Emerging potential of whey proteins in prevention of cancer

The number of people being diagnosed with cancer is increasing rapidly worldwide. Cancer remains the greatest cause of death worldwide. Whey has attracted much attention in recent years as a natural source because of its significant applications to health benefits. Nowadays, whey is mostly utilised as an energy source for sports beverages and medicinal purposes in several nations. Whey components are becoming more popular among consumers for their nutraceutical properties, making them an appealing topic for cancer research which is a global public health issue. Researchers use whey protein in cancer prevention and therapy. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown whey protein consumption to elicit anti-cancer effects. Medical science now overwhelmingly favours whey protein's therapeutic significance, particularly in cancer cachexia treatment. Furthermore, whey protein supplementation is a viable, practicable, and cost-effective strategy for cancer cachexia syndrome treatment. This is particularly true considering whey protein's high leucine content and intrinsic capacity to alter IGF-I concentrations. More research is required to assess the usefulness of whey protein supplementation as an adjuvant in cancer therapy. Bearing in mind the nutraceutical significance of whey-derived proteins, this review paper highlights its emerging bioactive role to prevent cancer and improve human health.