What is whey protein isolate and Its Benefits

Whey protein Isolate is a type of whey protein?

Whey in everyday foods can be traced back thousands of years, but it didn’t gain real attention as a supplement until the 1960s. That’s when athletes started to see its nutritional value for muscle support and recovery. Since then, the use of whey protein supplements has expanded to nutrition-conscious people from all walks of life. Thanks to advancements in science and technology, the process of producing whey protein products has evolved by leaps and bounds. Today, there are numerous options available, which can make choosing the right whey protein feel overwhelming. Don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand what whey protein isolate powders are, and why you might want to add them to your routine.

WHAT IS WHEY PROTEIN?

In short, whey protein is found in dairy. An average cup of cow’s milk is predominately made up of water, but also contains about 5% carbohydrates, 4% fat, and 3% protein. From that protein, 20% is whey and the remaining 80% is casein.

Since whey is a dairy protein, it can be found in varying amounts among dairy foods like milk, buttermilk, coffee creamers, yogurt, kefir, cheese, cottage cheese, and milk-based desserts like pudding.

Since whey is a dairy protein, it can be found in varying amounts among dairy foods like milk, buttermilk, coffee creamers, yogurt, kefir, cheese, cottage cheese, and milk-based desserts like pudding.

There are 3 types of whey proteins-

1. Whey Protein Isolate (WPI)
2. Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC)
3. Whey Protein hydrolysate (WPH)

What is Whey Protein Isolate & how is it different from other types of why?

Remember, milk protein naturally contains carbohydrates and fat. Therefore, the main difference you’ll see between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate are the levels of macronutrients. In other words, the isolate filtration process removes some of the carbs and fat, and results in a higher ratio of protein.

• Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) contains higher levels of carbohydrates and fat, because those nutrients have not been filtered out. It contains up to 80% protein by dry weight.
• Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) contains lower levels of carbohydrates and fat because they are filtered out to isolate the protein. It contains up to 90% protein by dry weight.
• Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) contains lower levels of carbohydrates and fat because they are filtered out to isolate the protein. It contains up to 90% protein by dry weight.

Both WPC and WPI are high-quality, complete proteins that naturally contain all nine of the essential amino acids – including the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Also, both types digest and absorb at similar rates. Additionally, both types are considered fast-digesting proteins compared to casein.

Whey Protein Hydrolysate is a broken down form of whey protein which is quick absorbing

THE BENEFITS OF WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE

If you’re wondering why you might choose Whey Protein Isolate over any other type of proteins, here are some points to consider-

If you want to control your intake of carbohydrates and fats, Whey Protein Isolate is a good choice due to its low carbs and fat content. It’s suitable for many diet types including weight management, keto, and intermittent fasting.

Like other complete proteins, it helps support muscle building when taken over time with regular resistance training, muscle recovery, and helps meet daily protein needs. Plus whey Protein Isolate typically tends to have higher protein percentage so you get more worth of your money.

If you want to control your intake of carbohydrates and fats, Whey Protein Isolate is a good choice due to its low carbs and fat content. It’s suitable for many diet types including weight management, keto, and intermittent fasting.

During filtration process much of carbohydrates and fats are removed which removes the sweetness and dairy notes from WPI. If you want a versatile protein but don’t like drinks with a creamy, milkshake like consistency or flavour, WPI may appeal to your tastes.

Lactose is a type of sugar naturally present in the milk that gives it the sweetness. Some people are allergic to lactose, and this allergy might range from sensitivity to downright intolerance (more severe reaction). In the process of filtration much of the lactose is removed so typically whey protein isolates tend to be very low in lactose and are a more suitable option for people allergic to lactose. However, in case of any food allergy it is always advised to consult with your doctor regarding whether a certain supplement is right for you.

Take Home Message

Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality complete dairy protein with all 9 essential amino acids. With its high protein percentage and low carbs, fats, lactose etc it is a very apt choice for people who want MORE of only protein and LESS or everything else! It is a great muscle recovery support for athletic and active men and women alike. It is a dairy protein so anyone who is allergic to milk or milk products must consult with their doctor before trying it.