Whey protein constitutes 20 percent of milk protein and undergoes filtering and purifying to produce whey protein isolate, a high protein, low fat and lactose free product. While evidence suggests that whey protein isolate consumption provides a wide range of benefits that might help enhance overall health, it can also pose a few health risks.
Boosts Heart Health
Whey protein isolate might be heart healthy, according to lead researcher Dr. Jeff Volek and colleagues from the University of Connecticut. Researchers investigated the impact of whey protein supplementation on blood vessel function in healthy women and men. During the two week study, participants were assigned whey protein or a placebo while being measured for blood vessel function. Scientist observed that the whey protein group experienced an increase in artery dilation, which might improve heart health by increasing blood flow to the heart, the August 2009 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition," reports.
Improves Body Composition
Researchers from the Center for Ageing, Rehabilitation, Exercise and Sport in Australia studied the effects of whey protein isolate on body composition, or fat to muscle ratio, during a 10 week resistance exercise program. Subjects received whey isolate or casein protein while performing intense weight training. At the end of the study, the whey isolate group experienced a greater increase in lean muscle mass than the casein protein group, the October 2006 issue of the "International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism," reports.
Health Risks
Protein shakes are often promoted as effective products for boosting weight loss. However, the average adult only needs at most 56 g of protein a day to cover basic bodily functions. Increasing protein calories, such as those from protein shakes, can enhance weight gain if it pushes you over your total daily calorie limit for weight maintenance. Furthermore, if you have a pre-existing kidney problem or condition, limit or avoid the use of protein supplements as it may worsen the problem, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
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