Whey Protein Concentrate boosts immunity

Ask a bodybuilder what distinguishes Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) from other proteins and improved immunity is not likely to rate a mention. But a recent study proves just how powerful this unique benefit really is.

 

After a six-month trial at Mainz University Hospital in Germany, doctors found that supplementation with WPC increased glutathione levels by up to 56 percent in 30 patients with advanced HIV infection.

 

The body's most powerful antioxidant, glutathione (GSH) is commonly depleted in conditions of depressed immunity, as there is an extra burden on GSH to fight against infection and disease. WPC is rich in peptides and the amino acid cysteine which are all important for glutathione production.

 

WPC is a staple for many people aiming to gain muscle, burn fat or balance their diet. It is also widely used by HIV patients to help manage tissue wastage and maintain a strong immune system.

 

Nutritionist Leigh Blashki explains how the immune benefits of WPC can assist both the active and immune-compromised.

 

"On the surface it might seem that those who train hard and those recovering from or dealing with debilitating illness are worlds apart. However both groups of people have two things in common: the need to rebuild broken down muscle tissue (from either training or the progression of illness) and the need to maintain a high 'antioxidant status' and optimum immune function.

 

"However, catabolism (muscle breakdown) and immune compromise are not mutually exclusive, but are in fact often co-existent and co-dependent. When muscle breaks down, cells are more vulnerable to free radical attack, placing an extra demand upon the immune system and when the immune system is 'struggling', the repair of muscle tissue (anabolism) is compromised and muscle growth does not keep pace with muscle breakdown.

 

"So WPC is nothing short of a godsend whether for anyone who trains, anyone who is immune compromised or both! This amazing food simultaneously supports the immune system, while providing the optimal nutritional underpinnings for muscle repair and growth."