Isolate production
Whey protein isolate is isolated from whey using mainly two methods:
- Ion exchange when exposed to high temperatures.
- Gentle microfiltration method.
The isolation of protein from whey must take place without damaging the structure of the raw material. Animal fats, cholesterol, and lactose are removed from the composition, preserving nutrients, which is very difficult.
The price of whey protein isolate produced by the second method is slightly higher. It has additional properties:
- Increase immunity.
- Retain oxygen in tissues.
- It is well absorbed without creating digestive problems.
The cheaper option also has all the qualities of isolates, but you should not expect additional beneficial properties from them.
There are other ways to obtain an insulator, but they are complex and unprofitable, so they are no longer used. Whey turned out to be an ideal source of protein.
Egg protein also exists, but its production involves some difficulties. It is made by only 8 companies, and therefore the prices are quite high. To obtain egg protein isolate, whole eggs are used, which guarantees a close-to-ideal amino acid composition and the presence of pure egg albumin.
How is it produced and what does it consist of?
Protein isolate is a sports supplement, the composition of which usually looks like this (the composition example refers to isolates from the middle price segment):
- Protein. At least 90% of the total ingredients. Supplements with lower protein concentrations are not isolates.
- Soy or sunflower lecithin . Used to increase the solubility of the main component.
- Flavoring agent . It is necessary to correct the smell of the isolate, which in its natural form has a sour aroma that can repel the consumer from a particular product.
- Secondary component , such as cocoa powder. Used in a number of cases to change the taste of a food additive.
- Natural colors, such as beet juice. They are used by some manufacturers and, as a rule, reduce the cost of the isolate itself.
- Sweetener , such as sucralose. Despite its minimal calorie content, this ingredient may make the product unsuitable for people trying to lose weight or those who, for health reasons, are forced to limit their consumption of sugars and sugar substitutes, regardless of the origin of these additives.
The nutritional value (in particular, protein concentration) of 100 g of high-quality isolate is equal to the value of 500 g of chicken fillet.
The production of protein isolate consists of several stages:
- Ion exchange . This is a type of fine processing of whey, as a result of which the maximum amount of protein is retained in the dietary supplement. The disadvantages of this stage are the preservation of beta-lactoglobulin, which is considered one of the strongest allergens.
- Microfiltration . As a result of this process, the manufacturer achieves maximum purity in the composition of its product, removing undesirable components (for example, allergens, lactose, fat), while maintaining a high protein concentration.
Whey protein isolate production flowchart
In 90% of cases, manufacturers use only one of the stages in the production of their product. This is done in order to reduce costs for primary processing and, as a result, reduce the price of the finished additive and increase demand from consumers.
Composition and properties of the isolate?
Protein isolate composition:
- Whey proteins – from 90%.
- Amino acids.
- Complex of macroelements (magnesium, potassium, calcium and others).
The exact formula and ratio of components depend on the brand. Each manufacturer uses a special method for obtaining the product. Proteins contain lactoferrin, beta-lactoglobulin, immunoglobulins, alpha-lactalbumin. Only undenatured isolate fully retains all its properties.
Dosage and features of administration
Whey protein in purified form should be taken in an amount of 20-25 grams per day (this is to support the normal functioning of the body). If the main goal is to gain weight, then there should be more protein - about 150-170 grams per day. At the same time, an overdose of protein is not advisable, because this can lead to increased stress on the liver and kidneys. The optimal time to take isolate is about 30-40 minutes before training or 30-40 minutes after it.
Action
Protein isolate helps burn fat without harming muscle mass. As a result, the muscles become more prominent and gain volume. Amino acids provide the body with all the necessary substances, neutralizing the harm from reducing carbohydrates and fats in the diet. Macroelements nourish the body and protect against imbalances.
During normal weight loss, exactly the same processes occur, but on a smaller scale, so whey protein isolate works a little differently.
Action:
- It is quickly absorbed and enters directly into the blood and muscles (in just 3 hours).
- Creates a high concentration of free amino acids.
- Stimulates the production of insulin (anabolic hormone).
- Suppresses catabolism.
- Restores muscles after training.
- Reduces appetite.
- Increases fat burning.
- Improves the production of the antioxidant glutathione.
Sports nutrition is aimed at neutralizing negative processes in the body, activating the process of drying and gaining muscle mass. Protein supplements facilitate and accelerate the formation of new muscle fibers and saturate the body with useful substances.
Whey Protein and Its Benefits
Whey is one of the two main components of milk, the liquid portion that is separated from the curds (the other main component) during the cheese making process. Whey contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Whey protein is produced on its basis.
Due to its complete amino acid profile and rapid absorption, whey protein is arguably the most popular sports nutrition product.
Whey protein has been shown to increase muscle protein synthesis, support fat burning, boost immunity, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce appetite.
Additionally, it increases the production of glutathione, a major antioxidant in the body.
Benefits of Whey Isolate
- Fast absorption.
- Balanced cost (before hydrolysates).
- High protein concentration (before concentrates).
- Fewer harmful substances in the composition.
