Whey Protein Isolate - The Purest Form of Protein

Written By: Brandon Davies

Published on: March 30, 2023

Expert Review By:

Fact Checked

READ MORE

Expert Recommended

READ MORE

This Guide Seeks to Answer: 

• What whey protein isolate is and how it differs from other whey protein powder types
• How whey protein isolate is made
• How you can benefit from whey protein isolate
• How you can use whey protein isolate

Whey protein isolate is the purest type of whey protein. It is obtained when the fat and lactose content in whey (the watery portion of milk) is reduced, giving it a higher protein content than whey hydrolysates and whey concentrates. Its super-low lactose content makes it the best choice for people struggling with lactose intolerance. 

Importance of Protein in a Healthy Diet 

A diet can only be healthy if it has protein. Eating foods rich in protein, such as whey protein isolate, supplies the body with histidine, tryptophan, methionine, isoleucine, lysine, leucine, methionine, threonine, valine, and phenylalanine, which are all the amino acids it can't produce. Protein also significantly coordinates bodily functions, builds and repairs tissues, and supports metabolic reactions through enzyme and hormone synthesis. 

3 Best Whey Protein Isolate Products for 2023

Before we look at the best whey protein isolate products in the market, remember to shop from quality supplement sellers such as RIPPED which provides only the best health supplements and drinks after considering their ingredients, potency, flavors and certificates. You also get good deals and an even better shipping policy.  With that said, here are some of the best whey protein isolates you can use to boost your protein intake: 

• Modern Iso: The Better Whey Protein Isolate Pina Colada

Modern Iso: The Better Whey Protein Isolate Pina Colada has a refreshing fruit flavor, which makes it easy to ingest. Its 20 servings, each offering 20g of protein per scoop, can improve your workout performance by promoting muscle growth and recovery. 

• Animal Muscle Food Isolate Loaded Whey Protein Powder

Animal Muscle Food Isolate Loaded Whey Protein Powder offers 25g of protein per scoop. It is packed with digestive enzymes and mixes easily with liquid bases for easier and faster intake by bodybuilders. It comes in flavors like strawberry,  vanilla, chocolate, and salted caramel. 

• Redcon 1: Isotope 100% Whey Isolate

The Redcon 1: Isotope 100% Whey Isolate Chocolate is an excellent option that can be used as a post-workout supplement or an everyday protein source. It is easy to digest and has a smooth, delicious taste. Additionally, it offers 25g of protein per scoop. 

What is Whey Protein Isolate? 

Whey protein isolate is the most concentrated type of whey protein. It has a 90%+ protein content and a lower amount of lactose and fat, which are relatively dominant in other kinds of whey proteins, such as whey concentrate. 

Production Process of Whey Protein Isolate 

Whey protein isolate comes from whey, a by-product of cheese manufacturing. To form cheese, a cow's milk is exposed to enzymes such as chymosin to alter casein's micelle structure, giving rise to liquid whey and solid curds. The solid curds are then removed and used to make cheese, while the liquid is pasteurized to kill bacteria and then dried to make whey powder. The powder is then subjected to intense processing and filtration that eliminates most lactose and fat, leaving behind a product with a higher protein concentration known as whey protein isolate. 

Why Whey Protein Isolate is Better Than Other Forms

Whey protein isolate stands out amongst other forms of whey powder due to its purity - boasting a higher concentration of essential proteins and reduced levels of carbohydrates, lactose and fat. The advanced processing techniques used makes it easier to digest while being ideal for those with lactose intolerance or trying to lower their daily caloric intake from fat sources.

Whey Protein Concentrate vs. Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein isolate has a higher protein concentration than whey protein concentrate, a common type of whey protein used in infant formulas and protein bars. A 100-calorie serving of whey isolate offers 23 grams of protein compared to whey concentrate's 18g. On the other hand, whey protein concentrate has more carbs, fat, and lactose content as it is less processed. It is, therefore, not a viable option for the lactose intolerant. 

Additionally, the significant difference in protein content between these two types of whey protein makes isolates costlier than concentrates. 

Whey Protein Hydrolysate vs. Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein hydrolysate or hydrolyzed whey protein forms when whey protein is exposed to enzymes, acids, and heat, breaking down the bonds holding the amino acids together. It digests faster than whey protein isolate and is often referred to as 'pre-digested' whey protein. However, exposure to heat, enzymes, and acid rids hydrolyzed whey of all fats and lactose, unlike whey isolate, which retains micro fractions of these nutrients. Whey protein isolate ,therefore, has more nutrients than whey protein hydrolysate.

