A healthy immune system supports the body fight off colds and illnesses, recover faster, and maintain a general sense of wellbeing. This article explores the connection between whey protein and the immune system.
It is well known that food and nutrition play a key role in immune function, and that a healthy balanced diet supports the body. Certain foods, including protein, can support the immune system.
One of the body’s most complex systems
To understand the connection, the immune system itself is the starting point. It consists of organs, cells, and proteins that work together to protect against harmful external agents and microbes. When faced with pathogens, the immune system launches into action, blocking viruses and clearing bacteria. Once activated, it raises demand for energy and certain nutrients, making good nutrition more important.
Direct control over the immune system is not possible, but it can be supported through maintaining overall health and consuming a balanced diet. Proteins, including whey protein, play a role in immune function, as most cells in the immune system are composed of protein.
The power of amino acids
Whey protein is a useful protein source for immune support, as it contains all the amino acids needed for healthy body functions. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and are used by the immune system during infection and illness to support recovery. recover.
When the body lacks sufficient amino acids, it takes them out of tissues like muscles to provide them to the immune system. Muscle weakness and physical run-down can further deplete immune function, making the body more prone to colds and illnesses.
Whey protein — a complete source
The body needs twenty different amino acids to stay healthy, nine of which can only be obtained from food. Whey protein contains all nine essential amino acids and many more, making it a complete protein.
The main amino acids found in whey protein that contribute to immune support:
Essential amino acids: There are nine essential amino acids, all only obtainable from the diet. Whey protein contains all of them.
Branched-chain amino acids: These amino acids are required to boost immune cells, and whey protein is their richest natural source.
Sulphur amino acids: These amino acids are needed to make glutathione, the body’s main intracellular antioxidant that protects cells from damage and infection.
Immunoglobulins: Also called antibodies, enabling the immune system to recognise specific parts of foreign microbes and protect the body against them.
Lactoferrin: A multi-functional protein that can bind iron, restricting bacterial growth.
Protein in a healthy diet
Protein alone does not ensure good health, not even whey protein. Protein should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Guidelines defining a healthy diet vary by location, as each country establishes its own national recommendations based on dietary evidence and local food culture. Across all regions, however, protein in some form is consistently recommended as part of a healthy diet.
Whey protein provides a sure source of protein that contains all the essential nutrients needed to retain and build muscle. It is possible to combine other sources of protein to provide all the essential amino acids, but with whey protein this is not a concern. By incorporating it into the daily diet, all essential amino acids required by the immune system can be obtained.
References:
Bourke, C.D., et Al. (2016) Prendergast, Immune Dysfunction as a Cause and Consequence of Malnutrition. Trends Immunol, 37(6): p. 386-398.
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