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- Also known as:
- Whey protein concentrates (WPC), Immunocal, Protectamin
- What is it?
- Whey results when liquid is drained from the curd during the making of
cheese. It contains lactose, protein, ash and lipids. The protein
concentration at this stage of processing is about 67%. Whey proteins can be
further processed to yield whey protein concentrates (WPC). The protein
concentration can be as high as 95% after the removal of the fats and
lactose. WPC’s are high in lactalbumin, minerals and vitamins. WPC’s
have been used in a wide range of food products such as dairy foods, egg
white replacement, drinks, imitation seafood and meat products. Whey protein
is added to infant formula to more closely imitate human milk.
- Adverse Events:
- Persons allergic to milk protein should not take whey protein. Poor
quality formulas may cause gas and bloating. Taking too much may cause liver
and kidney damage. Drinking large amounts of water may help prevent liver
and kidney damage.
- Levodopa taken at the same time as whey protein may decrease the
absorption of the medication. Whey protein can decrease the absorption of
some drugs like fluoride (Fluoritab), fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines and
alendronate (Fosamax). To stop this from happening, wait at least two (2)
hours between taking these drugs and taking whey protein.
- Safety and Effectiveness:
- Persons with kidney disease should not take whey protein.
- History of use:
- Whey protein concentrates contain a wide-range and near full-blend of
essential and non-essential amino acids. Amino acids are commonly referred
to as the building blocks of life. Amino acids combine to form proteins.
These proteins make up nearly every tissue and organ in the body. Adding
proteins to the diet may help to repair injuries, to help metabolism, and to
improve general health. The real nutritional value of WPC’s lies in their
large amount of amino acids. For example, the typical WPC contains up to 18
amino acids, which is almost the full blend. Studies have shown that whey
protein can increase the amount of glutathione in the blood. Glutathione is
an antioxidant, which is important to a healthy immune system. Persons with
HIV and the elderly have decreased glutathione levels and also weakened
immune systems. This is why whey protein has become of interest in
immune-suppressed populations.
Other References
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