Benefits of Whey Protein Isolate 

Here are the five main benefits of whey protein isolate: 

#1 Muscle Building and Recovery - Whey protein isolate is a rich source of protein. Studies show that consuming high-protein foods or supplements can slow down muscle loss when combined with weight training, making muscle building easier. Whey protein isolate is also rich in leucine, a branched-chain amino acid that promotes protein synthesis.  

As for recovery, research has proven that whey protein supplements such as whey protein isolate can increase protein synthesis and reduce muscle damage. 

#2 Weight Management - Protein has a more satiating effect compared to carbs and fats. Whey protein isolate can make you feel full for longer due to its high protein concentration, helping you suppress your cravings and eating desires. Eating more protein can also make the body burn more calories by boosting metabolism and helping maintain muscle mass. 

#3 Immune Support System - Studies show that dietary whey protein supplementation can help boost the body's immune system by increasing the production of immunoglobulin G. This helps fight off disease-causing germs, keeping you healthy and in the best condition. 

#4 Blood Sugar Regulation - It has been proven that whey protein can moderate blood sugar, increase insulin levels and enhance the body's sensitivity to insulin's effects.  As a rich whey protein source, whey protein isolate can promote the absorption of blood sugar into the body's cells if consumed, which comes in handy for type 2 diabetes treatment or management. Healthy people can also benefit from whey protein isolate's ability to moderate blood sugar levels by taking it alongside high-carb meals. 

#5 Digestion - Whey protein isolate can be easily and quickly broken down into peptides and later into amino acids, supplying the body with all the essential nutrients it needs to function correctly in a relatively shorter duration. Studies also show that the gut can absorb whey protein faster than other protein types thanks to its high digestibility levels. 

Whey Protein Isolate and Workout 

How Whey Protein Isolate Can Enhance Workout Performance 

Whey protein isolate can enhance workout performance by improving muscle recovery time, increasing muscle mass, and enhancing endurance when used as a pre-workout or post-workout supplement. 

• Improving Muscle Recovery Time - Whey protein supplementation can help your muscles recover faster after a grueling workout thanks to the high concentration of branched-chain amino acids such as leucine. Leucine reduces muscle breakdown and increases protein synthesis after an exercise, getting you back on your feet in no time. 
• Increasing Muscle Mass - Whey protein isolate can help you bulk without elevating your fat mass levels by increasing muscle mass. This results from the branched-chain amino acids that increase protein muscle synthesis when combined with resistance training. However, for such an occurrence to happen, you must observe the correct dosage and timing, which we will look at during our discussion. 
• Enhancing Endurance - Whey protein isolate enhances endurance by reducing muscle damage and improving muscle recovery after a workout session. 

How to Properly Use Whey Protein Isolate as a Pre-workout Supplement

Whey protein isolate can be taken before a workout session for increased strength and better athletic performance. However, it's crucial to get the dosage and timing right for the best results. 

• Timing of Consumption - As a pre-workout supplement, whey protein isolate should be taken 15-20 minutes before your workout. 
• Dosage Recommendations - One scoop of whey protein isolate should give you enough strength for a successful workout. Research shows that taking just 25g of whey protein before exercise can enhance the entire body's metabolism.

Building Muscle With Whey Protein Isolate 

Whey protein isolate is a rich source of protein, a macronutrient known for its muscle-building properties thanks to branched-chain amino acids such as leucine. When whey protein isolate intake is combined with resistance training, it becomes easier to build muscles. In fact, a few studies have shown that whey protein has a far, much more significant effect on muscle growth compared to other protein sources such as soy. 

How Whey Protein Isolate Can Support Muscle Growth

Whey protein isolate supports muscle growth in the following three ways:

• Increasing Muscle Protein Synthesis - Consumption of whey protein isolate has a potent anabolic effect as it increases plasma and intramuscular leucine. Leucine is a branched-chain amino acid that directly and indirectly promotes protein synthesis through mTOR. 
• Providing Essential Amino Acids - Amino acids are divided into essential, non-essential, and conditional. Non-essential amino acids can be made by the body and are not necessary for our diets, while essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and must therefore be obtained from dietary protein. Whey protein isolate, a rich source of whey protein, has all the essential amino acids, i.e., isoleucine, lysine, leucine, tyrosine, cysteine, threonine, valine, histidine, and tryptophan. 
• Enhancing Muscle Recovery - Consuming whey protein isolate after a workout session enhances muscle recovery by reducing muscle damage and increasing protein synthesis. 

