Whey Protein - What Exactly Is Whey Protein Powder?

You've heard all about protein and how it's needed for muscle growth, but what about the different types? Whey protein is one of the most common protein supplements available and we've done the research to find out why...

Whey protein is a mix of globular proteins which can be isolated during the making of cheese and they are removed once the cheese is processed. Some manufacturers further remove some of the non protein elements, such as lipids, to ensure the highest possible protein percentage.

You will typically be able to buy whey protein is three major forms -

Whey Protein Concentrate

Concentrated whey protein is a popular choice among  gym goers, despite containing smaller amounts of protein and this is most likely due to being much cheaper than other forms. A good whey protein concentrate product will offer over 60% protein (you don't want a whey protein concentrate containing anything lower than 60%) and some go as high as 80%. Generally, the lower the protein percentage of the product, the higher the fat and carbohydrate levels, so make sure you're reading the nutrition labels. Also make sure any whey protein concentrate you use is diluted (two level teaspoons of concentrate with half a glass of water or juice as a general guide), consuming the powder "raw" is a serious choking hazard.

Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein isolate is the purest form of whey protein available and is very popular due to the fact that it can be digested extremely quickly and has low levels of fat and lactose. In the muscle building world, being in a anabolic state post work out is crucial to realise the maximum benefit of the workout and one of the easiest ways from catabolic to anabolic is through the ingestion of a quality whey protein isolate.

Whey Protein Hydrolysate

Whey protein hydrolysate is whey protein in its purest form. It undergoes more processing than both whey protein concentrate and isolate and is perhaps less popular due to the higher price tag. Price aside, the body will digest a hydrolysate blend quicker than any other, making it the ideal pre and post workout supplement.  The method used to extract whey protein hydrolysate kills the "active" proteins found in other forms, making it unsuitable as a snack or meal replacement and ensures a very unpalatable bitter taste.

5 Facts About Whey Protein

	Manufacturers of weight loss drinks have made whey protein the primary ingredient in their meal replacement shakes.
	Before the protein supplement industry went mainstream, this by-product of cheese was simply thrown away, often been dumped into rivers and Before the protein supplement industry went mainstream, this by-product of cheese was simply thrown away, often been dumped into rivers and Before the protein supplement industry went mainstream, this by-product of cheese was simply thrown away, often been dumped into rivers and streams.
	Whey protein is a fantastic source of amino acids which are a crucial element to many of the bodies core functions.
	If you drink the shake and leave the dregs airtight in a whey protein shaker, the shaker will quickly smell bad. To clean, mix some salt water with lemon juice and give it a shake then leave to stand for half an hour and rinse.
	Whey protein is not a medicine or a weight loss wonder pill, it is simply a supplement which should be used as part of a well balanced diet and a structured workout plan.

Whey Protein Side Effects

As whey protein is a by-product of dairy produce, if you are allergic to dairy, you should avoid any whey protein blends as a reaction is likely. Long periods of consumption may lead to kidney problems but there is no reliable evidence to suggest proof this theory. Heavy whey protein users may also experience increased flatulence and more frequent visits to the toilet,

Recommended Whey Proteins

Whether you're after a whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate or whey protein hydrolysate, we've done the research for you and the products below are unbeatable and among the best on the market.

Whey Protein Concentrate

Look no further than MyProtein.co.uk for great tasting whey protein with over 82% protein content and super fast delivery. Prices start from £14.49 for a 1kg pouch and discounts are available for larger orders.

Whey Protein Isolate

Nutrisport Whey Protein Isolate has been a consistent seller on this website for years. It's generously priced and manufactured by Nutrisport, a leading pioneer in the protein isolate market. There's over 90% whey protein isolate contained in each 5kg tub with less than 2% fat, making it an attractive supplement for anyone looking to get the most out of their gym sessions.

Whey Protein Hydrolysate

After testing various hydrolysate products, we are yet to find one we are comfortable recommending on this site. Our testing is ongoing and we hope to have online soon. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to get in touch.