Key takeaways
- While limited research indicates whey protein may help manage ulcerative colitis (UC) symptoms by supporting gut bacteria and reducing inflammation, more studies with human subjects are needed to confirm these benefits.
- Consuming too much protein could negatively affect UC, potentially impairing intestinal healing during flare-ups; individuals with UC should consult a healthcare professional before regularly using protein powders.
- When choosing protein powders, people should consider options like whey with psyllium husk, casein, or pea protein, while being mindful of potential additives like sugars, lactose, and toxins.
UC is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the large intestine, causing inflammation and ulcers. Doctors usually treat the condition with medications to reduce inflammation or surgery to remove the colon and rectum.
This article discusses whey protein consumption for people with UC. It also lists potential risks and alternatives to whey protein powder.
Whey protein forms when the milk proteins “whey” and “casein” separate. Whey protein contains a wide range of essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Experts refer to it as a complete protein.
Authors of a 2024 review concluded that protein supplementation has a beneficial effect on IBD symptoms through various pathways, including aiding a healthy diet, supporting beneficial gut bacteria, improving gut health, and reducing inflammation associated with IBDs.
However, it is important to note that much of the research in the above review, and other recent studies, involve animal models or only small human samples.
This means that while there are possible benefits for people with UC, there is insufficient evidence to confirm this definitively. Further research involving humans is necessary to test the efficacy of whey protein for people with UC and IBD.
While certain protein powders and drinks may have benefits, researchers are still investigating the types and quantities of protein that will be most beneficial for people with IBD.
Importantly, a
Specifically, it may impair the healing of the intestinal mucosa following a flare-up of the disease. Further research is necessary to determine a safe and effective quantity of protein for people with IBD.
People with UC should speak with their dietitian or healthcare professional before taking protein powders on a regular basis. They should also watch their symptoms closely and stop taking protein powder drinks if symptoms worsen or flare up.
Protein powders are popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts as a way of improving muscle tone and fitness levels while controlling appetite. But individuals should consider that some protein powders may contain ingredients including:
- Added sugars and calories: Regularly consuming excess calories may cause weight gain.
- Lactose: Although lactose is a naturally occurring milk sugar that is fine for most people, it may be an issue for those with extreme lactose intolerance.
- Toxins: These may include heavy metals and pesticides. Choose a third-party tested product to minimize the risk of contamination.
People can consume protein and other nutrients from dietary sources. Those who prefer to consume protein through whole food sources can try:
- eggs
- fish
- poultry
- lean meats
- lentils
- tofu
- milk
- yogurt
- cheese
- nuts and seeds
- quinoa
People who are interested in consuming protein powders for gut health have multiple options to choose from.
Whey with psyllium husk
Psyllium husk powder derives from the seeds of the medicinal plant Plantago ovata. Although psyllium husk powder is not a protein powder, manufacturers may add it to whey powder to improve its digestibility. So people with digestive issues may benefit from whey protein powders with added psyllium.
Psyllium husk powder may have additional benefits for people with UC. The plant helps draw water into the intestines, which can soften stools and ease constipation – a common symptom of IBD.
A
Casein protein powder
Like whey protein, casein protein also derives from milk. The key difference between the two proteins is the digestion time. Casein takes longer to digest than whey powder. As a result, it provides a slower, steadier release of amino acids.
Pea protein powder
Pea protein is a low-fat, plant-based protein powder that derives from yellow split peas. It may be a suitable alternative to whey powder for the following people:
- vegans
- people who are extremely sensitive to lactose
- people with allergies to other types of protein
But a
The American Institute for Cancer Research also warns that pea protein is low in the essential amino acid methionine. As such, it encourages anyone taking pea protein to consume it in combination with other sources of protein.
Limited research in animals suggests that whey protein may help ease the symptoms of UC and other IBDs. But there is also evidence to suggest that too much protein can worsen IBD symptoms or cause a flare-up of the disease.
Further research involving human participants is necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of whey protein and other types of protein for the treatment of UC and other IBDs.
People who are concerned about taking a protein powder can try modifying their diet to include extra protein. But a person who has IBD should talk with their doctor or a nutritionist before making any dietary changes.