Best Practices for Using Whey Protein Isolate for Muscle Building

• Combining with Resistance Training Whey protein isolate should be combined with resistance training for increased strength, muscle hypertrophy, recovery, lean body mass, and physical performance. Pre-workout consumption stimulates a positive net protein balance, while post-workout intake has a potential anabolic response. 
• Recommended Dosage and Timing 1-2 scoops of whey protein isolate (25 - 50g) should be sufficient for muscle building. On timing, whey protein isolate can be used before or after an exercise session. It offers more strength and endurance when used as a pre-workout and speedy muscle recovery when used as a post-workout. 
• Having a Balanced Diet  - Remember to have a balanced diet to obtain the other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals and not purely dwell on the protein content in the whey protein isolate. Remember, without the proper nutrition, powerlifting and strength training can cause adverse effects instead of benefitting your body, such as muscle tissue loss. 

Losing Weight With Whey Protein Isolate 

Whey protein isolate is a rich source of protein, a macronutrient that can help in weight loss and overall loss management. 

How Whey Protein Isolate Can Support Weight Loss

• Suppressing Appetite - suppressing appetite, whey protein isolate reduces the body's daily calorie intake and promotes fat loss. A suppressed appetite also reduces cravings and late-night snacking, some of the familiar sources of additional calories. 
• Preserving Muscle Mass - Whey protein isolate is a rich source of amino acids. Consumption increases plasma amino acids that help preserve muscle mass. 
• Enhancing  Metabolism - Whey protein isolate consumption increases protein intake, leading to a rise in a nutrient capable of making the body burn more calories for improved weight loss by increasing metabolism. This assertion is backed by a study that proved that a high-protein and carbohydrate-free diet promotes energy expenditure. 

Best Practices for Using Whey Protein Isolate for Weight Loss

• Combining With Regular Exercise - We burn more calories during exercise in response to our body's high energy demand. Consuming whey protein isolate before working out supplies us with the strength and endurance needed for a more extended workout session, allowing us to burn even more calories. 
• Incorporating a Calorie-deficit Diet - Consuming a calorie-deficit diet forces the body to turn into its fat reserves to produce more energy, which promotes fat loss. Consuming whey protein isolate increases satiety levels, making it easier to withstand a calorie-deficit diet. 
• Ensuring Proper Nutrition - Using whey protein isolate for weight loss does not mean you should ignore taking other nutrients. You still have to consume foods rich in vitamins, healthy carbs, fiber, and other nutrients, which calls for a balanced diet. 

Whey Protein Isolate and Athletic Performance 

Whey protein enhances athletic performance by: 

• Building muscle mass - Whey protein isolate consumption can potentially increase lean body mass, positively impacting an athlete's strength and power development. 
• Enhancing endurance - Working on our endurance increases our stamina, allowing us to withstand longer workout routines and achieve better athletic performance. Long-term benefits include better health, increased strength, and weight loss. 
• Improving Muscle Recovery - Whey protein isolate consumption enhances faster muscle recovery, which increases blood circulation. Increased blood circulation allows the body to quickly eliminate the waste products accumulated from soft-tissue breakdown during intense exercise. 

Best Practices for Using Whey Protein Isolate for Athletes

• Timing of Consumption - Athletes should take whey protein isolate within two hours after training for improved recovery and muscle mass-building.
• Dosage Recommendations - You can try 1-2 scoops of whey protein isolate before or after training. 
• Overall Diet and Nutrition - Make sure you take a balanced diet on top of your whey protein isolate supplements for maximum athletic performance. Nutrients such as Vitamin D, Iron, and Zinc have been found to improve fitness performance and must therefore be included in your diet. 

Whey Protein And Quick Absorption

Whey protein isolate i is easily digested, supporting the immune system, and enhancing the absorption of nutrients. 

How Whey Protein Improves Health 

• Improving Digestion - As a rich source of whey protein, whey protein isolate helps in digestion and overall health by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, and inhibiting the growth of dangerous bacteria, such as Stenotrophomonas in the body. 
• Boosting the Immune System - Whey protein isolate is a rich source of cysteine and methionine, amino acids promoting glutathione's intracellular conversion. Glutathione is an antioxidant that protects the cells against free radicals, thus improving the body's immune system. 
• Enhancing Absorption of Nutrients - Whey protein isolate can be referred to as a 'fast-acting protein' given its fast absorption ability.  It can be rapidly absorbed in the body at an estimated rate of 10g per hour, making it a quick source of essential amino acids required for proper body functioning. 

