Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate – Which is Better For You?
Whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate are produced via the process of filtration and purification of whey. Whey is a by-product generated during the production of cheese and is very high in terms of protein concentration levels. Filtering whey to remove the milk fat and sugar level gives rise to whey protein concentrate and further microfiltration results in production of whey protein isolate.
Comparing whey protein isolate vs concentrate it is found that the former has 90-95% of protein level while the latter has 70%-85% of protein level. Comparing whey protein isolate vs concentrate in terms of use, whey protein isolate is apt for people who are lactose intolerant as it has lower levels of milk sugar as compared to milk protein concentrate. Also, whey protein isolate is more expensive than whey protein concentrate. Hence in markets whey protein isolate is endorsed aggressively so that people are attracted to purchasing it.
Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate – Production
While whey protein concentrate is produced via simple filtration process, whey protein isolate is produced via ion exchange process. The latter process can lead to higher denaturing of protein subcomponents and requires the use of heat and chemicals which can alter the composition of immunity boosting components of whey as compared to the former process.
Comparing whey protein isolate vs concentrate in terms of advantage, isolate production results in the removal of immunity enhancing protein components like alpha lactoglobulin and lactoferrin, which aides the intestines in fighting against infection and food poisoning causing bacteria. Isolate also lacks in anabolic growth factors which are removed during the process of microfiltration. The milk fat has high calories nevertheless it is a storehouse of immunity boosting minerals like phospholipids some of which contain Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), which is said to be useful in fighting cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure condition, osteoporosis and also reduction of body fat! The milk fat which is removed in the isolate can generate bioactive like lactulose and lactobionic acid which help in the generation of minerals and antioxidants in the body.
Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate – Calorie Count
Comparing whey protein isolate vs concentrate in terms of calorie count, the former has definitely lower fat level due to diminished levels of milk fat. Hence isolate is a more suitable choice for people looking at their diet to reduce their calorie intake. However milk fat has its own advantages and cutting back on it can lead to weakened immunity of the body.
In the long run however consuming whey protein concentrate or whey protein isolate doesn’t have much effect on the process of muscle generation. Both have a high level of protein concentration for easy absorption in the body. Whey has a high biological value, which means it has a high amino acid ratio. This result in massive absorption and utilization of the protein consumed and hence leads to faster and greater muscle growth. For muscle growth a protein intake of about 20 grams to 25 grams is necessary and that can come from either whey protein isolate in whey protein concentrate, both of which are obtainable as a cheap whey protein powder.