Many of us are focusing on better health for 2022, and as part of that process we tend to evaluate our diet. We know protein is an important one of the macro nutrients we need to survive and thrive, but there is also a lot of confusion with regard to whey protein and the different types of protein supplements available.
Whey protein has a complete amino acid profile, which means it contains all of our essential (must be consumed) amino acids. Additionally, whey contains non-essential amino acids, and is highly bioavailable (easily utilized by the body). However, for some people who have challenges with lactose or casein, whey concentrate can cause some digestive distress. That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of whey protein available today.
First, whey protein is the byproduct of making cheese. When milk is made into cheese, cruds are formed and inside the curds is a liquid that is called whey. The curds are pressed to release the liquid. This liquid is whey protein concentrate (the concentrated liquid from making cheese).
Whey protein concentrate will contain the dairy components (fat, cholesterol, lactose and casein) that you would normally find in milk. There are benefits to whey protein concentrate. First, you may fill full longer because of the time it takes to digest the fat and casein components. Second, many people find whey protein concentrate to have a more creamy mouth feel than other form of whey protein. However, those who are sensitive to lactose and casein may not want to select a whey protein concentrate. So, what options do they have?
Whey protein isolate! Think of whey isolate as “isolating” out the amino acids (those building blocks for our body) from whey concentrate. This can be accomplished several different ways. Let’s take a look at some of the processes used to accomplish this.
First, Ion Exchange. This process uses chemicals that are introduced to the liquid concentrate that precipitate out the undesirable milk components but also will eliminate the immunoglobulin and lactoferrin, components of whey. This process technically “denatures” whey protein.
Next there is what is called hydrolyzed whey protein isolate. This process uses heat and enzymes to isolate out the amino acids, but it too will eliminate the immunoglobulin and lactoferrin. Again – denatures the whey component.
Filtered whey protein isolate is what we are seeing more of today because it will not denature the protein and, when done properly, will provide you with all the amino acids so beneficial in whey.
There are 2 different filtration techniques, micro filtration and ultra-filtration. These processes generally use membranes to filter out most of the fat, cholesterol, lactose, and casein. Filtration is a process that will not denature the protein.
It’s important to look at supplements facts panels on whey protein supplements because there can be combination where concentrate and isolate are blended together in a product. For those with sensitivity to lactose and casein, these could cause some digestive challenges. Some products are a blend of micro filtration and ultra-filtration materials.
There is one product, Biochem Whey Protein Isolate, that is a noted as dual filtered. That means the single batch of concentrate is ultra-filtered and micro filtered. Think of double sifting flour. This dual filtration makes this Biochem Whey Protein Isolate 99% lactose free! Additionally, this process helps to retain some of the immunoglobulin and lactoferrin components. It mixes VERY easily and tastes GREAT!
For a post workout shake, an afternoon snack, or mixed in a smoothie for breakfast, Biochem Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent choice for adding additional important amino acids to your daily routine. And with sugar free options that are KETO friendly, the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy a smoothie today!
