Whey protein powder is a simple and handy approach for people to increase their protein intake. However, as hormonal abnormalities become more common and more people become aware of the usage of growth hormones on farms, worries about the potential relationship between whey protein and estrogen dominance are growing.
Is Whey Protein High In Estrogen?
Whey protein contains estrogen since it originates from cow’s milk. Estrogen is mostly derived from the hormone estradiol, which is naturally found in cows, as well as phytoestrogens found in soy (since cows are usually fed soy). Overall, whey powders contain less estrogen than other powders, such as soy, which is inherently higher in estrogen.
Despite the fact that estrogen levels are normally low, it’s crucial to note that each person’s biology is unique. If whey powder is consumed for a long time, such “small” quantities of estrogen may nonetheless have an unfavorable effect.
Does Whey Protein Affect Estrogen?
When it comes to the effect of whey protein on estrogen, there is a lot of contradicting information. On the one hand, studies show that whey protein may reduce estrogen production. However, the lower levels of estrogen in whey powders, along with the digestive actions of whey, may have a detrimental impact on estrogen.
One thing to keep in mind is that the study that revealed a decrease in estrogen was conducted on males. As a result, we don’t know if the same estrogen-lowering effects would occur in women (which would be bad because too little estrogen might lead to additional problems).
When it comes to whey’s effects on the digestive system, it’s possible that it plays a role in elevated estrogen levels because:
Many commercial protein powders have been found to contain heavy metals and BPA, according to research (a component of plastic that has estrogenic effects). In fact, the level of BPA found in the study was found to be up to 25 times the allowed limit. Because there are so many toxins, the liver needs to work harder to eliminate them. If the liver isn’t functioning properly, toxins can build up and contribute to estrogen dominance.
The whey is difficult for the body to digest. Whey is highly processed, and the powder may contain chemicals that cause stomach irritation, depending on the brand. Inflammation in the stomach, however, might make it more difficult for the body to control estrogen production and metabolism effectively.
What Effect Does Whey Protein Have On Your Period?
Whey protein may include estrogen, heavy metals, and other pollutants that lead to inflammation and hormonal imbalance, depending on the quality. Because hormones control the menstrual cycle, consuming low-quality whey protein on a daily basis might disrupt the cycle.
How To Choose A Good Quality Whey Powder?
Whey protein, in general, will always include trace quantities of estrogens (i.e. the natural estrogen that the cow produces). However, you may take measures to select a high-quality whey powder that is free of synthetic/added estrogen and other contaminants.
It’s critical to limit your exposure to these substances in order to avoid any negative effects the powder may have on your hormones.
When shopping for whey powder, search for one that meets the following criteria:
- Made from 100% grass-fed cows.
- Hormone, pesticide and antibiotic-free.
- Organic (or at least non GMO).
- Contains no added sugar (this includes things like maltodextrin and sugar alcohols like sorbitol, which can be inflammatory for some people).
- Gluten-free (gluten-containing chemicals might cause inflammation in some people even if they don’t have celiac disease).
- Not a concentrate, but a “isolate.” Lactose content is lower in whey isolate than in whey concentrate. Lactose deficiency results in fewer pro-inflammatory chemicals.
- This powder from Opportuniteas is one that I recommend. It’s a grass-fed whey isolate that’s devoid of GMOs and hormones. Furthermore, this powder has only two ingredients:
- Whey protein (approximately 99%)
- Sunflower lecithin (around 1%), which aids in the powder’s dissolving without clumping.
Estrogen-Free Protein Powder (Whey Alternatives)
If you want to skip whey protein completely, the best option is to use a plant-based protein powder composed from ingredients such as:
- Peas
- Hemp
- Rice
- Seeds (chia or pumpkin, for example)
- Quinoa
- Amaranth
Because peas, hemp, and quinoa are complete proteins, they should be prioritized when picking a powder. This implies they have all of the necessary amino acids the body requires.
Please be aware, however, that the quantities of particular amino acids in these plant proteins will differ from whey.
Protein powder, on the other hand, should only be used to supplement your diet. It’s not meant to take the place of a well-balanced diet.
So long as you consume a diet that includes other whole food sources of protein, you’ll be able to receive enough of the amino acids you require.
Finally, to make sure your protein powder is actually estrogen-free, follow these steps:
Make sure there’s no soy in the ingredients list.
Conclusion
Although whey protein may be taken as a protein supplement, it has the potential to affect estrogen levels and the menstrual cycle. As a result, plant-based protein sources are preferable. Keep in mind that your diet can provide you with all of the protein you require. Protein supplements aren’t necessary.
FAQs About Whey Protein And High Estrogen
What Are The Side Effects Of Too Much Whey Protein?
Too much whey protein can induce bloating, diarrhea, gas, and cramps in the digestive system. Furthermore, too much whey may result in headaches and exhaustion (source).
Is It Harmful To Have Two Protein Shakes Every Day?
While it’s fine to consume two shakes every now and then, doing so on a daily basis might lead to additional issues. The biggest worry is that the more protein shakes you consume each day, the fewer whole food protein sources you consume.
Protein powders, other from their protein content, don’t usually include any additional nutrients. Whole food protein sources, such as beans, include fiber, antioxidants, magnesium, iron, folate, and a variety of other minerals.
So, if you drink a protein shake instead of eating a full food source of protein, you’re also depriving yourself of all those other nutrients. This might lead to inadequacies and imbalances in the body in the long run.