Whey protein and mood swings?

[Mahendra]

Coach,

What are your thoughts on whey protein causing mood swings? Someone saw me drinking a shake one day and said, "I heard that whey protein causes mood swings". I never heard that before and tried searching but couldn't find any credible sources.

Personally, I incorporate whey pretty much every day and I haven't experienced any mood swings or side effects other than gainzZz.

Thank you!

~ Mahendra

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

Never heard of a negative effect from whey. There is some data out there suggesting that whey can improve serotonin function and cognitive performance in stress-vulnerable subjects, however (see here). Remember, serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters targeted by SSRI's and other pharmaceuticals used to treat mood disorders currently. I am not suggesting whey is as good as an anti-depressant or that it is an anti-depressant....though creatine on the other hand....

[vanslix]

Never heard of a negative effect from whey. There is some data out there suggesting that whey can improve serotonin function and cognitive performance in stress-vulnerable subjects, however (see here). Remember, serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters targeted by SSRI's and other pharmaceuticals used to treat mood disorders currently. I am not suggesting whey is as good as an anti-depressant or that it is an anti-depressant....though creatine on the other hand....

And regular lifting on the other hand make for good treatment for mild to moderate depression. Severe is a different beast entirely.

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

And regular lifting on the other hand make for good treatment for mild to moderate depression. Severe is a different beast entirely.

Agreed.