Best Practices for Using Whey Protein Isolate for Good Health 

• Choosing a High-Quality, Easily-Digestible Product - There are several whey protein isolate products to choose from. Ensure that you check the quality and digestibility of your options before deciding on one. Go for a whey protein isolate with digestive enzymes or a digestion enhancer. 
• Combining prebiotics and probiotics - Probiotics and prebiotics promote digestive health and faster digestion of food by establishing a healthy colony of bacteria and microorganisms. They can be used alongside whey protein isolate for an even healthier body. 
• Side Effects and Discomfort - Monitoring Even though whey protein isolate potentially improves health, it is still possible that you may experience discomfort and side effects. See a specialist for cases of distress or prolonged side effects. Alternatively, you can switch to other protein sources. 

Whey Protein Isolate for Women

The percentage of female gym goers has increased sharply over the years. According to the Global Health and Fitness Association, women account for 50.5% of regular gym goers, which is more than half the population of those at the gym. The good news is they can also use this rich protein source to build and maintain muscle mass, and achieve weight and fitness goals. 

How Whey Protein Can Support Women's Health and Fitness Goals 

• Building and Maintaining Muscle Mass - Whey protein isolate has a richer amino acid profile than other protein sources. For weight or resistance training, it promotes lean body mass development and muscle hypertrophy. 
• Supporting Weight Loss - Women can increase their protein intake by consuming whey protein isolate. A higher protein intake speeds up the body's metabolism, suppresses appetite, and preserves muscle mass for better weight management. 
• Enhancing Recovery - A higher protein intake supplies the body with the right branch-chain amino acids needed for muscle recovery after a heavy workout. 

Best Practices for Using Whey Protein Isolate for Women 

• Timing and Dosage Recommendations - Women can take whey protein at any time of the day. However, for muscle building and faster recovery, it is recommended that they have it within a 2-hour time frame after their workout. As for the proper dosage, 25g of whey protein isolate should be sufficient. 
• Combining with Resistance Training - Combining whey protein intake with resistance training promotes faster recovery of muscles and the development of lean body mass, allowing women to attain their fitness goals relatively faster. 
• Focusing on Overall Diet and Nutrition - Whey protein isolate only acts as a dietary or gym supplement; therefore, a healthy diet is still essential. Every meal should provide all the required macronutrients and micronutrients for better results. 

Whey Protein Isolate for Older Adults 

Inadequate protein intake severely impacts older adults as it can contribute to increased skin fragility, decreased immune function, poor healing, decreased reserve capacity, and extended recuperation time. The older adult population can supplement their regular meals with whey protein isolate to increase their protein intake. 

How Whey Protein Isolate Can Support Muscle and Bone in Older Adults 

• Supporting Muscle Mass and Strength - The amino acid profile in whey protein isolate aids in lean body mass development and increases muscle mass- a benefit that older adults can also enjoy. 
• Enhancing Recovery - Consumption of whey protein supplements such as whey protein isolate products has proven to promote protein synthesis among the older generation, which plays a vital role in recovery.

Best Practices For Using Whey Protein Isolate for Older Adults 

• Timing and Dosage Recommendations - Since most older adults do not consume the recommended amount of protein, they should have roughly 25g of whey protein isolate daily. 
• Combining With Resistance Training - Some resistance training exercises for older adults include hip extension, hip abduction, calf raises, and press lifts. Combining such exercises with whey protein intake can improve lean body mass development and strength. 
• Eating Healthy - Older adults must also watch their overall diet and nutrition to avoid taking too much protein intake from whey protein isolate at the cost of other minerals and vitamins. 

Whey Protein Isolate and Meal Planning 

Whey protein isolate is a milk-based protein source that can be easily incorporated into meals. You will still get all the benefits those who mix it with water or a low-calorie liquid base enjoy. Let's find out how you can achieve whey protein isolate meal planning. 

How Whey Protein Isolate Can Fit into a Healthy Meal Plan 

• Incorporating into breakfast - You can include whey protein isolate in breakfast cereals, pancakes, banana bread, waffles, or crepes. Alternatively, add one or two scoops of whey protein isolate supplement alongside other ingredients to your blender and make a breakfast smoothie or shake. 
• Using as a Snack - You can mix 1 or 2 scoops of whey protein isolate powder with water or organic milk as a snack replacement. It will leave you feeling more satisfied. 
• Adding to Meals - Whey protein isolates foams quickly and mixes with different foods, which makes it an excellent addition to meals such as soups or low-carb pastries. 

