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Whey protein is possibly one of the most popular supplements among athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts, but not everybody’s body gets along with it. Whether you experience bloating, skin issues, or even full-blown digestive discomfort, you may wonder, “Am I allergic to whey protein?” So, let’s dive into this, and explore symptoms, causes, and alternatives for Whey Protein Allergy below.
What is Whey Protein?
Whey protein is the high-quality protein extracted from milk, as a byproduct of cheese making. This is the reason why it is rich in essential amino acids, therefore many use it for muscle recovery, weight management, and health in general. However, it is not suited to everyone. Due to the negative responses involved in allergic reactions, Whey Protein Allergy is often misdiagnosed as lactose intolerance or another digestive condition.
Whey Protein Allergy vs. Lactose Intolerance: Understanding the Difference
Before jumping to conclusions, let’s differentiate between a whey protein allergy and lactose intolerance:
Whey Protein Allergy: This is an immune system response to the proteins found in whey. An allergic individual mistakenly identifies whey protein as an allergen and responds to the protein by releasing the histamines, and inflammatory mediators that cause the mild to severe allergic reactions.
Lactose Intolerance: This is a form of digestive issue in which the body fails to have the lactase enzyme that is required to break down lactose, the sugar in milk. People with lactose intolerance may have gas, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products, but these people are not allergic to the protein itself.
Symptoms of a Whey Protein Allergy
Some individuals experience severe allergies, while others have symptoms different from one case to another.
1. Digestive Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps are all common issues.
2. Skin Reactions: There is a condition of eczema, or even hives, along with the urge to itch sometimes after consuming whey protein.
3. Respiratory Problems: These include wheezing, coughing, and nasal congestion.
4. Anaphylaxis: Under extreme situations, they cause dangerous, potentially lethal reactions- lung constraints due to swelling of the throat or blood pressure lowering.
Causes of Whey Protein Allergy
A whey protein allergy occurs when the immune system considers proteins in whey, be it beta-lactoglobulin or alpha-lactalbumin, as dangerous and hence stimulates an immune response that causes the above symptoms. However, some cases arise during adulthood. Others are more associated with infant and early childhood periods.
If you do have a Whey Protein Allergy, there are many other alternatives of quality protein that can easily be found
1. Plant-Based Protein: Okay, so you have your Pea protein, Rice protein, and Hemp protein. These are all vegan-friendly.
2. Egg White Protein: This is an easily digestible, non-dairy source of protein high in essential amino acids.
3. Collagen Protein: This is an animal-source protein from connective tissues, hypoallergenic, and can also help with skin, hair, and joint health.
4. Soy Protein: A complete source of protein that contains all the essential amino acids; however, some people remain sensitive to soy.
Whey Protein Allergy Treatment
The following Ayurvedic medicines would ease symptoms of whey protein allergy
1. Turmeric: Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and antihistamine medicinal agent. This is the classical Ayurvedic formulation to treat skin allergic reactions, urticaria, and itching.
2. Triphala: This is a combination of three fruits: Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Amalaki that cleanse the system to improve gut health. The elimination of toxins (ama) in the body reduces allergic symptoms.
3. Neem: Neem has natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, so it will be helpful for skin reactions and reducing allergic flare-ups.
4. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an herb that comes with a set of immune-boosting properties. It reduces the allergic responses of the body through the strengthening of the immune system.
5. Guduchi: Known as “Amrit” in Ayurveda, Guduchi is actually one of the best herbs for boosting immunity and alleviating allergies, reducing hypersensitivity of the body to allergens.
6. Pippali: Pippali is useful in alleviating allergic reactions including symptoms in respiratory patterns like wheezing, coughing, and nasal congestion, aids the digestive system, and helps the body eliminate toxins.
7. Chyawanprash: It has antioxidants and vitamin C, which keep the immune system activated and increase allergic sensitivity over time.
Tips to Manage Whey Protein Allergy?
- Avoid synthetic whey protein which is infused with plenty of chemicals.
- Switch to natural protein powder for better results.
- Try natural alternatives of protein like moringa, chia seeds, Ashwagandha, and many more.
- Follow the above mentioned home remedies for quick relief from allergy symptoms.
When to See the Doctor?
Please follow the above mentioned home remedies as they are completely safe and help you overcome some allergic symptoms. Even after trying all these remedies, if you still feel you’ve allergic reactions, then please consult an ayurvedic doctor who has the best experience in the field and can help you get rid of whey protein allergy naturally. If you’ve any doubts about following these home remedies, then feel free to ask us, our Ayurveda experts will be glad to help you!
Wrapping up!
Whey Protein Allergy, though rare, can be quite discomforting and dangerous if left unchecked. Knowing your symptoms and how to deal with them will do good for you and your health. If you suspect a whey protein allergy, you should include the above mentioned herbs and look for other protein sources that will meet your fitness and diet requirements.
Natural solutions by Ayurveda for meeting protein requirements without side effects like dairy-based proteins, a holistic approach to wellness. If you still suffer from Whey Protein Allergy, then book an online consultation with our Ayurveda expert to get treated naturally and live an allergy-free life.
