Whey protein isolate (WPI) powder is a highly refined protein supplement made from whey. It is popular with athletes, bodybuilders and those who want to build lean muscle and reduce their recovery times.
Fit Nutrition stocks a wide range of whey protein isolate that can help you meet your fitness goals. Here we’ve selected our top 5 best whey protein isolate Australia has to offer – read on to find the best WPI protein for you.
What is whey protein isolate?
WPI is made from whey – a waste product of the cheese-making process. The liquid whey is filtered, refined and dried to make a powder. This powder contains over 90% protein and is usually mixed into water or other liquid, to make a protein shake. This can be consumed at any time of day, pre or post-workout.
Whey protein isolate vs. whey protein concentrate
Whey protein isolate is more refined than whey protein concentrate, which contains a lower 70 – 80% protein. WPI has less fat, lactose and minerals than whey concentrate, making it more appropriate for those who are looking to lose weight, or who are more sensitive to dairy (although, it is not suitable for anyone with an allergy).
Benefits of WPI
There are many potential benefits of supplementing with WPI. WPI is a complete source of protein and contains all the essential amino acids your body needs. The high protein content can help your body to build muscle and maintain lean muscle mass. It can also aid muscle repair following a workout, and help with recovery. Some studies have also shown that WPI can help with fat loss, by reducing your appetite, supporting your metabolism and regulating your blood sugar levels, so you avoid energy crashes and cravings.
Top 5 best whey protein isolate
Evolve WPI by Evolve
Topping our list of the best whey protein isolate is Evolve WPI. This fast-absorbing powder is one of the highest-quality protein sources on the market and is ideal for increasing your muscle mass and improving muscle recovery. Ideal for both men and women, Evolve WPI contains 35g of ultra-refined whey protein isolate – the joint highest per serve of any of the best WPI proteins on our list. The formula also has 1.8g of carbohydrates, less than 1g of sugar and fat, and is low in dairy and lactose. Take this an hour before a workout to fuel your body, or afterwards, to assist with muscle repair. You can take up to 3 serves a day, mixed into water or milk.
R1 Protein by Rule 1
We think the next best WPI protein Australia has to offer is R1 Protein. This popular supplement contains a blend of whey protein isolates and hydrolysed whey protein to promote protein synthesis and maximise muscle recovery. If you’re looking to lose weight, you might like to know this option contains zero fat and sugar. With only 110 calories per serve, in comparison to the 155 calories of Evolve WPI, this is some of the best whey protein isolate powder for weight loss. R1 Protein is gluten-free and available in a wide range of flavours, including Chocolate Peanut Butter, Red Velvet and Banana.
Protein by Muscle Nation
Muscle Nation’s Protein contains 100% whey protein isolate, to promote muscle growth and repair. However, this formula also contains an electrolyte blend, including sodium and potassium, designed to further aid your recovery. In addition to this, 7.4g of BCAAs and 5.6g of glutamine further enhance muscle protein synthesis and repair. There’s also Digezyme®, a digestive enzyme blend to help your body absorb the protein and get the most out of the supplement. Ideal for dessert lovers, this protein is available in a multitude of sweet flavours, including Salted Caramel, Cookies and Cream, and Cinnamon Churros – which taste deliciously accurate.
Amino Charged WPI by International Protein
Suitable for bodybuilders and high-performance athletes, Amino Charged WPI has a larger serving size of 40g – an impressive 35g of which is grass-fed whey protein isolate, to help you gain mass fast. The formula is naturally high in bioactive whey peptides to help protein muscle synthesis and immunoglobulin proteins for immune support. A high concentration (24-25%) of BCAAs, alongside added arginine and naturally-fermented glutamine, ensure advanced amino recovery following your workouts. This Australian-made product is ideal whether you’re in a deficit, maintaining weight or building mass. Flavours include Caramel Popcorn and Turkish Delight.
Gold Standard 100% Isolate by Optimum Nutrition
Our final pick of the best whey protein isolate is Gold Standard 100% Isolate by Optimum Nutrition. Each scoop contains 25g of WPI to boost your protein intake and help you hit your macros. To improve your recovery, the formula boasts 11.4g of essential amino acids, including 5.5g of essential BCAAs, and 4.3g of glutamine. Optimum Nutrition uses a sophisticated separation process to remove excess fat and sugars – leaving only 0.4 g of fat and 0.3 g of sugar remaining. The total calorie content per 30g serving of this WPI is just 111 calories, making this another one of the best WPIs for weight loss. Be aware that artificial flavourings and sweeteners are used to create the flavours, which include Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry.
FAQs
What is the best WPI protein powder?
In our opinion, the best WPI Australia has to offer is Evolve WPI. This fast-absorbing protein powder gives you a whopping 35g of ultra-refined whey protein isolate per serve and is perfect for building lean muscle.
What is the best whey protein isolate powder for weight loss?
Some studies have shown that WPI can help you lose weight, by boosting your metabolism and reducing your appetite. We think the best WPI for weight loss is R1 Protein by R Rule. It contains a low 110 calories per serve, whilst still giving you a good 25g of protein, which will help regulate your blood sugar and leave you feeling fuller longer.
When should I take WPI?
You can take whey protein isolate at any time of day to boost your protein intake – however, we recommend taking it an hour before exercise, or immediately post-workout, to help with muscle recovery. Make sure not to exceed the recommended daily dose.
Does WPI have any side effects?
In those with a low tolerance to lactose, WPI supplements can cause gastronomical upset, including bloating, gas and diarrhoea. High doses of whey protein can also cause side effects such as acne, tiredness and headaches.
Is whey protein isolate suitable for vegans?
No, WPI is derived from milk, so it is not suitable for vegans. Check out our range of vegan-friendly protein for plant-based alternatives.