So what is whey protein isolate (WHI) exactly? It is one of the three forms of processed proteins from whey. The other two are concentrates and hydrosylates. Among these three, WHI contain the highest level of protein content – almost 90%, as compared to the whey concentrate’s 29 to 89% protein composition. There is minimal lactose and fats left after the whey underwent processing.

WHI is produced by removing the base component of pasteurized whey. The base components are water and all other contents like lactose and fats. Once the protein materials are isolated, the remainder is then dried. The result is a powder based-form with a bland clean flavor.

There are usually two filtration methods that can be used in order to produce WHI. One is with the use of ion exchanges that denature proteins. The use of this method has a risk in damaging the proteins. The other method is called microfiltration.

These filtration methods are the reasons why this form is less allergenic than the other forms of whey. As it is widely known, protein from whey is a milk protein which is infamous on its ability to induce allergic reactions. In contrast, WHI undergoes a rigid filtration process in order to remove the non-protein components of this lactic protein. One of these components is its lactose content which is the one that is highly allergenic.

This form is highly bioavailable which means that the body can readily absorb a good amount of its original composition. The high absorption level can guarantee that with little or minimal amount, the benefits of WHI can already be enjoyed as opposed to other forms or even with other dietary supplements which are also gaining popularity.

Other than being highly absorbable, isolates are also rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). These amino acids are essential for the functions of the human body and are metabolized directly by muscle tissues. These amino acids are used to boost muscle building and fuel up protein synthesis.

WPI are popular nowadays because of its essential contribution to the now-trendy sport of body building. It is very much needed by body building enthusiasts because of its high absorption rate in the bloodstream. It can also be digested rapidly, thus aids the return of the post-work out body back from the muscle wasting state to its muscle building condition, faster than other metabolic supplements. These great benefits actually drive the minds of consumers off the possible side effects of whey protein isolate.

The popularity of WPI led to the creation of its dehydrated forms which easily reduced its shipping and packaging requirements. These powdered isolates have also extended its shelf life making it readily and widely available not only in the United States, but in other countries as well.

The dehydration process doesn’t really affect the component of the supplement. In fact, this form can be reconstituted at the time it needs to be consumed with the addition of solvents like water, juice, milk and other liquids.