Whey protein to the rescue: Brain-boosting benefits?

Whey protein shakes have long appealed to fitness enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, for years, many of you have overlooked these drinks.

But research continues to highlight the health-boosting benefits of high-quality whey protein powder—beyond building muscle.

In fact, this latest finding shows this protein powder could be a tasty “whey” to stave off cognitive decline!

A dietary hack

A new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial explored how whey protein powder affects cognitive function in 107 adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a common precursor to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Subjects were between the ages of 55 and 80. And the trial lasted for one year.

(For transparency, I must note that the manufacturer of the whey protein used in the trial funded the study.)

Participants were given either 15 grams (g) of whey protein daily or a placebo. Then, using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCa), researchers assessed the participants at baseline, six months, and 12 months.

By the end of study, researchers linked whey protein to significantly improved global cognitive function scores (overall cognitive ability).

In addition, several secondary cognitive outcomes improved in the whey protein group. (For example, participants scored better on the digit symbol substitution test.)

Plus, not only did participants experience mental improvement, but their physical health also improved. Participants who received whey protein also improved their body mass index (BMI) and muscle mass.

This is important because other research has found an association between frailty or muscle loss and cognitive decline.

Whole-body benefits

While this was a smaller study, the implications are significant.

After all, supplementing with whey protein is tasty and simple. And the health benefits (backed by human clinical trials) are vast.

In fact, research suggests a positive link between whey protein and cancer patients. And its potential holds strong for weight loss, muscle mass preservation, digestion, and blood pressure, to boot.

So, why not add it to your healthy diet?

For the record, I’ve always included it in my daily routine—especially on workout days.

And get this…

You don’t always have to drink it. You can cook with it too!

Click here to see my recipe for a delicious protein shake.

And click here to learn how I incorporate it into dessert crepes.

Furthermore, for a comprehensive, science-backed protocol to help fight against dementia, check out my Alzheimer’s Prevention and Treatment Plan. Click here to learn more.

Source:

“Enriched whey protein supplement improves mild cognitive impairment: BYHEALTH Study.” NutraIngredients, 12/02/2024. (nutraingredients.com/Article/2024/12/02/byhealth-study-shows-cognitive-benefits-for-enriched-whey-protein-supplement/)