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Through allergy testing (blood test) I have found out that I am intolerant to Wheat and Dairy. I exercicse frequently and like to build and maintain muscle mass. Until recently I was drinking Whey protein shakes to help support this. I realise I can still get plenty of protein from meat, eggs, nuts, beans etc. However there are times when a protein shake is much more convenient. So my question is can my body still digest Whey protein even though I am intolerant to dairy? Naturopath's Answer
Whey protein is sourced from dairy. Your ability to digest and tolerate a whey protein depends on the specificity of the allergen testing you had done. Dairy allergy can result from an intolerance of lactose (a milk sugar), casein (protein component of dairy) or lipid (fat content). It is important to state that intolerance and allergy are two different reactions mediated by different inflammatory processes in the body.
Intolerances usually develop as a result of digestive underfunction which may be caused by a variety of factors including stress, infection, infestation, poor diet and bacterial imbalance.
Allergies are generally more serious involving an immune mediated reaction and symptoms which generally worsen with repeated exposure to the trigger.
If your dairy intolerance is attributed to lactose or casein you may find that you tolerate a whey protein that has a high protein content. Whey protein Isolate (WPI) has 90-95% protein and contains little to no lactose. It is not unusual for people with lactose intolerance to have no reaction to Whey protein Isolate.
Similarly Whey protein Isolate will contain little casein and so should be fine for you if you have an intolerance. If your problem is with lactose and you find you still react to the Whey Protein Isolate you might like to try using the digestive enzyme lactase (sold as Lacteez). This enzyme will allow you to digest the lactose. The product is sold in drops and tablets. Using this enzyme in combination with a naturopathically prescribed digestive repair protocols will often see the reversal of a lactose intolerance and other food intolerances. The Lacteez product is also very useful if you are eating out.
The other factor to consider is that there are other types of protein powders that are not animal or wheat derived. Protein powders such as pea protein isolate, soy protein and vege protein are all suitable alternatives that mix well into protein shakes. Flannerys stocks various protein powders which are free from additives and preservatives which are sold in bulk or available in quality retail brands such as Designer Physique.
The information presented on this page has been prepared by a fully qualified naturopath and is for educational purposes only. It does not take into consideration your specific circumstances and is not intended to replace the services of a health practitioner. Any application of the material in this text is at the reader’s discretion and sole responsibility. If you have a persistent health condition or your symptoms are severe please consult a qualified healthcare provider.