Whey protein is a rich source of essential amino acids that our body needs on a daily basis. It is a pure, natural and high quality protein that comes from cow's milk. It is one of the conglomerates that separate from milk during this process. This whey is the raw material that will eventually make up whey protein. However, there are two types of whey protein that a body builder must choose from if they want results from it. The two types of Whey Protein are Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) and Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC).
In making that choice between WPI and WPC, one should remember that the difference between such choices does not always lie in their cost. They have different effects and they are being synthesized differently by the human body.
Milk Whey
What You Need To Know About WPI And WPC
First, you need to know the difference between WPC and WPI. WPC contains low levels of fat and cholesterol but, in general, has higher levels of bioactive compounds and carbohydrates in the form of lactose as compared to WPI. Simply put, a WPC is a protein that is one of the first isolated whey. WPC is less refined and less expensive than WPI, but it is certainly more useful for some athletes compared with others. On the other hand, WPI has one of the highest amounts of protein that's also available as a derivative of a milk protein. It is a mixture of globular proteins isolated from whey and the liquid material created as a by-product of cheese production. This ensures that the body acquires lower levels of fat. Simply put, processed WPI removes the fat and the excess lactose from WPC. WPI is a well-refined version of WPC, that's it.
Now that you know the difference between a Whey Protein Isolate and Whey Protein Concentrate, you need to weigh your options when choosing between the two.
Here are some important notes to remember when making your decision:
1. COST. Yes, we keep saying not to consider this at first but this is still part of the equation. If you want to maintain the body that you want or the muscles that you will gain, you have to ensure that you can afford and sustain the maintenance cost. Starting something and not being able to finish it would make the first attempt useless. If you are concerned about your maintenance cost, then WPC is the whey protein for you. It is less refined than WPI but less expensive.
2. CONSIDER YOUR HEALTH. Of course, body builders and athletes are human beings too and may be susceptible to allergies. If you are lactose intolerant and allergic to eggs, do not even consider WPC. In cases like these, WPI is definitely the whey protein for you.
3. GOALS. Finally, consider your goals. Keep in mind that your goals are within your reach and supplementing it with the proper whey protein can help you reach that goal faster than you can ever imagine. Hence, if you want instant results, the fast acting WPI is better suited for pre- and post-workout supplements intake. The body absorbs WPI very quickly and makes it available to the muscles as required.