Whey Protein Isolate (WPI)

Overview

Whey protein is the most popular supplement in the world but many people still don’t understand the difference between whey protein isolate (WPI) and whey protein concentrate (WPC). Whey protein isolate is the gold standard of protein powder supplements as it is the highest protein, it is rapidly absorbed, is full of amino acids and comes in a range of delicious flavours. Whey protein isolate is great for muscle building, weight management and is a perfect part of any healthy diet.

Why is protein even important in the first place? Well, protein is crucial if you want to maximise lean muscle growth or achieve weight loss. Everybody should be aiming to consume a protein source with a diverse amino acid profile. Not everyone is able to consume protein in a natural form like meat or eggs all the time, but this should not keep you from meeting your protein requirements. Whey protein isolate is a convenient protein source which has a good taste, making it a perfect choice!

There a a few key differences between these two types of product which make each more suited to some individuals and less suited to others. If you are looking for a great whey protein isolate because you are wanting to build/maintain muscle tissue and maximise recovery, read this blog!

What is Whey Protein Isolate?

Whey protein isolate is the purest form of all protein supplements on the market. All types of whey use protein derived from milk, however the process for making whey protein isolate is slightly different. Whey protein isolate powder goes through an extra step in the manufacturing process which is an ultra filtration process. Here, as much lactose is removed as possible, leaving almost a pure protein source. This leaves the WPI protein powders absolutely packed with essential amino acids and branched chain amino acids whilst having little to no carbohydrates and fats as well as almost no lactose.

Whey protein isolate is known as a complete protein because it has a complete amino acid profile. This means that taking whey protein supplements is ideal for building muscle mass when combined with appropriate physical training. Due to the facts that whey protein isolate contains only trace amounts of carbohydrates and fats, whey protein isolate is also great to use during weight loss periods. High quality protein sources which contain minimal fats are a great part of any nutritious diet.

Whey protein isolate is so pure that sometimes a lactose intolerant person can even manage to have a whey isolate protein supplement without getting any symptoms. Whey proteins are a convenient way to increase your protein intake so you can see why this is a game changer for many people. If you are lactose intolerant and you cannot find any plant-based proteins that you like, you may be able to tolerate some WPIs depending on your sensitivity (any changes to your diet should be done so under medical or dietetic supervision).

It is important for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult a medical professional before choosing to use supplements.

How is a WPI Different from Whey Protein Concentrate?

Calories

If you look at the nutritional information of a WPI and a WPC, you will notice some differences. Whey protein isolate contains less calories than WPC because any excess fat and carbs are taken out in the process of making WPI. Whey protein isolate also contains more protein per serve than a WPC as it is the highest content of any whey protein powder. On the other hand, both WPI and WPC are rich with essential amino acids and can help you build lean muscle. WPI is super low in things like dietary fibre, artificial ingredients and other nasties! If you want to lose weight and are looking to save as many calories as possible, whey isolate is a better choice!

Protein Content

The average whey protein concentrate will have 22-25g of protein per serve whereas whey isolate will often contain around 30g of protein per serve. Protein supplementation is all about helping the body recover from hard exercise to promote muscle growth. If you are wanting to pack as much protein into your protein shake as possible, a whey protein isolate is the best choice!

Texture

Not all whey protein mix up in the same way! You will notice quite a big difference between the texture of WPI powder and WPC powder once mixed up. Due to the fact that WPC contains more lactose, it is generally thicker and crazier once mixed up. Whey protein isolate on the other hand is much thinner and more watery once prepared because it is a finer powder. Whey protein isolate is therefore generally better for people with mild lactose intolerance or sensitive stomachs. This is a key difference between these proteins!

Protein shakes have never tasted so good with flavours like dairy milk chocolate, salted caramel, chocolate peanut butter and many more!

Our Top 5 WPI Protein Powder

Rule 1 Protein

This protein is one of the tastiest around, with incredible flavours like Pavlova Cake, Fruity Cereal and Chocolate Malt! The nutritional content is also pretty tasty! This protein is super low in carbohydrates and fats whilst packing a huge serve of protein in every serve. Rule 1 Protein is available in a range of sizes too and can suit any budget. This product is perfect for anyone looking to gain muscle. This is because protein is great for building lean mass when combined with an effective exercise program. The Rule 1 containers look quite similar but if you are wanting the WPI, make sure you buy the RED tub, not the BLUE!

JD Nutraceuticals 100% WPI

This whey protein isolate has some of the most astounding nutritional information on the market! JDN’s WPI contains less than a gram of carbs or fats and boasts a massive 30g of protein in each serve. With nutritional information like that, you may not expect a great tasting product but that is where you are wrong! JDN has awesome flavours like Caramel Slice, Choc Popcorn, White Chocolate Raspberry and many more!

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Isolate

This brand needs no introduction and it should come as no surprise that their whey protein isolate is one of the highest quality in the world. Each scoop of this protein is going to be packed with essential amino acids and be almost free from carbs, fats and lactose. Take your pick from incredible flavours like Chocolate Bliss, Caramel Ice Cream, Vanilla Dream and Mint Brownie!

Axe & Sledge Farm Fed

Seth Feroce’s brand has built a sparkling reputation since its conception and their whey protein isolate is one of their most popular products! This product has been boosted with natural flavouring ingredients and digestive enzymes to ensure you are able to extract all the nutrients! Farm Fed comes in a total of nine different flavours, including Glazed Donut and S’mores which are two of the most popular!

Alien Protein

Alien are a fantastic Australian brand which boast a full catalogue of supplements however it is their whey protein isolate that really draws people in. Alien WPI comes in three different flavours, Vanilla Peanut, Chocolate Malt and Vanilla Ice Cream. A tub of this great protein will give you 28 serves of high-quality WPI, each of which is low in carbs and fats. If your current protein is not quite doing it for you, Alien protein is here to help.

Mix 1 scoop of WPI with 300-400ml of cold water or milk depending on your preference and consume any time during the day. Whey protein isolate is an extremely versatile product, so if you are looking to change things up, add a scoop into a smoothie, pour the shake over a bowl of cereal or mix into a bowl of warm oats for creamy, protein-packed goodness. Many people will also use this powder in baking in order to make healthy pancakes, muffins, cakes, or snack balls.

Summary

As you can see, a standard WPI is much more than meets the eye. If you are looking for a product that suits you perfectly, there are a few considerations. Find a product that will sit well in your stomach and not cause any digestive distress. If you want to save as many calories as possible, a WPI is great because they are as low as it comes in terms of fats and carbs. It is also important to consider if you are wanting something with natural flavouring or does your stomach tolerate artificial sweeteners.

There is no better place to look when it comes to finding a great WPI. Power Supps boasts a huge range of brands, each of which have a host of flavour options. With all of these options, you can almost guarantee that anyone will be able to find a WPI to suit their goals, budget and flavour preference. Shop at Power Supps today and find the perfect WPI for you!