Whey Protein Supplement: An Exclusive Food or Need of the Hour: Review

Abstract

Background: Protein is an essential portion of food that exerts beneficial effects on body composition and metabolism. However, protein-rich foods are costly and scarcely available in developing countries, and protein deficiency is a significant public health concern. In this situation, searching for additional dietary protein sources is of utmost importance due to decreasing resources because of the growing global population. The current literature review is about whey protein as it is the cheapest, readily available protein source. Methods: Milk is formed of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey is different from the casein in milk and is formed as a by-product of the cheese-making process. Whey (the liquid left after milk curdling) was deemed a waste by the dairy industry for decades. However, it is the cheapest protein source for the poor growing populations in developing countries. Whey protein is a complete protein as it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is low in lactose content. Conclusion: Human body cannot make essential amino acids, so it is necessary to get enough of them from the diet. Due to the availability of carbohydrates, fat, immunoglobulins, lactose, and minerals, including essential amino acids in whey protein, it is necessary for human energy. There are many benefits related to whey protein consumption, such as muscle building and loss of fat. New possible therapeutic properties of whey protein have to be investigated further for the full utility to humans.