Understanding Difference Between Whey Protein Isolate And Whey Protein Concentrate

Demands for sports supplements are quite high in the market. And in this regard, whey protein needs special mention. There are two kinds of whey proteins available in the market – whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Each kind has its unique qualities and pros and cons. One must be careful in choosing the right whey protein as per their body needs.

From where does whey come actually?

Whey protein – whether it is in isolated or concentrated form, comes from milk. There are two kinds of protein present in milk – casein and whey. It is possible to segregate whey from casein and this takes place when cheese is made by dairy producers. For manufacturing whey protein powder for supplements, the liquid is removed and filtered and whey protein is left behind. This protein is dried further. Whey protein powder contains large quantities of protein, some amount of carbohydrates in the form of lactose and little fat as well. The procedure of processing different kinds of whey powders varies from one another.

What is whey protein isolate?

Whey protein isolate is filtered more than whey protein concentrate. The amount of lactose and fats in the isolate formulation is lesser than that of the concentrate. However, the protein percentage is higher in the isolate and hence it is readily absorbed in the body when compared to that of the concentrate. Whey protein isolate contains almost 90% protein whereas concentrate contains about 80% protein. People who have issues with dairy products can easily consume the isolate variety because it is low on lactose content.

Whey proteins are bioavailable, which means that they are easily absorbed and used by the body. The product contains Branched-Chain Amino Acids and these help in minimizing muscle breakdown. Muscle growth is highly promoted with the use of whey protein isolate. The digestibility of this whey protein variety is also good and hence a favorite choice with people.

Working with whey protein isolate

Whey protein isolate is mainly used by athletes, sportspersons and even by regular people to build strength and stamina and lose unwanted body fat. The daily protein intake is supplemented with this kind of ingredient including whey protein isolate. People who are on a diet usually refrain from taking in traditional sources of protein. But for the protein requirements, they need to have some alternative source of protein – which can be in the form of whey protein. For bodybuilders and strength gainers, a protein source is required which gets into muscles within 30 minutes of finishing a workout session. Whey protein is the best source.

For optimum nutrition, the body needs nine essential amino acids. All these are not made in the body; hence supplements are needed to make them. Whey proteins contain these amino acids and stop the process of catabolism. Thus, the protein is used in synthesizing newly grown muscles.

Reasons why whey protein isolate is better than whey protein concentrate

There are many whey protein isolate manufacturers in the market. However, there are times when people are confused if they should have the isolate or the concentrated variety of whey protein. The isolate variant is high in protein content (90%) when compared to the concentrate variety (80%). Also, the rate of absorption of isolate in the body is way faster than that of the concentrate. After a hard workout and training session, the isolate variety proves to be better and more effective than the concentrate variety. Whey protein isolate is processed to a greater extent than the concentrate variety and is regarded as a ‘cleaner’ source of protein. The amount of fat and lactose is lower in isolate.

It is up to the requirement of the customer as to what variety of whey protein is needed and for what purpose. Seek the recommendation of a nutritionist in case you have doubts regarding your selection.