Research Review Flexes Whey Protein's Muscles

Last week, Dairy Management Inc. (DMI), Rosemont, IL, reported that recent analysis of research related to the relationship between whey protein and muscle building and maintenance might lay the foundation for future label claims. The results of this review were presented at the Dairy Innovation Forum in Scottsdale, AZ, in early Feb. 2006.

DMI notes this review conclusively permits a new structure/function claim, "Whey protein helps maintain and build new muscle mass." Structure/function claims do not need FDA approval, but do require a supportive foundation of sound science. DMI also suggests manufacturers might choose to highlight the level of whey protein in a given product. Products that deliver "good" sources should have at least 5 grams of whey protein per reference serving while "excellent" sources should have at least 10 grams per reference serving.

This review effort was spearheaded by Tia Rains, Ph.D., nutrition research consultant for DMI and an adjunct faculty member, Rosalind Franklin University, North Chicago, IL. One study demonstrated that milk protein simulates whole-body protein synthesis under resting conditions (2003; Bos et al., Journal of Nutrition; 133:1,308-1,315), another showed that casein and whey both simulate whole-body protein synthesis (1997; Boire et al., PNAS; 94:14,930-14,935), while yet another demonstrated that whey and casein both promote muscle protein synthesis after exercise (2004; Tipton et al., Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise; 36:2,073-2,081). Rains considered several other studies, including some that suggest whey might aid protein building in aging individuals, during her comprehensive review.

"There is a consensus that whey is a high-quality protein that provides all of the essential amino acids necessary for the normal growth and maintenance of lean body mass," says Rains. In her research conclusions, she notes that further research is required to replicate earlier studies and compare the effectiveness of different protein sources.

For more information on the structure/function claim for whey protein, call DMI's dairy technical support hotline at 800/248-8829.