Amazing Whey
enhancement of glutathione production, promotes apoptosis while sparing healthy cells
Amazing Whey
In a recent review article published in Food and Humanity in 2023, researchers explored the potential of whey protein as a critical component in cancer prevention and treatment. Their findings underscore whey protein’s promising role as a cost-effective and accessible strategy for combating cancer, highlighting both its nutritional and therapeutic benefits.
Background
Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with its prevalence rising significantly over the years. This growing health crisis has fueled interest in identifying dietary components and supplements that may aid in cancer prevention and management. Among these, whey protein has emerged as a notable candidate. Available in various forms such as whey protein isolates (WPI), whey protein hydrolysates (WPH), and whey protein concentrates (WPC), whey protein offers varying levels of protein concentration, ranging from 25% to 95% depending on the form.
Whey protein is renowned for its numerous health benefits, including support for weight management, muscle preservation, improved digestive health, blood pressure regulation, and anticancer properties. Its probiotic effects and role as a precursor for bioactive compounds like lactulose and lactobionic acid add to its functional profile. Additionally, whey protein has a low glycemic index and cariogenicity compared to other protein sources, making it a preferred choice for many.
The therapeutic properties of whey protein are attributed to its antioxidant activity, enhancement of glutathione production, promotion of apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, regulation of cell growth and division, and its potential in managing cancer cachexia-anorexia syndrome. These effects are mediated through pathways like insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which plays a role in cell proliferation and growth regulation.
Discovery of Oleic Acid and Alpha-Lactalbumin’s Cancer-Fighting Properties
One of the groundbreaking discoveries in 1995 relating to whey protein is the identification of bioactive components with potent anticancer properties, such as oleic acid and alpha-lactalbumin. Alpha-lactalbumin, in particular, has garnered significant attention for its ability to form a complex with oleic acid, known as HAMLET (Human Alpha-lactalbumin Made LEthal to Tumor cells). HAMLET has been shown to selectively target and induce apoptosis in cancer cells while sparing healthy cells, making it a promising candidate for cancer therapy.
These findings suggest that whey protein is more than just a nutritional supplement; its bioactive compounds could revolutionize cancer treatment by offering targeted and less toxic therapeutic options.
BAMLET (bovine alpha-lactalbumin made lethal to tumor cells) is a complex formed by partially unfolded bovine alpha-lactalbumin and oleic acid and belongs to a new class of tumoricidal molecules with documented cancer specificity. Due to unique properties, results encourage the development of BAMLET for the treatment of highly apoptosis-resistant cancers.
Alpha-Lactalbumin In Bovine Colostrum Whey
Whey protein describes the collection of soluble globular proteins in whey, and is typically a mixture of α-lactalbumin, β-lactalbimun, serum albumins, immunoglobulins, Lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and lysozyme (Pereira, 2014).
The whey protein α-lactalbumin is present in bovine colostrum in large amounts and constitute 28 % of the total protein amount and 40% of the whey protein amount, while β-lactalbumin is present in lower concentrations.
Both have very high nutritional value due to high levels of essential amino acids (Kelleher et al., 2003), while α-lactalbumin also possess antimicrobial properties, and is important in the absorption of calcium and other minerals (Håkansson et al., 2000; Chatterton et al., 2006). Whey is especially rich in the branched amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, valine and lysine (Pereira, 2014).
In Vivo and Clinical Cancer Studies
Animal studies have consistently demonstrated whey protein’s potential in mitigating oxidative stress-induced tissue injuries and reducing cancer risk. For example, diets enriched with whey protein concentrates have been shown to elevate glutathione levels, a critical antioxidant that protects cells from damage and supports immune function. Whey protein has outperformed other protein sources, such as soy and casein, in reducing colorectal cancer incidence.
Subfractions of whey protein, including bovine lactoferrin and alpha-lactalbumin, exhibit robust antitumor effects by inhibiting tumor development. Researchers are also exploring innovative approaches like nanocarriers that incorporate whey protein components to enhance the delivery of anticancer agents with minimal side effects.
Clinical trials in humans have yielded encouraging results, aligning with findings from laboratory and animal studies. Whey protein supplementation has been linked to improved nutritional outcomes, better management of mucositis (a common side effect of chemotherapy), and enhanced immune responses. Additionally, interventions combining whey protein supplementation with dietary guidance and exercise have shown improvements in protein status, handgrip strength, and overall quality of life in cancer patients.
