InflamousJoin the Waitlist

processed

Whey Protein Shake

+0.3

Plain whey protein isolate supports muscle recovery with minimal inflammatory impact, though added sugars and artificial ingredients in many commercial formulas increase the score.

Ingredient score breakdown

Whey protein isolate

-0.6

Branched-chain amino acids support muscle synthesis and contain immunoglobulins with anti-inflammatory properties.

Added sweeteners

+0.5

Sugar or artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut microbiome balance and glucose regulation.

Artificial additives

+0.4

Thickeners, emulsifiers, and flavors can trigger mild inflammatory responses in sensitive individuals.

Lactose (if present)

0.0

Isolates contain minimal lactose, but concentrates may cause inflammation in lactose-intolerant individuals.

Why this score

This score is ingredient-based and weighted by DII-inspired evidence. Foods with added sugar, refined starches, and heavy processing trend higher; foods with fiber, omega-3, and polyphenols trend lower.

FODMAP note

Whey isolate is low FODMAP, but whey concentrate contains lactose and is high FODMAP. Check labels carefully.

Healthier alternatives

  • plant protein bar
  • greek yogurt

Related foods

Track this food in the app

Join the waitlist and get early access to ingredient-level inflammation scoring.