Kidney disease

What is whey protein powder?

Whey protein is a well-liked dietary and supplement.

It is produced using whey, the liquid that separates from milk during the manufacturing of cheese. Once the whey has been purified, filtered, and spray-dried, it becomes whey protein powder.

Whey protein is available in three different forms. The main distinction between them is the way that they are handled.

There are 3 Types of whey protein powder:

  • Whey protein concentrate: Has a protein content of between 35 and 80%. Lactose, fat, and milk-derived minerals are also present.
  • Whey protein isolate: 90–96% protein content. It has a very low fat and lactose content.
  • Pre-digested whey protein hydrolysate: This form can make it easier for your body to absorb.

Whey protein is a preferred option for athletes, fitness buffs, and anyone trying to gain muscle or shed some pounds. In especially for young individuals without medical issues, studies suggest it may help athletes recover from exercise, grow muscle, and improve strength as part of a resistance training regimen.

Additionally, whey protein may help persons who are overweight or obese lose weight, according to some study. People may feel fuller after eating extra protein, which may aid in weight reduction.

Too much protein powder ingestion can impair kidney function by raising plasma urea concentration, urinary calcium excretion, and urine volume. This strains the kidneys and can result in kidney stones. If you use protein powders, make sure to drink enough of water and eat plenty of fiber to offset the effects.


How much whey protein powder is acceptable?

Protein supplements appear to be unavoidable for individuals interested in fitness. However, physicians contend that protein supplements are not necessary for everyone. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), an adult human body requires 0.8 to one gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Protein powders, which are often measured in scoops, provide 15 to 25 g of protein each scoop.

Nutritionists believe that dietary supplements are only necessary when a patient's nutrition absorption is impaired or when they engage in hard activities that fatigue the muscles. A one- or two-hour workout does not need the use of food supplements. It is solely required for bodybuilders or athletes.

Even for people who engage in strenuous activity, numerous characteristics such as frequency, nature, and duration of exercise must be considered before prescription protein supplements. They require supplements since they are prone to becoming weak and exhausted after activity. To avoid gastrointestinal troubles, protein should always be coupled with fruits and vegetables.

Side effects of protein powders on the kidneys:

Only protein includes nitrogen among the three macronutrients: carbs, proteins, and fats. Nitrogenous substances can only be eliminated by the kidney. Consuming more protein than necessary might therefore be stressful on the kidneys. A high protein consumption on a regular basis might raise intraglomerular pressure, causing kidney function to deteriorate. Doctors advise that proteins be consumed in conjunction with plenty of water.

I've encountered individuals, particularly young adults and teenagers, who needed to be hospitalized after using protein powders without sufficient education. 

Side effects of excessive protein consumption include:

  • Bone demineralization. 
  • Fatty liver.
  • Kidney disease.
  • High uric acid levels. 
  • Gastrointestinal difficulties.
  • Vitamin insufficiency.

According to nutritionists, there might be various more negative effects that go unnoticed. Many patients' guardians or parents are unaware of this. Many cases go unreported because they are never taken to a doctor. As a result, the specifics of such situations have not been scientifically documented.

Conclusion

According to studies, whey protein and high-protein diets in general may have certain advantages but also some risks. To fully comprehend the potential long-term implications of consuming large amounts of protein in general and whey in particular, more research is required.

It's a good idea to see your doctor first if you're considering using whey protein supplements. For those who have health issues, such as liver or kidney problems, this is especially crucial. Instead of taking supplements, some individuals might want to try eating more meals high in protein. Try whey protein isolate or a non-dairy protein option if whey protein supplements give you digestive adverse effects.

Because it may trigger an allergic response, whey protein should not be consumed by persons who are allergic to cow's milk.