Is Whey Protein Good for Diabetics?

In today's world, diabetes is the most commonly found disease. As per the World Health Organisation reports, around 422 million people worldwide are diabetic patients, and almost 1.5 million deaths directly caused by diabetes are reported each year. Diabetes is often called the "silent killer ."This is because its symptoms are very mild and thus easily overlooked, especially in its early stages. However, over a span of time, diabetes can cause blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, and many other ailments.

Thus, if you are a diabetic patient, you must take steps to curb its harmful effects immediately. Making suitable lifestyle changes along with medication can help manage your diabetes. One such lifestyle change can be including whey protein in your daily diet. However, you might still be asking, "Is whey protein good for diabetics?" or "Can diabetics drink whey protein?"

To get an answer to all of your questions, read this article to learn what whey protein is, the health benefits it offers, and whether diabetic patients can consume whey protein. 

What is a Whey Protein for Diabetic Patients?

A whey protein is an admixture of proteins separated from whey, which is the liquid part of the milk. This liquid part separates during the process of cheese production. Whey protein is a complete protein that contains all the nine amino acids required for the maintenance and growth of your body. It is not only a good source of calcium but also low in lactose. 

Whey protein shakes for diabetics can be prepared by mixing them with either milk or water. It is added to food items such as yogurt and energy bars. Recent findings suggest that whey protein may be pivotal in keeping Type 2 diabetes under check. Numerous studies have shown that this diabetic protein powder reduces triglyceride levels, especially if consumed after meals, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and enhances insulin sensitivity. 

The Effectiveness of Whey Protein

Whey protein is an excellent source of protein for optimal health. Consumption of whey protein offers numerous health benefits, and researchers are constantly coming up with new possible therapeutic properties of this "complete protein." Listed below are some of the benefits of consuming whey protein:

1. High-Quality Protein

The two major proteins found in milk are whey and casein. While many people are intolerant of casein, very few people seem to have any kind of sensitivity to whey protein. This high-quality, comprehensive protein contains all the necessary amino acids necessary for building muscle mass and increasing fat loss. As compared to other sources of protein, whey protein can be digested easily and is also available in easily dissolvable powder form. 

2. Promotes Muscle Growth

Muscle mass tends to decrease with an increase in age. However, you can maintain the strength of your body muscles by consuming whey protein. Whey protein is highly effective in promoting muscle growth and supporting muscle mass. 

3. Helps Manage Type 2 Diabetes

The most commonly known symptoms of Type 2 diabetes are insulin failure and high blood sugar levels. Insulin is responsible for the absorption of sugar into the cells of your body, thus ensuring that the blood sugar level remains below the acceptable limit. Whey protein powder for diabetics has demonstrated its ability to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. 

4. Lowers Cholesterol

Consumption of whey protein might help in lowering LDL and significantly increasing HDL. A compound called lactoferrin is present in whey protein. This compound helps prevent LDL from hardening your arteries. It is highly efficient in lowering triglycerides - the fat found in abundance in one's body. High levels of triglycerides may harden your arteries and increase the chances of stroke and heart attack. 

Conclusion

Well, you must have been fully convinced that whey protein powder is diabetic-friendly if consumed in measured quantities. Whey protein for diabetic patients can do wonders! Ingestion of whey protein, when paired up with following exercise and dietary guidelines, can significantly help you manage blood sugar. However, speaking to your healthcare provider before including whey protein in your diet is advisable. Also, do your research to choose the best whey protein for diabetics.