Mechanisms Underlying Whey Protein’s Anticancer Effects
The anticancer properties of whey protein are primarily attributed to its ability to:
- Enhance Glutathione Levels: Glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, plays a crucial role in detoxifying carcinogens and reducing oxidative stress, which are key factors in cancer development.
- Induce Apoptosis: Whey protein promotes apoptosis in cancer cells, disrupting their growth and proliferation.
- Modulate Cell Signaling Pathways: Components like lactoferrin and alpha-lactalbumin influence pathways involved in cancer progression, potentially slowing tumor growth.
- Improve Chemotherapy Outcomes: Whey protein not only boosts immunity but also mitigates the side effects of conventional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy, enhancing their efficacy.
Potential Applications and Future Directions
The review highlights several emerging applications of whey protein in oncology:
- Cancer Prevention: Regular consumption of whey protein could lower the risk of cancer by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing immune defenses.
- Adjunct Therapy: Whey protein’s ability to improve nutritional status and support immune function makes it a valuable addition to standard cancer treatments.
- Innovative Delivery Systems: The development of nanocarriers containing whey protein components could revolutionize cancer therapy by enabling targeted drug delivery and minimizing side effects.
Conclusion
The emerging evidence suggests that whey protein and its bioactive components, such as alpha-lactalbumin and lactoferrin, hold immense potential in cancer prevention and treatment. By enhancing antioxidant defenses, promoting apoptosis, and modulating cell signaling pathways, whey protein offers a multifaceted approach to combating cancer.
While more extensive clinical trials are necessary, the current findings pave the way for integrating whey protein into comprehensive cancer care strategies. As a natural, cost-effective, and nutritionally rich supplement, whey protein could play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and reducing the global cancer burden.
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A true bio active – Immune For Life
Bovine colostrum contains leukocytes, which are cells that may be important for passive immunity. The types of leukocytes in colostrum include:
Macrophages: The most common cell type, making up 50–90% of colostrum leukocytes.
T-lymphocytes: The second most common cell type, making up about 16% of colostrum leukocytes.
B-lymphocytes: A small number of B-lymphocytes are present, usually less than 5%.
Polymorphonuclear cells: Mostly neutrophils, these cells make up 3–6% of colostrum leukocytes.
Epithelial cells: These cells make up 2–15% of colostrum leukocytes.
The number of leukocytes in colostrum can vary depending on the cow’s age, breed, health, and immune status.
Colostrum also contains other bioactive components, such as immunoglobulins, growth factors, vitamins, and hormones.
e book
Immune For Life
Reintroduce yourself to nature’s prescription for health and natural oral immune therapeutics that modulate the gut and systemic biology by using products that are the bio active backbone of immunity. Release the power of activating factors that have transformed the health outcomes of thousands. These and other natural oral immune therapeutics that are beginning to flood the marketplace are promising to shape the future of medicine as safe bio actives for future health products and minimally refined functional foods, including infant formula.Learn how you can quickly begin to transform your gut and immune health today without complicated diets or expensive plans, no matter your age!
Video….
HAMLET and BAMLET were discovered in 1995, I’ve been writing about these amazing substances since 2016. Despite intense world wide research the mechanism for the remarkable anti cancer activity of both substances remains elusive. Perhaps this is why the focus has shifted to incorporating the natural substance into cancer therapy. You can read more about the remarkable benefits of acid whey here….
paperback
Immune For Life
Reintroduce yourself to nature’s prescription for health and natural oral immune therapeutics that modulate the gut and systemic biology by using products that are the bio active backbone of immunity. Release the power of activating factors that have transformed the health outcomes of thousands. These and other natural oral immune therapeutics that are beginning to flood the marketplace are promising to shape the future of medicine as safe bio actives for future health products and minimally refined functional foods, including infant formula.Learn how you can quickly begin to transform your gut and immune health today without complicated diets or expensive plans, no matter your age!
five minute candied walnuts
Quell sugar cravings in a hurry with this quick and easy recipe. Minimally chop in a food processor for a yogurt topping, add to a fruit or green salad or just keep a jar for a snack. A small serving keeps sugar grams within healthy range.
Estimated Nutritional Information per Serving:
4 servings, each serving would contain:
* Calories: Approximately 200-220 kcal
* Total Fat: Around 18-20 grams
* Saturated Fat: About 2-3 grams
* Cholesterol: Approximately 5-7 milligrams
* Sodium: Around 1-2 milligrams
* Total Carbohydrates: About 10-12 grams
* Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2 grams
* Sugars: Around 8-10 grams
* Protein: About 4-5 grams