed and itchy. Common rashes that develop are eczema and hives.
Lactose Consideration
If you're lactose intolerant, Whey of Life recommends not using whey protein concentrates. Although many whey protein powders contain very low amounts of lactose, someone who is severely lactose intolerant can experience common lactose intolerant symptoms. These symptoms include bloating, cramping, stomach pain, gas, foul-smelling stools and diarrhea, according to MedlinePlus.
Treatment
If you've been diagnosed with a milk allergy, you need to eliminate diary products from your diet, including all protein powders that are derived from milk. MayoClinic.com states that minor allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion and eye irritation may be treated with an over-the-counter antihistamine. You may prevent stomach pain from lactose intolerance with protein powder if you take a supplemental lactase enzyme. The supplement will provide enough lactase to properly break down the lactose, according to MedlinePlus.
Substitution
If you are diagnosed with an allergy to whey or lactose intolerance, you can use soy-based protein powders that are dairy-free and do not contain lactose. Soy protein powders provide the same amount of protein as whey protein powders and can be used in the same way. Talk with your doctor before using any supplement to treat a medical condition.
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