Protein powders can be broken down into three main types. These include protein concentrates, protein isolates, and hydrolyzed protein isolates. Protein concentrates and isolates are the most common and generally offer the best value for money. Some products also include a blend of more than one type.
Protein RDI Table
Concentrate
Isolate
Hydrolysate
Purity
80%
90%
94%
Digestion
Medium
Fast
Rapid
Carbs
Moderate
Low
Negl.
Fat
Moderate
Low
Negl.
Lactose
Moderate
Low
Negl.
Price
$
$$
$$$
Protein Concentrate
Concentrates are the least processed form and contain approximately 80% protein. Concentrates also contain the highest amount of non-protein content. They can include some fat and lactose content when using dairy-based protein. This form is the most inexpensive, however, can also cause digestive issues, especially for those that are lactose intolerant. This type is ideally used pre-workout or for other dietary purposes including weight loss.
Protein Isolate
Protein Isolates are the most common form of protein type used. This form is made by filtering out most of the impurities found in a concentrate. This includes lactose which makes this product far easier to digest with dairy-sourced protein. We recommend using this protein type post-workout. As its quickly digested, it provides amino acids for muscle growth and repair when the body needs it.
Protein Hydrolysate
Hydrolysates are isolates that have undergone additional processing to remove almost all impurities and to pre-digest the product. This means that some of the peptide bonds have been broken down to make protein digestion more rapid. This protein type is usually the most expensive due to the additional processing. It can also have a slightly bitter taste that can make it less palatable. This type is ideal for athletes post-workout for rapid amino acid delivery.
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