Benefits Of Whey Protein

Whey protein has numerous health benefits. It appears that in addition to promoting muscle gain, whey protein also charges up the immune system and helps the body fight off infections. This process has been studied in recent years in immunosuppressed people with viral diseases such as HIV. Numerous studies have also been done on animals with cancer.

Whey protein isolate dramatically raises levels of an important antioxidant called glutathione that helps the body fight free radical damage and maintain immune function. Viral diseases, such as AIDS, are associated with low glutathione levels. Whey also treats the wasting associated with AIDS.

Immune responses to other challenges, including bacterial diseases (Salmonella and Streptococcus pneumonia) and cancer-causing chemicals, are improved with whey protein presumably because of the its ability to raise glutathione levels. Animal studies show that whey protein decreases the number of cancer tumors as well as the size of each tumor. Other types of proteins, such as soy and egg, do not have the same effect. Because animal studies are preliminary, further studies on humans are needed to validate whey's anti-cancer properties.

In addition to improving immunity and possibly preventing cancer, there are numerous other positive effects associated with whey protein. Whey prevents the oxidation of bad (LDL) cholesterol. Research suggests that the conversion of LDL cholesterol to oxidized LDL cholesterol is the trigger that leads to artery hardening (atherosclerosis). Whey protein promotes muscle gain and fat loss, which are important in treating chronic diseases such as metabolic syndrome. Combined with adequate exercise, reducing body fat is also associated with the prevention and treatment of multiple diseases and conditions--these range from diabetes and heart disease to joint pain and injury. Whey protein may also speed recovery from illness. The suggested daily intake of whey protein for people with compromised immune systems is 30 grams.