Whey Protein Isolate (WPI)

Whey protein isolate is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids the human body requires from dietary intake. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and play a vital role in metabolism, muscle growth, immune function, DNA synthesis and repair. You can take whey protein isolate to help your body recover from exercise, build lean muscle mass, and meet your daily dietary protein requirements. (1, 2).

Whey protein and whey isolate are both types of whey protein. The main difference between them is that whey isolate powder has lower amounts of fat, carbohydrate, and lactose.

As WPI has had most of its lactose removed during the refining process, it's suitable for those who are lactose-intolerant or have digestive issues with other whey protein powders.

Whey isolate is also absorbed into the body more quickly as it is finer during this refinement process, and has a slightly higher percentage of protein per serving.

Whey protein and isolate protein both contain many of the same amino acids so it really depends on your dietary requirements and personal preference for which one is best for you. (3, 4).

The best whey protein isolate supplement for you will depend on what you're using the powder for and your preferences.

At Elite Supplements, we stock a number of different whey protein powder brands, so you can choose the one which offers the best combination of price, quality, and performance.

Some of our most popular brands include BioTechUSA, Muscle Nation, International Protein, and Optimum Nutrition (ON whey isolate).

If you need more advice on choosing an isolate protein powder, feel free to contact us or visit one of our stores for personalised guidance. (5, 6).

You can take whey protein isolate at any time of the day to boost your protein intake and stick to your diet with a quick and convenient meal replacement or snack. However, if your main goal is to maximise muscle growth, it's best to take whey protein isolate after exercising, within 30 minutes of finishing your workout. (7, 8).

BCAAs or branched-chain amino acids are essential amino acids that the body doesn't produce on its own, so you need to obtain them from dietary sources. BCAAs are important for supporting lean muscle mass and optimal physical performance, as well as boosting immune function, energy production, mood regulation, and cardiac health. (9, 10, 11).

Yes, whey protein isolate is considered lactose-free. Whey protein contains some lactose because it's derived from milk, but the process of purifying whey to make whey isolate removes most of the lactose.

However, if you're allergic to milk or if you're extremely sensitive to trace amounts of dairy, it may still cause an adverse reaction. You should also be aware that whey protein isolate is processed in facilities that also handle milk products.

Whey protein is also gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. (12)

Yes, taking whey protein isolate can support your weight loss efforts. Whey is a high-quality complete protein that contains all nine of the essential amino acids your body needs to stay healthy.

When you're on a reduced-calorie diet or simply adopting healthier choices to try lose weight, using a protein supplement like whey protein isolate can help you to reduce muscle loss and make it easier for your body to burn fat. It's also an effective way to curb your appetite, as protein is highly satiating and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Finally, as our WPI powders come in delicious flavours like chocolate, salted caramel, vanilla, and cookies & cream but are low in fat, carbs, and sugar, this is an ideal way to satisfy your sweet tooth without blowing your diet. (13, 14).

Yes, whey protein isolate is safe for most people (including women) to use. There are no major side effects associated with this type of supplement.

Whey protein supplements have even been shown to improve health markers in some clinical studies. It can help lower blood pressure and inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.

However, consuming excessive amounts of protein power can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, cramps, flatulence and diarrhea. People who eat very high protein diets (including from dietary sources like beef and eggs) also have a higher risk of kidney stones. As long as you make sure you are consuming protein within recommended limits, you should be fine.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications, then check with your doctor before using an isolate whey protein powder supplement. (15).

There are many ways to incorporate whey protein isolate into your diet. You can either drink it as a shake mixed with water or milk, or use it as a protein source in healthy smoothies, stir it into oatmeal, or add it when making pancakes or brownies.

Whey protein has been shown to be particularly beneficial for bodybuilders because it contains high levels of essential amino acids and is low in fat and carbohydrates.

There are several types of protein powder, including:

• Whey protein concentrate

  One of the least processed forms of whey protein supplement that contains higher levels of lactose and carbohydrates.

• Whey protein isolate

  A form of whey that has been purified with additional filtration steps to minimise the levels of fat, lactose and carbs.

• Hydrolysed whey protein

  The most processed form of whey protein supplement. It is broken down into smaller pieces to make it faster-acting and easier to digest.

• Whey protein blend

  A combination of whey protein concentrate, isolate and/or hydrolysed forms of whey. Some blends also contain casein protein, another type of high-quality protein, and may have added ingredients such as vitamins and minerals or collagen to provide additional health benefits.

• Casein protein

  One of the two main proteins found in milk. It is slower to digest than whey, meaning it keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

• Mass Gainer

  A protein powder that has been designed to help people who are trying to gain significant weight, usually in the form of lean muscle. It contains a high level of calories from carbohydrates and fat so you can consume more calories per day.

• Slow-release protein powder

  A type of protein powder that contains a blend of different proteins. It has a slower release rate of over several hours to help maintain muscle growth and repair.

All of these protein powders can help you build muscle when used in conjunction with an effective workout routine. The particular version of the protein supplement you choose will depend on your personal preferences and goals. (16, 17).

Elite Supplements is Australia's most trusted online supplement store. We stock a range of protein powders and sports supplements from the best supplements brands, including Optimum Nutrition, Emrald Labs, ATP Science, and Prana.

You can buy whey protein isolate from us, as well as a huge range of other health and fitness supplements, at great prices.