Overview
Whey protein is the protein from whey, the watery portion of milk that separates from the curds when making cheese. It is commonly used as a protein supplement.
Whey protein might improve the nutrient content of the diet and also have effects on the immune system.
People commonly use whey protein for improving athletic performance and increasing strength. Whey protein is also used for asthma, diabetes, weight loss, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Uses & Effectiveness ?
Possibly Effective for
- Athletic performance. Regularly consuming whey protein by mouth while also regularly exercising increases muscle strength and athletic performance. But it seems that both must be done consistently to see benefits.
Possibly Ineffective for
- A lung disease that makes it harder to breathe (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD). Taking whey protein by mouth doesn't seem to help COPD symptoms.
- Weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis). Taking whey protein by mouth for up to 2 years doesn't improve bone density in older adults.
There is interest in using whey protein for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Whey protein is likely safe for most adults when taken appropriately. High doses can cause some side effects such as increased bowel movements, acne, nausea, thirst, bloating, reduced appetite, tiredness, and headache.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When taken by mouth: Whey protein is likely safe for most adults when taken appropriately. High doses can cause some side effects such as increased bowel movements, acne, nausea, thirst, bloating, reduced appetite, tiredness, and headache. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if whey protein is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: Whey protein is likely safe for children when used in amounts commonly found in food or when included in infant formulas.
Milk allergy: If you are allergic to cow's milk, avoid using whey protein.
Interactions ?
Levodopa interacts with WHEY PROTEIN
Whey protein might decrease how much levodopa the body absorbs. This might decrease the effects of levodopa. Do not take whey protein and levodopa at the same time.
Major Interaction
Do not take this combination
Antibiotics (Quinolone antibiotics) interacts with WHEY PROTEIN
Whey protein might decrease how well some antibiotics work. To avoid this interaction, take antibiotics at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after whey protein.
Antibiotics (Tetracycline antibiotics) interacts with WHEY PROTEIN
Whey protein might decrease how well some antibiotics work. To avoid this interaction, take antibiotics at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after whey protein.
Bisphosphonates interacts with WHEY PROTEIN
Whey protein can decrease the effects of bisphosphates. To avoid this interaction, take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before whey or, preferably, at a different time of day.
Moderate Interaction
Be cautious with this combination
Dosing
Whey protein has most often been used by adults in doses of up to 30 grams by mouth daily for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific purpose.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circ*mstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.
This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.
