The bioavailability of a particular protein is a measure of how well it is absorbed by the body. As you might expect, it's more desirable to consume a protein that is superior to others in terms of digestibility and absorption. Whey protein absorbs better than any other protein, according to the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center. The best-absorbing whey protein is whey protein isolate. Check with your doctor before trying whey protein supplements to be sure it's right for you.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey protein isolate, or WPI, offers the highest concentration of protein per gram compared to other types of whey protein. It offers at least 90 percent by weight, according to McKinley Health Center. Whey protein concentrate, or WPC, is a more economical type of whey protein that offers 29 to 89 percent total protein by weight. Since WPI is superior when it comes to absorption, it is better choice when it comes to getting muscle-building amino acids delivered straight to the muscle tissue.
Bioavailability
The bioavailability, or BA, of WPI ranges from 100 to 159 on the BA index. Higher quality whey protein isolate blends feature higher BA scores, although these are often more expensive. To compare the BA of whey protein isolate with other proteins, soy has a BA of 59 and casein has a BA of 77. WPC formulas can have a maximum BA of 104, according to Bodybuilding.com. The BA of a protein is also referred to as its biological value, or BV.
Dosage
When it comes to protein supplementation, more is not necessarily better. In fact, too much protein can lead to increased body fat and potential strain on your kidneys and liver. McKinley Health Center suggests consuming 20 to 25 g of whey supplements per day for general improvements in body composition and preservation of existing lean tissue. You may consume this amount immediately following your daily workout, or split it into a morning dose and a post-workout dose.
Safety
McKinley Health Center states whey protein supplements are generally safe to consume in moderation. However, if you suffer from renal disease, kidney stones or liver disease, your doctor may suggest you limit your protein intake. If you have severe allergies to milk, you may experience allergic reactions to WPI since it is derived from milk. Consult your doctor prior to staring a whey protein isolate regimen to make sure it's a safe and smart choice for you.
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