Whey Concentrate vs. Whey Isolate

Hey Body Buds!

Do you hear a lot of talk about protein shakes?

Are they beneficial?

Should you be drinking them?

Yes! Here’s why:

*Helps to lose fat AND preserve muscle.

*When consumed you can have greater increases in fat-free muscle mass and muscle strength.

*Can help reduce hunger and snacking.

*Improves your Immune System

*Reduces Cancer Rates

*Reduces Stress

And those are just a few of the benefits. So your next question should be:

What is Whey Protein?

Milk is made of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey protein can be separated from the casein in milk or formed as a by-product of cheese-making. Whey protein is considered a complete protein, contains all 9 essential amino acids, and is low in lactose content. Whey protein is one of the best types of proteins you can consume for muscle building because it contains essential and branched-chain amino acids. By consuming whey protein before or after your workout, you can raise the amount of amino acids available in your body for the muscle growth process, also known as muscle protein synthesis. Because whey protein is available in different forms, including whey protein isolate, it is important that you understand the health benefits of each form and what type of whey protein is best for you.

What is the difference Conentrate and Isolate?

Whey protein concentrate (WPC) Has slightly lower protein- gram for gram (70%-80%), and contains higher levels of fat and lactose. Although concentrates may contain less protein on a gram for gram basis than an isolate, it does contain all sorts of compounds not found in isolates such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).

Whey protein isolate (WPI) is at least 90% protein with minimal lactose and virtually no fat after processing.

So, Which Type of Whey Should You Chose?

When choosing a whey protein, it is important to consider your goals, budget, and any allergies. For example, since whey concentrate contains significant amounts of lactose, anyone with lactose intolerance would want to choose something else.

Since isolates undergo more processing, they are more expensive and can lose many health-promoting compounds found in concentrates; however, they contain a higher amount of protein per serving. This becomes important for people who are calorie restricting and want to consume as much real, whole food as possible. While 5 grams of carbs (per serving of whey concentrate) may not seem like a lot, 2 shakes a day can easily equate to half an apple. (And who wouldn’t opt for the apple when in a caloric deficit? ;)) Whey isolates are more rapidly absorbed than concentrates and create a more profound insulin response, making whey isolates a great post-workout choice.

I hope this helps as you chose which protein to consume and when to be effective in doing so. Remember--It’s all about strategy and YOUR goals!

Your Bud,

Coach Lynette

#wheyprotein #protein #wheyisolate