Whey protein makes up approximately 20 percent of milk protein and is used often by bodybuilders and athletes to boost athletic performance. It is found in foods, such as ricotta cheese and yogurt, and is available in supplement form. Research indicates that whey protein provides benefits, but also poses a few risks.
Heart Health
Whey protein might improve heart health by decreasing cholesterol levels, according to a study conducted by researchers from Curtin University of Technology. Overweight and obese subjects consumed whey protein, casein protein or glucose supplementation for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, which was published in the September 2010 issue of the "British Journal of Nutrition," scientists discovered that the whey protein group experienced significant decreases in total and LDL cholesterol levels compared to the other groups.
Prostate Cancer
Scientists from Ohio State University explored the effects of whey protein on prostate cancer risk. They treated human prostate cells with whey protein and discovered that cells increased the production of glutathione by up to 64 percent. Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that destroys free radicals that are associated with prostate cancer. Whey protein contains the amino acid cysteine, which helps synthesis glutathione in the body, according to the Science Daily website.
Cholestatic Injury
In research reported in the May 2008 issue of the "Seminars in Liver Disease," researchers from Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York discovered that a healthy male taking whey protein and creatine supplements experienced cholestatic injury, which is an injury to bile ducts that decreases the flow of bile through the liver. Once the male stopped supplement use, improvements were seen, according to scientists.
Side Effects
Whey protein might cause low blood pressure, low blood sugar levels and increase the risk for bleeding. In addition, it may also pregnant and breast-feeding women should avoid its use, according to MayoClinic.com. Consult your health care provider before consuming any supplements, especially if you are taking medications.
References
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Effects of Whey Protein Isolate on Body Composition, Lipids, Insulin and Glucose in Overweight and Obese Individuals; S. Pal et al.; September 2010
- Science Daily: Eat Your Whey: It May Protect Against Prostate Cancer
- "Seminars in Liver Disease"; Cholestatic Liver Injury Associated with Whey Protein and Creatine Supplements; K.N. Whitt et al.; May 2008
- MayoClinic.com: Whey Protein Safety
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