We sell a lot of protein powders. Roughly, these can be categorized as dairy proteins and plant-based or vegan proteins.
Dairy proteins are either made up of whey protein, casein protein or a combination of both.
Whey protein is a fast-absorbing protein with a complete amino acid profile. Meaning it contains all essential amino acids. As it releases amino acids to the muscles quickly and contains a high amount of the amino acid Leucine, whey is a great protein to consume around workouts as it will optimally stimulate muscle protein synthesis.
Casein is the most abundant protein found in dairy. This is a slowly absorbing protein that also contains a complet amino acid profile but is a bit lower in Leucine. Casein will release amino acids to the muscles slowly over an extended period (3-6 hours). This makes it a great choice for when you know your next meal wont be for a while. It is also recommended to consume up to 40 grams of casein pre sleep as this stimulates muscle protein synthesis during sleep as you’re not consuming protein while sleeping.
Vegan proteins are moderately fast-absorbing proteins. Most vegan protein sources do not contain a complete amino acid profile. As such, when choosing vegan proteins its important to look for one that does contain a complete amino acid profile or to combine multiple sources so you do end up with a complete protein.
Concentrate, Isolate and Hydrolysate
Protein powders are concentrated sources of protein derived from either animal or plant foods, and these are the three most common forms:
Protein concentrate is the least processed form and usually the cheapest. It contains the most lactose as well as fat and carbohydrates compared to the other two forms. The protein content of a concentrate product usually ranges between 60-80%
Protein Isolate goes through an additional filtering process which leads to a lower content of fats and carbohydrates. This form is also the lowest in lactose, hence it can be an option for individuals sensitive to lactose as it contains little to no lactose. This is the purest form of whey protein, with a protein content as high as 90-95%.
Hydrolyzed protein is the most processed form and is “predigested”, which makes it easier for the body to digest and utilize. The protein content typically ranges between 80-90% and has a slightly higher lactose, fat and carbohydrate content than isolated proteins.