Are You Intolerant/ Sensitive to Whey Protein?

Mar 1, 2018

Can your body handle whey protein?

Some individuals lack sufficient activity of the lactase enzyme. In this case, lactose that hasn’t been digested needs to go through the stomach and to the intestines. Within this process, gas is produced which leads to bloating, cramps and possibly diarrhea. This is known as lactose intolerance.

A protein allergy/intolerance is also common. Casein and whey may lead to extreme inflammation and the creation of mucus. Mucus leads to blockages in our airways. Although a product may portray it is of a high quality isolate, most whey protein concentrates comprise of lactose. Several protein powders are also sweetened with sugar alcohols to avoid having a high calorie product. Unfortunately our bodies are not capable of absorbing them very well so this may lead to issues as well.

Some things you can try
1) Try a different protein brand. Some brands may have too much lactose that is causing you to feel bloated and gassy.
2) Try a rice protein to see if you are intolerant to milk protein. Most rice proteins are now created to include all of the amino acids.
3) Consider taking dairy out for a few days to see if this may be the issue.

It’s important to give yourself time to figure this issue out. If you still feel bloated a few days after having a protein shake, it still may be in your system which is causing you these issues. It can take up to 3 days for symptoms to subside.