Effects Of Weight Gain With Whey Protein Powder Shakes

When you add whey protein shakes to your normal diet, you're adding extra calories as well as nutrients. Those calories build a surplus that shows up as steady weight gain, which may be intentional or unplanned. Along with gaining weight, you may notice accompanying side effects that range from positive to potentially harmful.

Allergy

Although high-quality, concentrated whey protein contains very little lactose, unrefined powders and shakes with other milk protein ingredients can aggravate people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you normally avoid dairy but are gaining weight with whey protein shakes and noticing side effects such as bloating, cramps or nausea, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction to ingredients you're drinking.

Muscle Gain

According to ChooseMyPlate.gov, sources of lean and low-fat protein encourage proper growth and development of muscle tissue. That's one reason why protein shakes are commonly found in bodybuilders' diets, but even if you're not trying to bulk up, you can use shakes to help get a more toned physique. "Some extra protein is needed to build muscle," states the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. You'll notice the most profound results if you supplement your whey shakes with a regular strength-building exercise program.

Fat Gain

Drinking whey shakes add extra calories to your diet, so it is important to exercise. "If individuals consume large amounts of extra protein in addition to their regular dietary intake, any weight gain would very likely be in the form of fat," states Cedric Bryant, scientist for the American Council on Exercise.

Health Risks

A high-calorie, high-protein diet that includes whey shakes can be useful if you're underweight, recovering from surgery or trying to resist infection, according to registered dietitian Maria Adams. However, even if you achieve positive effects and gain weight intentionally with shakes, you can put your health at risk if your protein intake is too high. MayoClinic.com registered dietitian Katherine Zeratsky remarks that taking in too much protein can increase your risk of liver and kidney problems, diverticulitis, constipation, cancer and heart disease.

Considerations

The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports reports that most people, including athletes who are looking to gain weight and muscle, get enough protein in their everyday diets without shakes or supplements. If you want to get heavier, you can do so by increasing your calorie count without making a special effort to get more protein. However, if you intend to add whey shakes to your diet for any reason, speak with a physician beforehand to discuss possible side effects.