Can I consume whey protein if I'm lactose intolerant?

The answer is simple: yes. Whey protein offers significant benefits even for those with lactose intolerance. It’s a high-quality nutrition source that provides essential amino acids -- in just the right amount -- that are easily absorbed. Benefits of whey protein consumption include rapid muscle recovery, increased muscle building, a proven impact on body fat and better immune system response.

What is lactose intolerance?

Those who are lactose intolerant cannot fully digest lactose, which is a sugar found in milk and its derivatives, according to the Mayo Clinic. The human body digests lactose with an enzyme known as lactase.

Lactose intolerance is very common. About 65% of the world’s population have difficulty digesting lactose after childhood, according to data from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Renal Diseases of the United States (NIH).

Is being lactose intolerant a serious condition?

No, it isn't. It can be fought by reducing lactose consumption or with tablets or drops that aid in digestion. Blood tests, breath testing or stool analysis can be used for diagnosis.

Lactose intolerance doesn’t present in the same way in all cases. Some people have greater tolerance than others. For instance, some cannot properly digest milk, but can consume derivatives such as yogurt or cheese without discomfort.

Which whey protein should you choose?

Those with lactose intolerance can still benefit from whey protein. Using whey protein isolate can limit the likelihood of discomfort. It has a minimum purity of 90% protein and there is little to no lactose in the final ingredient. However, the best practice is to read supplement ingredient labels completely and contact the manufacturer if there is any doubt about how much lactose it may contain.

If you want to learn more about whey protein, visit agropur.com/us for more information.

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