Researchers found that rats fed whey protein concentrate showed increases in bone strength as well as such bone protein as collagen. Whey protein was found to stimulate total protein synthesis, DNA content, and increased hydroxyproline content of bone cells in a dose- dependent manner. It should be noted that not all whey protein concentrates are created equal. Processing whey protein to remove the lactose and fats, but without losing its biological activity, takes special care by the manufacturer. Maintaining the natural state of the protein is essential to its biological activity.
Whey protein has the highest biological value rating of any protein.
When the biological value is high, that means protein is absorbed, used, and retained better in the body. High biological values also are associated with tissue sparing. Thus, whey protein concentrate can be beneficial for people suffering from wasting catabolic diseases. This has been demonstrated in laboratory mice injected with endotoxin to produce catabolic response. By 72 hours after feeding them with linoleic acid, the mice presented body weights similar to controls.