A complete guide to protein types: concentrated, isolate, hydrolysed... which one to choose?

Introduction

When we talk about dietary supplements for athletesprotein powder remains one of the most widely used products. But between concentratedwhey , isolate, hydrolyzed, casein or vegetable proteinsit's not always easy to find your way around.
This guide explains the different types of protein, their advantages and disadvantages, and who they are best suited to.

 

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1.Whey Concentrate

Concentrated whey is the most economical and economical form form of whey protein.

Benefits

• Affordable price
  
  

• Approximately 70-80% protein per serving
  
  

• Creamy taste, good texture
  
  

• Excellent for weight gain
  
  

Disadvantages

• Contains more lactose, fat and carbohydrates than other forms
  
  

• May cause digestive disorders in lactose-sensitive people
  
  

🔎 Ideal for :

• Beginners
  
  

• Non-lactose intolerant people
  
  

• Target weight gain on a limited budget
  
  

 

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2.Whey Isolate

whey isolate is further filtered → the result is a purer, more concentrated powder concentrated powder.

Benefits

• 90% protein on average
  
  

• Low in fats and sugars
  
  

• Very low in lactose (better tolerated)
  
  

• Fast absorption → perfect after training
  
  

Disadvantages

• Higher price than whey concentrate
  
  

• Texture sometimes more fluid, taste less creamy
  
  

🔎 Ideal for :

• Demanding athletes
  
  

• Objective weight loss
  
  

• Mild lactose intolerance
  
  

 

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3. Hydrolyzed Whey

Hydrolyzed whey is a form of isolate isolate through enzymatic hydrolysis.

Benefits

• Digestion ultra-fast
  
  

• Very low in lactose
  
  

• Almost immediate peak absorption → ideal for intensive post-training
  
  

• Less risk of digestive discomfort
  
  

Disadvantages

• High prices
  
  

• A sometimes bitter taste
  
  

• Not very useful for occasional users
  
  

🔎 Ideal for :

• Top athletes
  
  

• People with very sensitive digestion
  
  

• Objective : optimized recovery
  
  

 

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4. Casein Protein

Casein is the other protein found in milk, but it is absorbed slowly (6-8h).

Benefits

• Gradual release of amino acids
  
  

• Ideal before bedtime to avoid nocturnal catabolism
  
  

• Excellent feeling of satiety
  
  

Disadvantages

• Slower digestion
  
  

• Less suitable just after training
  
  

🔎 Ideal for :

• Objective: muscle maintenance during fasting (night)
  
  

• People who want to control their appetite
  
  

 

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5. Plant proteins (peas, rice, hemp, soy)

An alternative for vegetarians, vegans or people with lactose intolerance.

Benefits

• Lactose-free
  
  

• Rich in fiber and micronutrients
  
  

• Multi-source blends = complete amino acid profile
  
  

Disadvantages

• Taste sometimes earthier / thicker
  
  

• Less natural BCAAs than whey (except soy)
  
  

Ideal for :

• Vegan or vegetarian athletes
  
  

• Lactose-intolerant people
  
  

• Those looking for a greener option
  
  

 

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Quick protein comparison

 

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Conclusion

The choice of protein depends on your goal, your budget and your digestive tolerance :

• Whey concentrate economical and effective → perfect for beginners.
  
  

• Whey isolate purity, digestibility → top for dry or lactose-intolerant people.
  
  

• HydrolyzedWhey : high-level recovery → useful for athletes.
  
  

• Casein slow protein → ideal at night.
  
  

• Plant proteins vegan option, healthy alternative.
  
  

To sum up : no "absolute best" proteinbut a protein adapted to each profile and each objective.