Can You Take Protease and Whey Protein Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

Protease supplements can prematurely break down whey protein in the digestive tract, altering the amino acid release profile and potentially reducing the anabolic response compared to intact whey protein.

How to arrange timing

Take whey protein at least 1 hour apart from protease supplements for optimal muscle protein synthesis.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Pennings B, et al. Whey protein stimulates postprandial muscle protein accretion. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011;93(5):997-1005.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.