Whether you plan to use whey protein to complement your workouts, to help you lose weight or to provide health benefits, you'll want the best quality possible. With the array of whey protein products on the market, it can be hard to choose the right one for you. You may notice that some brands contain whey protein isolate or whey protein concentrate, while others contain a combination of the two. Understanding the difference between concentrate and isolate can help you determine which to choose to best meet your needs.
Description and Benefits
Whey protein is a derivative of the cheese making process. The curd, or protein known as casein, is separated out and used for cheese while the remaining portion of the milk -- the whey -- is filtered and dried to form a powder. Whey protein isolate is the more refined, purer version of this powder. Both types of whey protein contain the amino acids arginine, lysine and the branched chain amino acids luecine, isoluecine and valine, which promote muscle growth and recovery. The protein in whey can help dieters feel full and, thus, enhance weight loss. Whey protein may also offer protection against cancer and boost immunity.
Protein
Whey protein isolate is at least 90 percent protein, while concentrate is between 29 and 89 percent protein, depending on the brand. Isolate's higher concentration of protein may offer slightly greater muscle-building benefits and more amino acids. Both types of protein are easily digested by the body and readily available to muscles.
Fat and Lactose
People who cannot tolerate the sugar found in dairy products may be able to consume whey protein isolate, notes the National Dairy Council. During processing, almost all the fat and lactose is removed from whey protein isolate. Although still low in fat and lactose, whey protein concentrate may adversely affect severely lactose intolerant people.
Considerations
Whey protein isolate tends to be more expensive that whey protein concentrate. Pure whey protein isolate powders usually cost more than concentrates or blends. It is unclear as to whether the benefits from pure isolate justifies this higher cost. When isolate is filtered, some of the immune-boosting properties are removed. Many brands feature a blend of whey isolate and whey concentrate in one product. These brands are often less expensive than pure isolate, while still offering many of the benefits of 100 percent isolate.
Caution
Some manufacturers add additional supplements, carbohydrates and artificial sweeteners to whey protein concentrate. Many of these products contain more fat and calories than 100 percent whey. Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so you cannot be sure of their safety.
Member Comments