The latest research shows that whey protein has beneficial effects on mental health. The brain uses amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, to produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These chemicals improve mood and play a key role in concentration, learning and memory. Tryptophan is an important component for a variety of processes that support the immune system, energy production, gut health, and disease prevention.
8 Tryptophan is also the precursor to the hormone serotonin, 5 Serotonin, better known as the “happiness chemical,” supports feelings of well-being, sleep, mood regulation, and appetite regulation, 6,7 That said, it's clear that tryptophan is important to the body and that if it's included in the diet, you'll want to make sure it's used efficiently. Researchers linked excessive consumption of protein supplements to reduced absorption of tryptophan, leading to reduced serotonin production. The decrease in serotonin, of course, affects how effectively the “chemical of happiness” can play its role in promoting mood, sleep, appetite and a sense of well-being. Strength training, along with the consumption of protein-rich foods or protein supplements, has been shown to be an effective preventive strategy (.
Whey protein has been shown to be particularly effective and may have a greater effect on fat burning and satiety than other types of proteins (17, 36, 37, 44, 4). Whey protein has a very high nutritional value and is one of the best dietary sources of high-quality protein. Protein powder, which usually contains whey, wheat and soy, is mixed with beverages and taken as an over-the-counter protein supplement. In a study conducted on overweight people, eating 65 grams of whey protein a day for 12 weeks significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (1).
As a dietary supplement, whey protein is very popular among bodybuilders, athletes, and others who want to include additional protein in their diet). Eating plenty of protein is a very effective way to lose weight, and some studies show that whey protein can have even greater effects than other types of protein. More specifically, the Ixcela test can help you determine if you need to focus on improving your protein intake or if it would be better to stop taking protein supplements until your amino acid levels are more balanced. Several studies conducted in both humans and rodents have found that whey proteins can reduce oxidative stress and increase glutathione levels (30, 31, 32, 3).
According to a 2002 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, whey protein may help cognitive performance in people vulnerable to stress. A limited number of human studies have investigated the effect of whey proteins on blood pressure, and many experts consider the evidence to be inconclusive. If you go to the gym actively, lift weights, are an athlete or if you really struggle to stop taking protein supplements, here are some tips on how to include protein supplements and avoid the negative effects they can have on other amino acids. Whey protein has been found to be effective in moderating blood sugar, increasing both insulin levels and sensitivity to its effects (17, 20, 21, 2.In both rodents and humans, whey protein supplementation has been found to have beneficial effects on IBD (27, 2).
Compared to other protein sources, such as egg white or fish), whey protein seems to have the advantage (23, 2). Other protein supplements include whey protein concentrates (WPC), which are a rich source of specific amino acids and can be used as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
