Milk Protein Isolate: What Is, Benefits and Recommendations

Milk protein isolate is a protein supplement extracted from skim milk. You can find it on the ingredient list of different protein supplements, such as a protein bar. Food manufacturers consider it a cost-effective solution to boost protein content without affecting the flavour. It is different from a common milk protein diet, like butter milk protein. Milk protein isolate contains whey proteins and casein in a ratio similar to their ratio in cow’s milk, i.e. 80% casein to 20% whey. Read on to learn more about this supplement, its health benefits and potential downsides. 

What Is Milk Protein Isolate?

Milk protein isolate is a protein extract derived from skim milk. Manufacturers derive it by applying filtering processes which include microfiltration, diafiltration, and ultrafiltration. These processes remove a high value of minerals and lactose. After these, a powder with about 90% protein content is produced. Due to its high casein content, it takes a long time to digest. However, if you take only the whey protein part, it will get absorbed in your body rapidly, boosting the amino acid levels. Remember that the preparation of milk protein isolate differs from casein powder and whey powder. 

Benefits Of Milk Protein Isolate

Milk protein isolate has a number of health benefits. Here’s a look at them.

It leads to a slower and better digestion

When it comes to digesting casein protein-based milk protein, it takes additional time for your body due to the protein’s firmness and changing texture. As a result, your body releases the amino acids slowly and steadily. That’s why it is wise to consume milk protein before going to sleep, as your body will get a constant supply of amino acids while you are not eating for 7-8 hours.

It helps you develop muscle mass

As milk protein isolate has sufficient protein and amino acids, it plays a key role in developing muscle mass. The compound has all nine essential amino acids, which your body cannot produce on its own. Among them, leucine plays a crucial role in initiating muscle protein synthesis. A study conducted among 16 healthy middle-aged men discovered that milk protein boosts muscle development in a pattern resembling that of whey protein [1]. Other studies also suggest that the muscle growth rate stimulated by milk protein is quicker than casein protein, and they continue for a longer period of time than whey protein [2].

It can help you to shed a few kilos

Milk protein isolate is loaded with protein; an essential nutrient your body needs to lose fats. By consuming more protein, you can contribute to the metabolism process and burn extra calories. Besides, milk protein isolate keeps you full for a longer time than other protein sources like whey. As a result, you eat less and do not put on weight. 

It can promote bone growth

Research suggests that consuming milk-based protein on a regular basis can boost your bone density and prevent the decay of bones [3] [4].

It has immunity-boosting anti-inflammatory benefits

As per a review of multiple studies, regular consumption of dairy products has a notable anti-inflammatory impact on people. The participants in the studies either had health issues like metabolic syndrome, obesity and type 2 diabetes or didn’t have any at all [5]. 

Potential Downsides Of Milk Protein Consumption

Though regular intake of milk protein isolate has major benefits, it can cause health issues in people suffering from certain conditions. If one is allergic to cow milk protein, they shouldn’t consume milk protein isolate. Having too much milk protein isolate in your stomach may lead to digestive issues such as flatulence, bloating, nausea, and cramping. Though it has a relatively low amount of lactose, people suffering from lactose intolerance may have uncomfortable side effects while consuming milk protein isolate. Apart from this, the availability of milk protein isolate is a major issue, so you may not find it easily in the market.

Additional Read:  Protein-rich foods

Recommendations For Milk Protein Isolate

Milk protein isolate is a low-cost option that you can easily add to your meals despite its limited availability. It has a neutral flavour, a convenient option for people to add to protein supplements. Common protein supplements where you can add milk protein isolate include soups, cereals, casseroles, smoothies, protein bars, and more. As it digests slowly and keeps you full for a long time, it is better to have it before bedtime or before a time period when you will not consume anything. Drinking one glass of milk protein isolate solution containing 25-50 g (1-2 scoops) of milk protein isolate powder can be a wise choice.

Conclusion

If maintaining a high-protein diet is a part of your health goals, you can make milk diet a part of your meals. You can also take milk nutrition as milk protein isolate for a higher value of protein. To better understand how you can follow a balanced diet, you can get doctor consultation on Bajaj Finserv Health. During consultation, general physician or other specialists registered on the platform would guide you to take the best healthcare measures for yourself. Book a visit today for a better and healthier tomorrow!

FAQs

Is milk protein isolate the same as milk?

No, milk protein isolate and milk are different. While milk contains lactose and fat, milk protein isolate is derived by removing them.

Can consuming milk protein isolate cause bloating?

If the type of milk protein isolate you are using has a high concentration of a certain protein or some lactose, it may cause discomfort like bloating and flatulence in your stomach. In such situations, it is wise to switch to another milk protein isolate supplement after consulting your nutritionist.