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What is Whey Protein?
10.05.2017Whey protein powder is considered the most widely used supplement in sports nutrition. Most commonly associated with strength, speed and power athletes, protein shakes are now used in endurance-based sports too. This is because protein has been shown through scientific studies and research to contribute to both the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.
But what’s even more interesting is how whey protein powder is becoming more mainstream. This is because more and more experts are recommending using them as part of a healthy diet. This is partly because years of research from the European Food and Safety Authority found that protein has many more benefits beyond a growth in muscle mass. In fact, protein has been found to contribute to the maintenance of normal bones. Just one reason why whey protein is no longer strictly used by athletes, but people pursuing a healthy diet too.
Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC)?
Whey is simply the liquid by-product you get when making cheese. Once you remove water and casein content from this by-product, you are left with whey protein concentrate.
Whey protein concentrate is possibly the world’s most popular sports supplement today. Whey protein concentrate is widely considered to be the most efficient and economical form of protein for the human body to digest and use. Whey protein concentrate is micro-filtered and not heat treated to produce ultra pure protein. This process ensures that the protein stays intact and as pure as it can be. It also means the powder to mix easily and achieve a smooth texture, giving you the perfect protein shake. Whey protein concentrate is rich in both BCAA’s and Glutamine. This makes it the ideal protein to help build muscle size, definition and aid recovery.
What Is Whey Protein Isolate (WPI)?
While whey protein concentrate has a protein content of around 80%, the protein content of whey protein isolate is more like 90%. This is because whey protein isolate undergoes a process called Cross-Flow Micro-filtration. This separates the protein from fat, cholesterol and lactose meaning a purer protein as the end product.
Whey protein isolate is believed to have less fat, cholesterol, lactose, carbohydrates and calories than most other proteins on the market. It is therefore a common choice for those looking to maintain low levels of body fat but who still require the protein to help their muscles repair and recover. Although whey protein concentrate is already considered low in lactose, whey protein isolate is considered even lower because of the additional manufacturing processes. Whey protein isolate is therefore often recommended for athletes who suffer from lactose intolerance.
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