Impact of Chronic Use of Whey Protein Isolate in Two Doses Using an Experimental Model

Abstract

There is limited evidence in the scientific literature regarding the chronic use of whey protein and its potentially adverse effects or toxicity. We evaluated the impact of chronic use of whey protein in two doses using an experimental model. Adult male Wistar rats (n = 30) were supplemented with two different doses: 3125 mg/kg and 6250 mg/kg of whey protein isolate for 90 days. Biochemical, hematological, tissue, morphological, and behavioral analysis were evaluated. The whey-treated groups significantly increased their weight compared to the control (p < 0.05). Biochemical and hematological parameters were unchanged, except for glucose, higher in the 6250 mg/kg group (p < 0.05). The behavioral analysis showed no relevant difference (p > 0.05). The organs analysis showed an absolute increase in liver, right kidney, and heart weights in the whey-treated group compared to the control (p < 0.05). This study suggests that whey protein isolate has no toxicity when supplemented at such doses for 90 days. These doses also appeared to have the same effect regarding weight gain and absolute organs weight. This research corroborates with current literature; however, further work is needed to safely investigate the chronic use of whey supplements at a higher dose.