Whey Protein Isolate, Hydrolysate, and Concentrate: Which Is Best?
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By: Mark Sisson
You may think of protein supplements as a supplement for muscle heads, but they're for everyone - provided that you choose the right one for you. You need dietary protein for your body's day-to-day upkeep and to age well. Up to a third of older adults don't get enough protein for various reasons, like reduced appetite and changing tastes. There are lots of ways to get protein, and here, I'll go through one of the most convenient and beneficial forms: whey protein.
What is Whey Protein?Whey is a protein-packed byproduct of cheese production. It's that pseudo-clear liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained. Cheese makers used to toss it aside as waste material, until food scientists started to understand its value.Today, we know that whey protein isn't just a single protein. Instead, it houses an impressive array of proteins: beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, and serum albumin. These are complete proteins, comprised of the essential amino acids central to protein synthesis and increased muscular hypertrophy (muscle growth).Our bodies can produce non-essential amino acids from lesser amino acids, but we cannot produce the essentials ourselves; we must eat quality protein sources. Whey is a naturally occurring, essential protein that satisfies the body's protein requirements hence its popularity.
