Protein Powder Types: Understanding Concentrate, Isolate and Hydrolysate?

Anyone who has shopped for protein powder to help them build muscle and support their weight loss knows that there are a lot of products out there to choose from. In fact, there are so many protein powder types, from so many manufacturers, that it can be downright daunting to even think about how you are going to narrow down your choices to the one that is right for you. That’s why we want to help.

Below is a brief guide to some of the most popular protein powder types. Read through this information to learn about the benefits of each of these protein powder types, as doing so can help you figure out which one is really the one that your body needs most.

Concentrate

According to Men’s Journal, one of the main protein powder options is protein concentrate. This is made through the extraction of protein from whole food ingredients. The extraction involves the use of heat, along with enzymes or acid. The end result is a product that is anywhere from 60-80% protein.

Isolate

With protein isolate, there is an extra filtering process involved in its production. This helps to further remove carbs and fat that you don’t want in your protein powder. What is left behind is an even more concentrated protein, so you can find supplements that will give you anywhere from 90-95% protein in powder form.

Hydrolysate

Finally, there’s protein hydrolysate. Never heard of it? Well, this type of protein is made with even more processing than the other two types on this list. Using heat, enzymes, and/or acid, manufacturers will be able to break down the bonds that are found between amino acids in a protein. The end result is a protein powder that is quickly absorbed into your muscles and your body.

Now that you know about the types of protein powder that are on the market, you can make a more educated choice the next time you’re shopping for a supplement that will help you build and maintain muscle like never before.