- There are no side effects if you follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Supply of all necessary amino acids and macroelements, including essential ones.
- Protein is almost completely absorbed by the body.
- Easy obtaining process (affordable price).
Whey protein isolate is easy to prepare - just dissolve the powder in a liquid - water, tea, juice.
What is the source material?
So, we all know about the existence of such a supplement as whey protein. If taken correctly, you can significantly speed up the process of muscle growth, increase the effectiveness of training and give the body the necessary supply of energy. However, we must not forget that there are three main types of whey protein:
- concentrate, which contains from 60 to 90 percent pure protein,
- hydrolyzate, obtained by hydrolysis and destruction of bonds between amino acids (this is done for better absorption of protein by the body),
- Isolate is the purest form of protein without unnecessary components - fat, carbohydrates and, of course, cholesterol. This is why this whey protein is most in demand among athletes.
Cons of Whey Isolate
Many of the myths that tarnish the reputation of whey protein isolate are untrue. Ordinary people do not quite understand what isolate is needed for, and attribute non-existent properties to it.
In fact, the protein supplement has almost no side effects or contraindications, that is, the isolate is not harmful to the body. Sport in general is entirely aimed at improving health.
The potential harm of protein to humans is possible:
- If you are allergic to parts of the composition (individual intolerance).
- In case of non-compliance with dosages.
- For dysbacteriosis.
- In case of improper formation or non-compliance with the diet.
Allergies to proteins or other parts of the composition cause individual reactions, but they are rare. In other cases, improper use of protein isolate can lead to constipation, flatulence, and diarrhea.
How to take protein?
Undenatured protein isolate has certain rules for administration, which are not always described in the instructions for use. Fast protein isolate should account for up to 50% of the daily protein requirement, the rest of the proteins need to be from food (slow types).
Otherwise, follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Ideally, you need to adhere to the course intake. One course – up to 10 weeks.
To lose weight
Experiments have shown that during aerobic training, a person needs approximately 0.88 g of whey protein isolate per 1 kg of body weight per day. To lose weight, you should take half this dose and divide it into two doses - in the morning and immediately after training.
You should not exceed these figures so as not to disrupt the smooth process of weight loss. The body must gradually build muscle mass and burn fat. Protein for weight loss has only an auxiliary effect:
- Accelerates fat burning processes.
- Normalizes nitrogen balance.
- Slows down the breakdown of muscle proteins.
- Improves the accumulation of leucine, an amino acid responsible for mass gain and fat burning.
Over time, the need for isolate consumption decreases (while maintaining your training and diet regimen). The body smoothly switches to self-sufficiency: metabolism accelerates, immunity increases, muscle corset strengthens, fat mass decreases.
If you exceed the dosage in pursuit of rapid weight loss, the process will proceed differently. The body will require more energy to absorb excess proteins, an imbalance of amino acids and microelements will begin, and muscle growth will slow down. Instead of losing weight, chronic fatigue syndrome and metabolic problems will soon appear.
To increase dry mass
Research has shown that the body's response to protein intake and strength training is highly individual. The muscle response can vary by 65%, which precludes the formation of a general treatment plan. Whey isolate should be taken according to an individual regimen drawn up by a nutritionist and trainer.
Typically the regimen includes 6-7 doses per day. On average, 1.2 g per day per 1 kg of body weight is recommended. This dose is optimal for healthy adults aiming to increase strength and endurance.
When a significant increase in muscle mass is required, it is recommended to include a gainer (proteins + carbohydrates) in the diet.
Interaction of the isolate with other drugs and sports nutrition
Protein should be carefully combined with medications and nutritional supplements.
With another sports nutrition
Can be safely combined with all sports supplements, except protein ones. Exceeding the dosage of protein is fraught with negative consequences. If for any reason such a combination is necessary, you should consult with a trainer or your doctor.
With medications
It is strictly forbidden to use isolate and Levodopa together. The isolate is not safe for people taking tetracycline and conventional antibiotics, alendronate. Before combining, you should study the protein isolate in more detail, what it is and how to use it.
Best Isolate Brands
Only a few manufacturers have chosen one direction, releasing pure isolate to the market. Most brands combine it with a concentrate. It's convenient and cheap, although the 100% insulated option is more useful.
Whey Protein Isolate
“Whey Protein Isolate” can consist solely of isolates or an isolate with the addition of concentrates and hydrolysates in different proportions. Whey Protein Isolate offers the opportunity to choose an individual option for a specific goal and needs of the body.
F2 Full Force Nutrition
F2 products are distinguished by the presence of vitamin B6 and many amino acids, including BCAA. The composition is aimed at gently building muscle volume.
Optimum Nutrition
ON specializes in a variety of protein complexes aimed at achieving a specific goal - rehabilitation after injury, rapid mass gain, restoration of strength after difficult competitions or training. The brand's proteins are produced with natural flavors.
All world sports organizations (NFL, LPGA, PGA, MLB, NHL and CCES) allow the use of special nutrition (protein) to improve muscle mass. When drawing up a nutrition plan, you should study protein isolate - what it is, how to use it correctly and combine it with other substances.
