WHEY PROTEIN

Any serious athlete knows that it is virtually impossible to achieve major muscle gains without high-quality protein supplementation. The harder an athlete trains, the more important dietary protein becomes for maximizing muscle repair and maintenance of muscle building processes. Protein also plays a vital role in hormone and enzyme production, and maintaining the immune system. 

Whey concentrates and isolates are rightfully the protein supplements of choice among modern athletes, and rightfully so, as whey protein is one of the best proteins for muscle building, boasting a far higher biological value (BV) and a higher PER (protein efficiency ratio) than any whole food proteins.  

But what is the best whey protein supplement, especially when considering long-term health? 

Whey protein isolate provides the highest percentage of pure protein (90%-96%) at the lowest calorie content due to the elimination of lactose and fats. However, the isolate manufacturing process depletes some of the valuable health-promoting components of whey. 

High-quality whey concentrate usually supplies about 80% protein, with minor amounts of fat and lactose still present. Whey concentrate also includes a variety of health-beneficial components, including certain growth factors, healthful lipids (CLA) and phospholipids, plus lactoferrin and immunoglobulins, which improve immunity.

Each type of whey has it own distinct advantages and both can be safely considered as true health foods. The most vital issue for any health-conscious athlete is not whether to choose whey concentrate or whey isolate for protein supplementation, but rather to select the purest, most unadulterated, unflavored high-quality whey protein powder. For those that require flavor enhancement, blending in a bit of fresh fruit is a quick, simple, and healthy option. 

NGA Education Director for SEA