Side Effects of Whey Protein

Whey is a complex protein which consists of many smaller protein sub-fractions like immunoglobulins (IgGs), glycomacropeptides, alpha-lactalbumin, beta-lactoglobulin, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and minor peptides such as lactoperoxidases, lysozyme and lactoferrin. Each protein fractions have their own unique health benefits. It has a high biological value rating and is a priority for many modern-day athletes. Dairy whey is a by-product of cheese made from cow's milk, which is filtered to remove the fat and lactose. This liquid whey is then dried and converted into a powdered form. Whey protein powder has a pleasant taste and is easily absorbed by the body. There are three different types of whey protein; whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate and hydrolyzed whey protein.

Side Effects of Whey Protein

There has been a substantial debate over the side effects of whey protein. Although there is no scientific evidence to prove its negative effects, experts insist that there can be some risk factors involved in its consumption. Some of its side effects include:

• Increased stool frequency
• Diarrhea and vomiting in infants
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling and cramps

Since it is manufactured from cow's milk, people who are allergic to lactose or suffer from lactose intolerance may develop allergic reactions like rashes, hives, itching, swelling of the lips, wheezing, etc. It's better such people consult a doctor before incorporating whey into their diet. According to some experts, long-term and excessive intake of this protein can cause kidney deterioration. Excessive protein in the blood reduces the kidney's metabolism rate and makes the blood acidic. Though there isn’t any research that supports this idea, many experts believe that there is a risk of kidney damage. Calcium is used to reverse the effects of blood acidity, but due to whey's intake, calcium gets deposited on the kidney which leads to the formation of kidney stones. Experts also believe that excessive intake of whey can cause liver damage, as the ketone level in the blood increases and causes stress on the liver. They have also warned that too much intake of this protein can cause osteoporosis, which can lead to joint problems in the long run.

Protein Intake and Health Benefits

Depending upon the body weight, protein intake varies from person to person. Generally, it is recommended to have one gram of whey protein per pound of body weight. However, a bodybuilder can consume 150 grams of protein per day.

Some of its health benefits are:

• It helps to increase lean muscle mass
• It is useful for weight loss or fat loss
• It helps in preventing cancer - especially breast cancer
• It strengthens immunity by increasing the glutathione levels in the body
• It helps in speedy recovery during illness by improving the T-cell activity and reducing the waste tissues
• It is beneficial in treating high cholesterol
• Helps HIV AIDS-infected people to gain weight
• Helps in treating asthma

It is used in infant formulas and acts as a source of nutrition for people with lactose intolerance. For individuals suffering from any kind of chronic or medical problems and allergies, it is advisable to consult a health care provider before consuming these proteins.

Due to its high nutritional benefits and taste, whey protein can be consumed by people of all ages. But one shouldn't forget that excess of anything is bad and this holds true for whey proteins too.