Difference Between Isolate and Concentrate

Isolate vs Concentrate

If you are into fitness, particularly bodybuilding, you must be familiar with whey protein. Whey protein is a staple in the fitness industry, as it has been proven to be an excellent supplement for both fitness and physical aesthetic purposes.

We all know that protein is vital for muscle repair, growth and weight loss. It is one of the three macronutrients needed by our body to function to the fullest of its potential. We need protein in our bodies, especially when we’re doing regular exercises, and the most efficient way to get a sufficient amount of protein into our body, is by supplementing our diet with whey.

Whey is the most popular protein available on the market today. It is inexpensive, and contains many beneficial amino acids. Whey comes from milk, as it is, in fact, 20 percent of all milk protein. Whey protein is also fast and easy to digest.

Whey protein is available in either Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) or Whey Protein Isolate (WPI). Nowadays, these two types are enormously popular in the fitness market, and often leave consumers confused about which one to buy and consume.

Concentrate

Whey protein concentrate is the more common of the two types. First of all, concentrates are significantly cheaper. To acquire them, the source of whey ‘“ which is in dairy products such as milk ‘“ is filtered to separate the protein from the water, and other organic materials. The acquired protein is then made into powder, or whey protein concentrate.

Concentrates contain about 70 to 80 percent protein, and can have about 5 percent of lactose. Therefore, lactose intolerant individuals cannot consume large amounts of this protein source.

Isolates

Whey protein isolates are significantly more expensive when compared to concentrates. This is mainly because they are ‘more pure’, as they consist of about 95 percent protein. Isolates also have little to no lactose content; with the fat content significantly lower than those of concentrates.

Basically, isolates are the protein source of choice for people with lactose intolerance. Isolates also makes it easy for individuals who count macronutrients by the tick. They are also great for people who are dieting, because of their fat-free and cholesterol-free content.

The source of isolates is the same as concentrates, but more filtration and separation of protein is done, apparently, to result in a ‘more pure’ form of protein.

The Verdict

The debate is continuously ongoing which of the two types is the better option. Well, protein is still protein, whether you get it from concentrate, isolate, or food. If you are not really particular about the other contents of concentrates, such as fats and lactose, then concentrate is the better and cheaper option. Yet, if you are lactose intolerant, and want only the protein in your whey supplement, isolates are for you. It’s a pocket burner though.

Note that there are available blends of isolates and concentrates on the market. This is another option for consumers to consider.

Summary:

1. Both isolate and concentrates (whey) come from the same protein source ‘“ dairy products.

2. To acquire these supplements, the protein source (milk/whey) is subjected to a filtration and separation process. Isolates, however, are filtered and separated further to produce a ‘more pure’ form of protein.

3. Concentrates are more common, and they are significantly cheaper than the expensive isolates.

4. Isolates are a ‘more pure’ form of protein. They consist of about 95 percent protein, whereas concentrates contain about 70 to 80 percent protein.

5. Concentrates still contain fat and lactose, while isolates have little to none of those contents.

6. Concentrates are definitely not for lactose intolerant people, while isolates are just perfect for them.

7. There are now blends of concentrates and isolates available on the market.

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