Powdered milk proteins: what are they and what are they for?

Whey proteins , also called whey proteins , are extracted from cow’s milk: the better the quality of the milk, the better the quality of the extracted proteins.

They are proteins that boast a rich source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and contain more of them than any other food. Whey proteins are produced through a conversion process that transforms milk into cheese, and they are the by-product of this processing.

These particular proteins can be integrated thanks to specific powder supplements, drinks or protein bars.

There are different types of whey protein namely:

• Whey protein isolate, the purest form of whey protein and the most expensive;
• Whey Protein concentrate, less pure than isolates with a slightly higher fat and lactose content and at a lower cost;
• Whey Protein Blend, a mix of whey protein isolates and concentrates, are proteins of lower quality and lower cost.

Whey protein helps increase lean muscle mass, speed up muscle recovery and lower the risk of muscle catabolism both after training and during night rest.

Do they have contraindications? 

In this paragraph we talk about the possible contraindications and side effects of whey protein. Whey proteins, found precisely in milk, stimulate the release of insulin and allow you to speed up the increase in lean body mass, but they can  interact with some drugs and have side effects.

These proteins can interact with drugs such as blood sugar lowers, insulin, blood pressure drugs, and diabetes treatment drugs. Whey proteins can also interact with anticoagulant drugs, coumarins, heparins and NSAID drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Those with kidney or liver problems should pay attention to the amount of protein powder they consume, including whey protein. Common protein powders and whey proteins should not be taken during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Finally, whey protein can interact with the following medicines and supplements:

• Soccer;
• Copper;
• Antibiotics;
• Anticoagulants;
• Anticonvulsants;
• Antihypertensives;
• Colostrum;
• Vitamins;
• Painkillers.

Additionally, they can interact with supplements and herbal preparations such as:

• Folic acid;
• Ferro;
• Antiretrovirals;
• Leucine;
• antidepressants;
• Maltodextrins;
• hypotensive;
• Probiotics;
• Antifungals;
• Limonene;
• Spirulina;
• Omega 3 and and Omega 6;
• Selenium;
• Zinc;
• St. John’s wort;
• Soya.

Casein proteins  can cause typical allergy symptoms such as: stomach pain, vomiting, cramps, colic, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, stuffy and/or runny nose, watery eyes, skin rash and/or hives. The use of casein proteins is not recommended in subjects who are following hypotensive therapies.

Whey protein can cause side effects for people with lactose intolerance . If you suffer from lactose intolerance, always read the product label carefully. Some whey proteins are delactosed to allow even those who are lactose intolerant to take them.

Others contain very little lactose and may still be well tolerated, depending on the type of intolerance you suffer from. If you don’t know what to do, ask your doctor for help. Are there any substitutes for whey protein?

Yes, there are some proteins that can be substitutes for whey protein, but no protein has the same qualities. Soy protein  , for example, is one of the most widely used whey protein substitutes. They have no side effects if hypersensitivity is excluded and if they are consumed in the correct doses.

However, they are contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding because they could have a negative effect on the development of the fetus or on the growth of the infant. Soy protein should be taken with caution in people suffering from hypothyroidism, asthma and diabetes because it could cause a worsening of conditions. Soy protein can interact with antidepressant drugs and antibiotics.

Rice proteins are the most similar to those of whey and do not have side effects if we exclude those deriving from a possible hypersensitivity reaction. Hemp protein  is the best and most complete plant protein substitute for whey protein. They contain all amino acids and numerous vitamins, minerals and fiber.

However, they must be consumed correctly because an excessive intake could cause diarrhea, stomach and abdominal pain, cramps and aerophagia. Finally, if you are taking anticoagulant drugs, they could enhance the anticoagulant effect and cause bleeding.

How to take whey protein?

Always follow the instructions on the package and always evaluate the amount of protein you need in your diet. To understand the correct dose for you, you will need to contact a nutritionist who will evaluate your daily requirement.

Taking an excessive dose of protein can cause fatigue to some organs such as liver and kidneys, while taking too little protein could cause tiredness and weakening of muscle mass.

You can take protein both before and after training, and before going to bed, always paying attention to the doses. Before training they help boost results, after they help speed up recovery and before going to sleep they help counteract nocturnal muscle catabolism

To choose the best quality protein for you, always read the label. Buy only products that have the best proteins, are low in sugar, and are clearly labeled with no omitted ingredients. If you notice that the formula contains additions of amino acids, therefore not proteins, such as  taurine, glutamine, creatine and glycine,  avoid buying the product because it is not pure protein.

If you want more information on buying excellent quality whey protein, I suggest you read our review of the best brands that produce excellent quality proteins . You will find useful information that will guide you in choosing the product that best suits your needs.