Potential prebiotic properties of whey protein and glycomacropeptide in gut microbiome
This study underscores the potential of whey protein and glycomacropeptide (GMP) as natural components that can benefit gut health through their prebiotic and antimicrobial properties. Their application in dietary supplements and functional foods could offer a natural approach to enhancing gut microbiota composition and addressing gastrointestinal health issues.
College of Health researcher(s)
College unit(s)
Abstract
Proteins in whey have prebiotic and antimicrobial properties. Whey protein comprises numerous bioactive proteins and peptides, including glycomacropeptide (GMP), a hydrophilic casein peptide that separates with the whey fraction during cheese making. GMP has traditionally been used as a protein source for individuals with phenylketonuria and also has prebiotic (supporting the growth of Bifidobacterium and lactic acid bacteria) and antimicrobial activities. GMP supplementation may help positively modulate the gut microbiome, help treat dysbiosis-related gastrointestinal disorders and improve overall health in consumers.