Whey protein is a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey, the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. Some preclinical studies in rodents have suggested that whey protein may possess anti-inflammatory or anti-cancer properties; however, human data is lacking. The effects of whey protein on human health are of great interest and are currently being investigated as a way of reducing disease risk, as well as a possible supplementary treatment for several diseases.
Research indicates that the use of supplementary whey or soy protein combined with resistance training offers some benefit over no protein supplementation. The authors of this research concluded that "young adults who supplement with protein during a structured resistance training program experience minimal beneficial effects in lean tissue mass and strength.".
In contrast, another study of elderly men found supplementation with whey protein before and after exercise to not have any significant effect on skeletal muscle hypertrophy compared to placebo The timing of protein supplement ingestion may not have any significant effects on strength, power, or body-composition.
It should be noted that similar symptoms can be caused by ingredients found in lower quality protein powders such as lactose in whey protein concentrate or artificial sweeteners in most commercial protein powders. The effects of these substances can be distinguished from the effects of whey alone by switching to an unsweetened whey isolate or hydrolysate. If symptoms are not eliminated by switching to a more pure form of whey protein, many alternative powders, such as pea protein or rice protein may be suggested.
Research indicates that the use of supplementary whey or soy protein combined with resistance training offers some benefit over no protein supplementation. The authors of this research concluded that "young adults who supplement with protein during a structured resistance training program experience minimal beneficial effects in lean tissue mass and strength.".
In contrast, another study of elderly men found supplementation with whey protein before and after exercise to not have any significant effect on skeletal muscle hypertrophy compared to placebo The timing of protein supplement ingestion may not have any significant effects on strength, power, or body-composition.
It should be noted that similar symptoms can be caused by ingredients found in lower quality protein powders such as lactose in whey protein concentrate or artificial sweeteners in most commercial protein powders. The effects of these substances can be distinguished from the effects of whey alone by switching to an unsweetened whey isolate or hydrolysate. If symptoms are not eliminated by switching to a more pure form of whey protein, many alternative powders, such as pea protein or rice protein may be suggested.