Best Practices for Using Protein Isolate in Meal Planning 

When using whey protein isolate, combine it into your cooking to ensure your food is high in protein.

• Meal Ideas and Recipes - You can get creative and try as many recipes as possible. Include some whey protein isolate in your morning pancake, a bowl of cereals,  afternoon soup, or evening caramel frappe. If you intend to make a whey protein shake, get some ice, a cup of milk, a banana, and other additives such as berries, mix them in your blender, add a scoop of whey protein isolate powder, and blend. 

How to Use Whey Protein Isolate

You can mix 1-2 scoops of whey protein isolate powder with water or a low-calorie liquid base or incorporate the right amounts in meals such as breakfast. You can also combine your isolate with protein sources such as cottage cheese, fat-free cream cheese, or low-sugar yogurt.

On timing, the suitable period to take whey protein isolate supplements differ depending on your goal. For weight control, taking whey protein isolate alongside your breakfast is recommended to make you feel less hungry for the better part of the day. For muscle recovery, take whey protein isolate within 2 hours after your workout for its anabolic effects. 

Choosing the Right Whey Protein Isolate 

Some of the factors to consider when choosing a whey protein isolate include the following: 

• Purity/ Protein Content - The purity of your whey protein isolate affects its quality and bioavailability. Ensure that you only obtain products that are 100% pure by reading through the product labels to find out the amount of protein in each serving and the protein sources. 
• Ingredients - We advise you to settle for products with natural ingredients only. Your choice should be devoid of artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Furthermore, ensure your whey protein isolate contains minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium for better energy synthesis. 
• Easy Digestion - Most people complain about stomach upsets whenever they consume certain brands of whey protein isolates. Therefore, it is advisable to settle for a product that incorporates a digestive enhancer in its ingredients. 
• Brand Reviews - Knowing which brand to trust can be a tall order, especially in a saturated market. Discover what customers say about different brands before buying a whey protein isolate. Researching customer feedback will also tell you the right product to buy if you have a specific target. 

Comparison of Different Brands of Whey Protein Isolate 

1. Modern ISO - This is one of the most recommended product brands for whey protein isolate. It offers high-quality and professionally formulated products such as Modern ISO: The Better Whey Protein Isolate. 
2. Muscletech - Muscletech is a premium performance supplement brand with products such as Muscletech: Whey Protein Plus Isolate, which is packed with high-quality whey protein, BCAAs, and creatine for muscle recovery and support. Its products cater to a range of users, including elite athletes. 
3. Gaspari Nutrition - Like Modern ISO and Muscletech, Gaspari nutrition has created a name for itself as one of the best gym supplements. Rich Gaspari, a famous American retired bodybuilder, owns it. 

Tips for Reading Labels and Understanding Ingredient List 

1. Ingredients are usually listed based on their inclusion order; therefore, the first listed ingredient is the most dominant. 
2. Nutritional information differs from flavor to flavor; therefore, determine the correct dietary information for the flavor you buy. 
3. The nutritional content of 100g of both supplements matters more than the serving sizes when comparing brands. 

Dosage and Potential Side Effects 

The recommended dosage of whey protein isolate is 1-2 scoops a day, giving you a maximum protein content of 60g. Usage should be capped at most six months. Some of the common side effects of whey protein isolate use occasioned by consumption of high doses include: 

• Reduced appetite 
• Tiredness 
• Headache 
• Increased bowel movement 
• Nausea 
• Acne
• Thirst 

Read your product's label to determine if you are allergic to any ingredients, which should help you avoid some of these side effects. You can also use digestive enhancers or eat protein-rich foods instead to avoid digestive side effects such as increased bowel movements. Lastly, increase your hydration levels to prevent or reduce side effects like thirst. 

Remember to consult a doctor if you have ever suffered from a liver or kidney disease before using whey protein isolates. A doctor's visit is also necessary if any of the above side effects persist.

Conclusion 

Whey protein isolate is a rich protein source that serves several purposes. It can be used as gym supplement for muscle growth, faster recovery, and strength improvement, among many others. It also benefits different demographics, such as old adults who stand to enjoy improved bone density. It also comes devoid of any lactose content, making it a good option for the lactose intolerant. If you choose a quality product and get the dosage and timing right, whey protein isolate can be the key to achieving your fitness and healthy living goals.