Various concentrated forms of whey protein preparations are available on the market, such as concentrate and isolate, which may also contain protein in a hydrolyzed form. These supplements are not as tightly regulated as drugs, and while there are guidelines to ensure their safety, companies don't always follow them. As part of the master's thesis, we analyzed 70 different products with whey protein powder, which are available in online stores in Slovenia. We have presented studies of the effects and safety of the ingredients and their doses. First, we checked how much protein is in an average single serving of these products: most fall into the category of containing 20-24.9g of protein per serving. The most common type of whey protein in products is concentrate. In addition to whey, we also found other sources of protein, with casein being the most frequently present. For the purported health benefits of selected supplements, we have found that they can vary greatly depending on the manufacture, composition and use of the products. Excessive consumption of protein supplements is not recommended because it limits the intake of a varied healthy diet and can affect the health of the kidneys, bones and gastrointestinal tract. Additional substances that are advertised on the packaging of products as useful for increasing muscle mass or reducing fat mass and improving physical performance and recovery after exercise have been divided into amino acids or sources of these and others. The most common were L-glutamine, creatine monohydrate and branched-chain amino acids. These are safe when used as recommended, but not all have been shown to be added in products in doses that provide the advertised effects. We also reviewed additives and focused on sweeteners, the most common being sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and steviol glycosides, and coloring agents, the most common being betalain, beta-carotene, and curcumin. Under normal conditions of use, these are not carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic or toxic to the reproductive system, but may cause hypersensitivity reactions. When using the selected products, allergy sufferers and people with metabolic disorders or kidney and liver disorders should be especially careful.
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