Effect of casein and whey proteins on examination stress

Abstract

Objective: In this study we aimed to evaluate the effects of

casein and whey protein supplementation on examination

stress. We have investigated different parameters of oxidative

stress and immune function.

Materials and Methods: The participants were divided

into three groups: control, casein and whey. Casein and whey

groups were supplemented with either casein or whey protein

for 15 days. Blood samples were obtained at the beginning of

the study (Day 0), on the examination day (Day 16) and five

days after the examination (Day 21). Antioxidant capacity,

glutathione, cortisol and cytokine levels (TNF-a, IL-6, IL-12)

were measured.

Results: An increase in antioxidant capacity and glutathione

levels of the participants using whey protein was observed.

Whey protein supplementation did not affect cortisol levels, but

participants taking whey protein showed an increase in serum

TNF-a and IL-6 levels.

Conclusion: It is suggested that the use of whey protein

strengthens the response to oxidative stress by increasing

antioxidant capacity and glutathione levels, while supporting

the immune system via cytokine release.

Keywords

• Whey protein,Antioxidant capacity,Glutathione,Cortisol,Cytokine

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