Whey protein isolate - Athlete's key weapon for muscle growth

March 27, 2025

Whey protein isolate is a milk-based protein that is used, among other things, as a sports supplement. It is also one of the most popular supplements, as studies have shown that it promotes muscle growth, prevents muscle loss and speeds up recovery. It is also a great addition to the diet of dieters, weight control and the elderly, as it keeps you full and helps maintain muscle mass.

Whey protein brings strength and muscle mass

Whey protein is a protein obtained as a by-product of cheese production, which is a great supplement for all athletes and dieters. It gives athletes strength and increases muscle mass. The amino acid composition of whey protein is ideal for people who exercise. Amino acids are important for humans, because without them, the body's essential functions function inadequately.

The human body is able to produce some of the amino acids itself, but nine of them must be obtained from food. Proteins are made up of amino acids, which in turn help athletes recover from sports performance and hard training.

Whey protein has been found to contain a large amount of several amino acids, making it a popular dietary supplement among athletes. Whey protein is considered a so-called “complete” protein, as it contains all the amino acids that are important for the body and that the body cannot produce on its own. It is particularly rich in leucine, which promotes protein synthesis. Since exercise causes both protein breakdown and protein growth, sufficient protein intake after sports performance is important for both muscle function and recovery. Both fitness athletes and endurance athletes need good quality protein for recovery.

The muscles benefit most from recovery proteins when they are consumed immediately after exercise. The amino acids in whey protein are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and are therefore effectively available to the muscles. Whey protein consumed immediately after exercise thus speeds up recovery and promotes muscle mass growth. For athletes, the most important function of whey protein is to build muscle mass. Whey protein is a fast-acting protein that is effectively absorbed by the human body.

However, whey protein is not just for bodybuilders. Whey protein is also a good addition to the diet for dieters and weight watchers. Protein slows down digestion, which increases the feeling of satiety. When protein is combined with a carbohydrate source, it helps to keep you full for a long time. Getting enough protein during weight loss is important so that muscle mass is not broken down as an energy source when energy intake decreases. Older people should also prefer whey protein, as it helps maintain muscle mass during the aging process.

Different forms of whey protein - and why protein isolate is optimal

Whey comes from milk, which may cause stomach and digestion problems, or bloating for some people. If this sound familiar, you should try its different forms.

Whey protein is available in three different forms, which are produced with different types and degrees of processing. All forms can be purchased separately as a supplement.

The most common form of whey protein is whey concentrate, which has more lactose than, for example, whey isolate. Typically, the protein content of whey concentrate is 70-80%. Isolate may be better suited to people with more sensitive stomachs than concentrate.

Whey protein isolate is whey protein that has been further processed than concentrate. Whey isolate has been processed so that more lactose and fat have been removed from it than concentrate. This increases the protein content of whey isolate and is usually up to 90-100%. Due to the almost non-existent lactose content, whey protein isolate may be better suited to many people than concentrate. Whey isolate therefore has a higher protein content and a lower amount of fat and carbohydrates, and is slightly more expensive.

The third form of whey protein is whey hydrolysate. It is processed into smaller peptides that are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and promote protein synthesis, or muscle growth, faster than free amino acids. This is generally the most expensive form of whey protein.

So - whey protein isolate is the optimal form for most individuals, as it absorbs well, contains increased protein content with much less lactose with only slightly added cost. It could be said that the price-quality-ratio is quite excellent.

Using whey protein isolate

Whey protein and protein powders can be used in many different ways, but by far the most common way is to use it as a recovery drink. Whey protein powder is usually mixed with water or, for example, milk in a shaker bottle.

The general guideline is to mix 1 scoop of whey protein into suitable amount water or milk. One serving of whey protein is approximately 25 grams. The recommended amount of use is one to two servings per day. Whey protein should not be considered the main source of protein, but rather a supplement to support a varied diet.

In addition to liquid, whey protein can also be added to porridge or smoothies or made into protein curd. Whey protein powder can also be used in baking or cooking, and it is currently trendy to use whey protein in various recipes.

What are the benefits of whey protein compared to other protein sources?

Whey protein stands out for its rapid absorption compared to other protein sources such as casein, soy protein and vegan proteins. Unlike casein, which is absorbed slowly and is best consumed in the evening, whey protein is absorbed quickly and is therefore perfect for post-workout recovery.

Compared to soy protein, whey protein has a higher bioavailability and is rich in essential amino acids, making it a complete protein and more effective for muscle growth. Compared to vegan proteins such as pea or rice protein, whey protein often contains more leucine, an important amino acid for protein synthesis.

In general, due to the careful filtration process, whey isolate is slightly more expensive than concentrate, but whey isolate is the optimal option when you want a lot of fast-absorbing protein around your workout, but want to reduce fat and calories.

You can find high-quality, all natural whey protein isolate powder from AMONAS:

Chocolate - Amonas Chocolate Bliss 100% Whey Protein Isolate Powder - 18g