Whey Protein Isolate vs Concentrate: Choosing the Right One for You
Most people are aware of the benefits of adding clean protein to their diet, but once you start going down the nutritional rabbit hole, it's only natural that new questions emerge. If you're here, you're probably debating whether a whey protein concentrate or a whey protein isolate is right for you, and if that's the case, you're in the right place!
In this article you will learn:
- The difference between whey protein isolate and whey concentrate
- Whey protein isolate vs concentrate, which should you choose?
The Difference Between Whey Protein Isolate and Concentrate
The primary difference between whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate is in the protein content. By weight, whey protein isolate has a greater percentage of protein than does concentrate, but in order understand why this is, we have to put our manufacturing nerd hats on and dive into how both of these whey proteins are made.
How Organic Whey Protein Concentrate is Made
Whey protein is the liquid part of milk that separates from the curds during the cheesemaking process. It’s super high in protein and contains some fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, and minerals.
Whey concentrate is dried and processed into a powder that varies from about 30-80% protein. Natural Force Organic Grass Fed Whey is an 80% protein whey protein concentrate that is minimally processed to uphold the integrity of the amino acids and sourced from 100% USDA Organic, grass-fed, free-range cows. Each scoop of Natural Force Organic Grass Fed Whey contains a full 20 grams of protein rich in BCAAs and bioactive peptides.
How Organic Whey Protein Isolate is Made
Compared to whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate is filtered even further to remove almost all traces of lactose, fat, carbohydrates and cholesterol.
- Microfiltration removes curd particles and casein.
- Ultrafiltration removes any non-protein, low molecular weight particles.
- Nanofiltration concentrates the whey and removes any last remnants of lactose and salts.
- The powdering process removes remaining water, leaving pure powdered whey protein.
- The sifting process banishes clumps and makes the whey isolate perfect for mixing into liquids and smoothies.
- The final product is bagged, sealed, and shipped!
All whey protein isolates must contain at least 90% protein and naturally includes a higher concentration of branched chain amino acids than whey protein concentrate. Each scoop of Natural Force Organic Whey Protein Isolate contains 20 grams of pure protein, 4.5g BCAA, 0gms fat, and less than 1g of sugar.
Isolate vs Concentrate: Which Should You Choose?
Whey protein, in general, is famous for its super high protein content, digestibility, and neutral taste. Whether you’re an athlete or a smoothie lover, you likely know the importance of a clean protein source. But when it comes to choosing an isolate vs a concentrate form of whey protein, which should you chose?
If you’re looking to supplement your protein intake to aid in fat loss, muscle gain, or are just looking for a meal replacement, whey concentrate is an amazing place to start.
If you’re an athlete, are hitting it hard at the gym, whey protein isolate is perfect for huge gains and a faster recovery.
Regardless of which one you choose, however, simply adding whey protein to your diet will benefit you in a multitude of ways:
- Your body absorbs whey protein more quickly than other protein sources for an anabolic effect that supports fat loss and increases your muscle-to-fat ratio.
- BCAAs from whey protein help increase athletic performance, reduce fatigue, and keep your immune system strong, even when you’re pushing your body to the max.
- Amino acids in whey protein support your immune system and aid in recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing your body’s natural production of the master antioxidant glutathione.
- Protein doesn’t just keep you feeling full, it also helps balance blood sugar by reducing glucose, stimulating the release of insulin, and decreasing the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Are you a whey protein fan? Do you prefer isolate or concentrate? Share your story in the comments below and thanks for reading!
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