Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review

Abstract

Whey protein is composed of soluble whey proteins and its benefits are well described in the literature. However, there are not many studies investigating the potential adverse effect of a diet with indiscriminate use of this supplement. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of papers that addressed this theme. A search was conducted in Medline, Lilacs, Toxnet, Web of science, and Scopus electronic databases. In the end, 11 documents composed this review. The majority of the papers associated the damaging effect with the chronic and abusive use of whey protein, the kidneys and liver being the main organs affected. The other studies related whey protein to aggravation of aggression, presence of acne and modification of the microbiota. Therefore, excessive consumption over a long period of protein supplementation may have some adverse effects on the body, being aggravated when associated with sedentary lifestyle. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020140466.
 Novelty Bullets: 
 • A systematic review of experimental and randomized studies about the use of whey proteins supplements and its impact on physical health.
 • Analysis revealed that chronic and without professional guidance use of whey protein supplementation may cause some adverse effects specially on kidney and liver function. 
 • Presented data support a need for future studies co-relating the use of different types of whey protein with and without exercise to better see the impact on human physical health.

(Wh)olistic (E)ndocannabinoidome-Microbiome-Axis Modulation through (N)utrition (WHEN) to Curb Obesity and Related Disorders

“…Recent data [ 246 ] have shown that whey protein supplementation reduces fasting levels of anandamide and 2-AG without promoting weight loss in pre-menopausal women with obesity on a weight-loss diet. Interestingly, whey protein has also been suggested to modify the microbiota, although not necessarily with beneficial effects [ 247 ]. Indeed, the type of source of proteins and amino acids may also be crucial because two recent studies in obese mice have shown that: i) dietary essential amino acids affect gut microbiota composition and NAA levels in the adipose tissue and plasma of obese mice, thereby enhancing energy expenditure [ 248 ]; and ii) casein proteins instead exacerbate hepatic insulin resistance due to the increased gut microbial branched-chain fatty acids [ 249 ].…”

Impact of nutritional protein supplements on liver and kidney functions among athletes attending gym

“…Because of its high bioavailability and solubility, as well as a greater proportion of important amino acids, such as leucine, whey protein extract has been recommended as the best suitable form of protein for strength and endurance athletes, insulin secretion stimulation, and muscle protein oxidation prevention [14] [15] [16]. Amateur athletes, in particular, frequently consume whey protein on their own prescription, which they usually purchase directly from dealers or via websites, neglecting the potential hazards related to chronic and high intake of a specific nutrient, such as proteins [17]. A healthy adult population requires 0.8 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, according to a worldwide consensus.…”

Discussion of “Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review” — Unsubstantiated claims of adverse effects of whey protein supplementation on human kidney and liver function

“…I read with great interest the systematic review recently published by Vasconcelos et al (2021), which investigated the potential adverse effects of whey protein supplementation on health, including both human trials and animal models experiments (Vasconcelos et al 2021). Several review studies have shown beneficial effects of whey protein supplementation on human health, providing protection against a wide range of metabolic diseases such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes (Badely et al 2019;Pal and Radavelli-Bagatini 2013;Patel 2015;Wirunsawanya et al 2018).…”

“…Intriguingly, Vasconcelos et al (2021) presented that whey protein supplementation "may cause some adverse effects especially on kidney and liver function" (Vasconcelos et al 2021). This is the first systematic review that provides a warning on the potential adverse effects of whey protein supplementation but, unfortunately, some results have been misreported and the conclusions drawn by the authors are, in my view, unsubstantiated.…”