The Many Sides of Whey Protein
The Many Sides of Whey Protein
You may have noticed when shopping around for protein powders that there are a LOT to choose from. So let’s talk Whey. Whey protein has been singled out as the ultimate source of protein because of its excellent amino acid profile and digestibility. It can be found in several forms including WHEY PROTEIN POWDER, ISOLATE, CONCENTRATE and HYDROLYSATES. So what’s the difference and which should you choose to compliment your nutrition and training goals?
The Differences Explained:
The many forms whey takes on are the result of various processing techniques used to separate the protein. The primary difference between whey protein and its isolate form is the amount of protein, lactose and fat present.
Powder-anywhere from 11 to 14.5 percent protein, 63 to 75 percent lactose and 1 to 1.5 percent milk fat
Isolate-over 90% protein, contains roughly 0.5 percent of lactose and milk fat (because of the removal of fat and lactose during processing). Isolates are the purest protein source available. If you have an intolerance to lactose this would be the whey protein for you. Now don’t get us wrong, the isolate form does have it’s flaws including the fact that it often contain proteins that have become denatured due to the manufacturing process (those proteins being less effective) and it tends to be more expensive.
Concentrate-less processed, has a higher carbohydrate content but is lower in protein (29-89%). Compared to whey isolates, it typically contains more biologically active components and proteins.
Hydrolysates-whey proteins that are pre-digested and partially hydrolized for the purpose of easier metabolizing and they are virtually free of any potential allergens. This is the most expensive form of whey protein. Although this form provides maximum protein absorption, whey protein is generally easily absorbed by our bodies.
The Studies:
Studies have shown that subjects who incorporate protein supplementation into their diet saw significantly greater gains in protein synthesis and body mass due to this greater protein intake. So no matter which whey protein you choose, you will surely reap the benefits!
More information about Whey Protein below:
http://www.jssm.org/vol3/n3/2/v3n3-2pdf.pdf
http://www.livestrong.com/article/443290-whey-protein-vs-whey-isolate/#ixzz2QjnedXLZ
