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Protein Isolate vs. Protein Concentrate

Once a supplement used only by bodybuilders, whey protein is now recognized as a healthy addition to anyone's diet. With so many products available, it becomes a challenge to purchase the right kind for your needs. Whey protein isolate (WPI) and whey protein concentrate (WPC) possess slightly different characteristics that are important to know about.

  1. Why Whey?

    • To make whey protein, whey--a dairy product leftover in the cheese making process--is filtered and processed to form a powder that can be flavored and added to smoothies, oatmeal and other foods to enhance their protein content. Fitness enthusiasts have long known that whey protein is a high quality protein rich in arginine and lysine which stimulate the release of growth hormone thus enhancing muscle growth and development. Recent findings suggest that whey may help the body ward off toxins, bacteria and viruses, may protect against some cancers and can positively affect cardiovascular health. Endurance athletes appreciate that whey provides a high proportion of branched chain amino acids, providing energy during long exercise sessions.

    Isolate

    • Whey protein isolate is the purest version available. It contains more protein per serving with little fat and lactose. Data about various brands vary, but isolate usually contains 90 to 98 percent protein per serving. Highly filtering the whey to create the isolate version does remove some of the immune boosting properties. Isolate is also more expensive than concentrate.

    Concentrate

    • Production of whey concentrate is easier, and thus it relatively easy to find and less expensive. Depending on what brand you purchase, it can be anywhere from 29 to 89 percent protein per serving. However, because more of the impurities are retained in the production process, more of the immune enhancing elements are also retained.

    Which to Choose?

    • Both forms of whey protein help support muscle development. Manufacturers of both types of protein claim theirs is best, but it probably does not matter too much which you use. If you suffer from lactose intolerance, it probably makes sense to use the purer isolate form. To save money, purchase a well-respected brand of concentrate.

    Both

    • Some companies offer a mix of isolate and concentrate in the same product. A little more expensive than concentrate, but more affordable than isolate, you also get a lower fat and lactose option while still retaining some of the immune benefits of protein.

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