Does Whey Protein Support Heart Health?

As people grow older, the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure increases. One major reason for this is vascular aging. This process involves the stiffening of blood vessels, which raises blood pressure and puts extra strain on the heart and brain. Over time, this can lead to hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.

Understanding Vascular Aging

Vascular aging refers to the gradual loss of flexibility in blood vessels. As arteries become less elastic, they are less able to absorb the force of each heartbeat. This not only increases blood pressure but also adds to the heart’s workload and affects blood flow to essential organs, including the brain. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of addressing arterial stiffness early to help prevent long-term complications.

Where Nutrition Fits In

Emerging research shows that nutrition can play a key role in supporting vascular health. Foods and supplements with functional benefits—often called nutraceuticals—are being studied for their potential to reduce cardiovascular risk. Among these, whey protein has gained attention for its possible role in improving arterial health.

Whey protein, a high-quality protein derived from milk, is commonly used to support muscle building. However, it also contains bioactive peptides that may help relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduce inflammation—all of which contribute to better vascular function.

What the Research Suggests

Several studies have found that whey protein may help reduce central blood pressure and improve arterial stiffness. One study, known as ANCHORS A-WHEY, found that older adults who consumed whey protein daily for 12 weeks showed modest but meaningful improvements in aortic stiffness and central blood pressure, compared to those who consumed carbohydrates.

While the same study did not find significant improvements in cognitive performance, researchers believe this may be because the brain’s blood supply system is less responsive to dietary changes in the short term.

Why It Matters

Even small improvements in vascular function can lead to meaningful reductions in cardiovascular risk over time. Lowering central blood pressure and improving arterial flexibility may help protect against heart attacks, strokes, and other age-related complications.

Although whey protein may not directly enhance brain function, its benefits for heart and vascular health make it a valuable option, especially for older adults.

Final Thoughts

Whey protein is more than just a post-workout supplement. For aging adults, it may serve as a practical and accessible tool to support heart health and manage vascular changes that come with age. While more research is needed to fully understand its potential—especially in relation to brain health—its positive effects on blood vessel function are becoming increasingly clear.

Study Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32290271/