If you’re looking for a protein supplement to help you build muscle, recover faster, and enhance your performance, you might want to consider hydrolyzed whey protein. Hydrolyzed whey protein is a type of whey protein that has been broken down into smaller pieces called peptides. This process makes hydrolyzed whey protein powder easier to digest and absorb than regular whey protein, which means it can reach your muscles faster and more efficiently.
In this article, we’ll explain what hydrolyzed whey protein is, how it works, its benefits, and the best-hydrolyzed whey protein products on the market. By the end of this article, you’ll better understand why hydrolyzed whey protein is the best choice for your muscles.
Table of Contents
What is hydrolyzed whey protein?
Whey protein is a by-product of cheese making that contains high-quality protein, amino acids, and other nutrients. You can further process Whey protein into three primary forms: concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate.
Whey protein concentrate contains 25–89% protein and has some carbs, fat, and lactose. Whey protein isolate contains more than 90% protein and is lower in carbs, fat, and lactose than whey protein concentrate. Whey protein hydrolysate is an isolate treated with enzymes or acids to break down the protein into smaller pieces called peptides.
Hydrolyzed whey protein has several advantages over regular whey protein:
- It has a faster digestion and absorption rate, which means it can deliver amino acids to your muscles more quickly and stimulate muscle protein synthesis more effectively.
- It has a lower allergenic potential, which means it can reduce the risk of allergic reactions or gastrointestinal distress in people who are sensitive to lactose or milk proteins.
- It has a higher bioavailability, which means it can be utilized by your body more efficiently, resulting in less nitrogen waste.
How does hydrolyzed whey protein work?
Hydrolyzed whey protein works by providing your muscles with a fast and easy source of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are essential for muscle growth, repair, recovery, and other bodily functions.
When you consume hydrolyzed whey protein, it bypasses the stomach and reaches the small intestine quickly. It’s absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to muscles.
Once hydrolyzed whey protein reaches your muscles, it stimulates muscle protein synthesis (MPS), which creates new muscle tissue from amino acids. Hydrolyzed whey protein inhibits muscle protein breakdown (MPB), which breaks down muscle tissue for energy and strength. MPB is detrimental to muscle mass and strength.
Hydrolyzed whey protein increases MPS and decreases MPB, creating a net balance of muscle protein turnover (MPT), which is the difference between MPS and MPB. A positive MPT means your muscles are growing or maintaining their size and quality. A negative MPT implies that your muscles are shrinking or losing their quality.
What are the benefits of hydrolyzed whey protein?
Hydrolyzed whey protein has several benefits for your health and performance, such as:
- Increasing MPS and MPT can help you build muscle mass and strength.
- It can help you recover faster from exercise by reducing muscle damage and soreness.
- It can help you improve your body composition by increasing fat loss and preserving lean mass.
- It can help you enhance your exercise performance by improving endurance, power, speed, and agility.
- It can help you boost your immune system by modulating inflammation and supporting antioxidant defense.
How to use hydrolyzed whey protein effectively?
To get the most out of your hydrolyzed whey protein supplement, here are some tips to follow:
- Consume it within 30 minutes after your workout to maximize muscle recovery and growth.
- Mix it with water or low-fat milk to enhance its absorption and digestion.
- Add it to your smoothies, shakes, oatmeal, or yogurt for extra protein and flavor.
- Use it as a snack between meals to curb your appetite and boost your metabolism.
- Experiment with different flavors and brands to find the one that suits your taste buds and goals.
11 Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders – Comparison
| Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | Calories | Scoop gms | Fat gms | Carbs gms | Protein gms | Fiber gms | Sugars gms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Protein | 120 | 32 | 1 | 2 | 25 | <1 | 1 |
| Sascha Fitness Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate | 110 | 34 | 0 | <1 | 25 | 0 | 0 |
| Syntha-6 Edge Protein Powder | 160 | 40 | 4 | 6 | 24 | 1 | 2 |
| BulkSupplements Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate | 110 | 30 | <1 | 0 | 26 | 0 | 0 |
| Optimum Nutrition Hydrolyzed Whey | 140 | 39 | 1 | 3 | 30 | 0 | 1 |
| Muscle Feast Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | 114 | 28 | 1.6 | 3 | 23 | 0 | 2.4 |
| Amazing Muscle Ultra Pure Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate | 110 | 30 | 0 | 1 | 25 | 0 | 0 |
| NAR LABS Hydrolyzed Whey | 112 | 30 | 0 | 1 | 27 | 0 | 0 |
| Muscle Food Labs Muscle Isolate Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | 124 | 33 | 0 | 1 | 30 | 1 | 0 |
| VitaXtrong Iso-Pro 100% Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate | 120 | 34 | 0 | 1 | 27 | 0 | 0 |
| Bodybuilding.com Signature, 100% Whey, Isolate | 130 | 33 | 2 | 1 | 25 | 0 | 1 |
These supplements are made from whey protein broken down into smaller peptides, making them easier to digest and absorb. This means they can provide your body with the amino acids it needs more quickly, which can help you achieve your fitness goals faster.
In addition to being effective, hydrolyzed whey protein supplements are also safe and affordable. They are made from natural ingredients and are available in various flavors, so you can find one you enjoy.
Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Protein
Dymatize Hydrolyzed Whey Protein is considered one of the best protein supplements because it tastes great and feels smooth. It consists of 35 grams of protein in each scoop. Athletes need the right amount of protein to help their muscles recover after high-intensity training.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 0.5g
Pros
- It’s low in both fats and carbs
- It contains naturally occurring BCAAs
- It is available for up to 5 pounds
- It comes in a variety of flavors.
Cons
It needs to be blended properly to form a smooth texture.
Sascha Fitness Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
It is a high-quality grass-fed protein powder with an amazing taste that is easy to mix. It also helps in muscle development and supplements your diet. Furthermore, your muscles absorb the protein very quickly. So, it’s the best-hydrolyzed protein powder to improve body composition.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: <1g
- Fat: 0g
Pros
- It contains zero carbs, fat, and sugar
- It contains a high amount of BCAAs to build body mass
- It is available in natural flavor for better taste
Cons
The texture of the powder is chalky
Syntha-6 Edge Protein Powder
It is thought to be the synthesis of high-quality protein and works well for building lean muscle, repairing muscle damage, and growing muscle. You can use it anytime, day or night. It has a real milkshake-like taste and texture. It effectively works for professional bodybuilders to increase muscle mass.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 3.5g
Pros
- It contains a high amount of naturally occurring BCAAs
- It is easy on the stomach
- Mostly positive reviews about its flavor and texture
Cons
- The sugar content is high
BulkSupplements Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
BulkSupplement Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate aids in muscle recovery, supports muscle growth, is a source of BCAAs, and is hydrolyzed to increase absorption. The right amount for mixing is required to make training activities easier.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 122
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: <1g
- Fat: <1g
Pros
- Strongest protein dosage per serving
- Lab-tested for purity and quality
- It does not support fillers or additives
Cons
- No bulk tube is available
Optimum Nutrition Hydrolyzed Whey
This hydrolyzed whey protein supplement has been cleaned, broken down, and improved to help the body as a whole. It is an excellent protein source for post-workout recovery or in between meals. It is also easy to mix and low in calories.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 0.5g
Pros
- Its nutrient profile makes it the best whey hydrolysate for every diet
- It contains a good amount of glutamine peptides
- Easy to mix
Cons
- It does not come in an unflavored option.
Muscle Feast Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
The Grass-fed Hydrolyzed whey protein supports muscle growth and recovery. It also delivers a faster-digesting form of protein. It is more hydrolyzed, meaning it is further broken down, which makes it easier to digest and absorb.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 116
- Protein: 23.5g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 1.7g
Pros
- It contains no artificial flavors, filler, or additives
- It is sourced from grass-fed cows
Cons
- It is not easy to mix in the shaker.
Amazing Muscle Ultra Pure Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate
It is one of the most popular supplements for its lower fat and carb content. In short, it helps keep your macros in order. Furthermore, it is free of soy for those allergic to soy. Due to its smooth texture, it efficiently mixes without a blender.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 0g
Pros
- It is third-party tested for quality and purity
- It mixes well in the shaker
- You can use it for different meals
Cons
- It is restricted to limited flavors.
NAR LABS Hydrolyzed Whey
One of the latest hydrolyzed whey proteins to hit the market is popular among users. It contains a high level of amino acids suitable for regular, high-intensity training. If you belong to the Keto group, it is the best-hydrolyzed whey protein to serve your purpose.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 112
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 0g
Pros
- It is lactose-free
- It added by BCAA components
- It contains a high dose of whey protein
Cons
- Some flavors are not good to taste
Muscle Food Labs Muscle Isolate Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
This protein supplement is highly suitable for CrossFit, resistance, or heavyweight training. It provides 30 grams of protein per serving while maintaining high quality standards.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 124
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 0g
Pros
- It is easy on the stomach
- It does not contain any artificial ingredients
- It contains a high amount of protein per serving
Cons
- It doesn’t have an unflavored option.
VitaXtrong Iso-Pro 100% Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate
It’s a fast-acting hydrolyzed whey isolate containing 27 grams of protein per serving. It’s gluten-free with plenty of available flavors. It has a great taste, is easy to mix, and doesn’t make lumps in the solution.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 116
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 0g
Pros
- You can buy it in bulk bags
- It is both gluten and lactose-free
- It is very easy on the stomach
Cons
- It contains artificial flavors.
Bodybuilding.com Signature, 100% Whey, Isolate
It is a hydrolyzed whey protein isolate that aids in digestion and absorption. It contains amino acids that aid in post-workout muscle growth and recovery. It has gone through the filtering process to remove most fats and lactose.
Nutritional Facts:
- Protein: 25g
- Total carbohydrate: 1g
- Calories: 110
- Total sugar: 1g
Pros
- Fast digestion and absorption
- Aid in recovery and building muscle mass
- Researched backed ingredients
Cons
- It is slightly expensive
Conclusion
Hydrolyzed whey protein is 100% safe to eat and won’t give you stomach aches or other problems in your gut. Also, if you are hypersensitive to lactose, hydrolyzed whey protein works best for you. Lactose, found in traditional whey protein powder, can make people with lactose intolerance feel bloated, crampy, sick, or have diarrhea.
