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Antihypertensive Effects of a Hydrolyzed
Whey Protein
Hypertension is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is a widespread condition, currently affecting over 80 million Americans. Recently protein supplementation has been investigated by the University of Minnesota Medical School and the results presented at the 2002 meeting of the International Society of Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy. A double-blinded, randomized, and placebo controlled study hypothesized that a 20g dose of hydrolyzed whey protein isolate (the study used BioZate 1 brand) would reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over the course of weeks. Thirty un-medicated, non-smoking, borderline hypertensive men and women were randomized to the hydrolyzed whey protein group or a control group given an un-hydrolyzed protein isolate. Individuals were instructed to take their protein dose daily with water for six weeks and maintain their normal lifestyle habits. Participants reported to a research clinic weekly for blood pressure checks, blood draws, side effect measurement, and diet assessment. Results indicate a 11mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure and a 7mmHg drop in diastolic blood pressure in the treatment group versus the control group. Based on these findings, hydrolyzed whey protein isolate appears to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in untreated borderline hypertensives. Early indications suggest that these peptides might inhibit angiotension converting enzyme (ACE) and thereby lower blood pressure, however further research is needed to determine the mechanism of action and to confirm these findings. As in many small studies this one lacks the patient population and thus the statistical power to verify its claim, although initial results look promising. Source: Pins, Joel J. and Keenan, Joseph M., Antihypertensive Effects of a Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate Supplement (BioZate 1), Presented at the 11th International Congress on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy 2002.
Michael Abrahams, 4th year medical student |
