Evidence supporting the use of: Whey protein
For the health condition: Wasting

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Whey protein is scientifically validated as a nutritional intervention for the treatment and support of wasting, particularly in conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer cachexia, chronic illnesses, and age-related sarcopenia. Wasting, or unintentional loss of muscle mass and weight, is often linked to inadequate protein intake, increased protein breakdown, and/or impaired protein synthesis. Whey protein is a high-quality, complete protein containing all essential amino acids, with a rich supply of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), especially leucine, which is crucial for muscle protein synthesis.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that supplementation with whey protein can help preserve or increase lean body mass in individuals experiencing wasting. For example, randomized controlled trials in HIV-positive individuals and elderly patients have shown that whey protein supplementation can enhance muscle mass, improve strength, and support immune function. A 2012 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association found that whey protein supplementation improved muscle mass and performance in older adults, a population at risk for wasting.

Whey protein is also rapidly digested and absorbed, making it effective for stimulating muscle protein synthesis post-ingestion. Its use is widely recommended in clinical nutrition guidelines for the management of protein-energy malnutrition and muscle wasting. While more research may be warranted for some specific causes of wasting, the current body of evidence strongly supports the use of whey protein as a therapeutic intervention for this condition.

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