Whey protein isolate is a collective term for various protein components retained in the supernatant after adjusting the pH of cow's milk to 4.6 to remove casein. It mainly includes β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, glycomacropeptides, and bioactive factors, with a protein content ≥90%. Separation processes include isoelectric point precipitation, salting out, organic solvent precipitation, aqueous two-phase extraction, reverse micelle extraction, and ion exchange chromatography. Ion exchange chromatography purifies proteins by adsorbing oppositely charged proteins onto resin.

Application

Promotes muscle synthesis and repair: Rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), especially leucine, which can directly activate the mTOR signaling pathway and stimulate muscle protein synthesis, suitable for fitness, post-operative muscle maintenance, or muscle strengthening in old age.

Enhances immune function: Contains active ingredients such as immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, which help improve macrophage activity, promote lymphocyte proliferation, and reduce the risk of infection.

Aids weight management: High satiety and high thermic effect of food can reduce subsequent food intake; some studies show that replacing part of the staple food can help with healthy weight loss.

Regulates blood sugar metabolism: Glycomaphatide (GMP) can stimulate GLP-1 secretion, delay gastric emptying, and help control postprandial blood sugar fluctuations.

Antioxidant effects: Provides cysteine, as a precursor to glutathione (an important antioxidant), which helps scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

Supports bone health: Contains minerals such as calcium and phosphorus; long-term moderate intake helps prevent osteoporosis.