hydrolyzed protein for humans

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

Hydrolyzed protein

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Solution derived from the hydrolysis of a protein into its component amino acids and peptides

Hydrolyzed protein is a solution derived from the hydrolysis of a protein into its component amino acids and peptides. While many means of achieving this exist, most common is prolonged heating with hydrochloric acid,^[1] sometimes with an enzyme such as pancreatic protease to simulate the naturally occurring hydrolytic process.

Protein hydrolysis is a useful route to the isolation of individual amino acids.^[1]^[2] Examples include cystine from hydrolysis of hair,^[3] tryptophane from casein,^[4] histidine from red blood cells,^[5] and arginine from gelatin.^[6]

Common hydrolyzed products used in food are hydrolyzed vegetable protein and yeast extract, which are used as flavor enhancers because the hydrolysis of the protein produces free glutamic acid. Some hydrolyzed beef protein powders are used for specialized diets.^[7]

Protein hydrolysis can be used to modify the allergenic properties of infant formula. Reducing the size of cow milk proteins in the formula makes it more suitable for consumption by babies suffering from milk protein intolerance. The US FDA has approved a label for this usage of partially-hydrolyzed proteins in 2017,^[8] but a meta-analysis published the same year shows insufficient evidence for this use.^[9]

Hydrolyzed protein is also used in certain specially formulated hypoallergenic pet foods, notably dog foods for dogs and puppies that suffer from allergies caused by certain protein types in standard commercial dog food brands. The protein contents of the foods are split into peptides which reduces the likelihood for an animal's immune system recognizing an allergic threat. Hydrolyzed protein diets for cats are often recommended for felines with food allergies and certain types of digestive issues.^[10]

References[edit]

^ ^a ^b Drauz, Karlheinz; Grayson, Ian; Kleemann, Axel; Krimmer, Hans-Peter; Leuchtenberger, Wolfgang; Weckbecker, Christoph (2006). "Amino Acids". Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH. doi:10.1002/14356007.a02_057.pub2. ISBN978-3527306732.
^ Silverman, S.N.; Phillips, A.A.; Weiss, G.M.; Wilkes, E.B.; Eiler, J.M.; Sessions, A.L. (2022). "Practical considerations for amino acid isotope analysis". Organic Geochemistry. 164: 104345. Bibcode:2022OrGeo.16404345S. doi:10.1016/j.orggeochem.2021.104345. S2CID245556854.
^ Gortner, R. A.; Hoffman, W. F. (1925). "l-Cystine". Organic Syntheses. 5: 39. doi:10.15227/orgsyn.005.0039.
^ Cox, G.J.; King, H. (1930). "L-Tryptophane". Org. Synth. 10: 100. doi:10.15227/orgsyn.010.0100.
^ Foster, G. L.; Shemin, D. (1938). "L-Histidine Monohydrochloride". Organic Syntheses. 18: 43. doi:10.15227/orgsyn.018.0043.
^ Brand, E.; Sandberg, M. (1932). "d-Arginine Hydrochloride". Org. Synth. 12: 4. doi:10.15227/orgsyn.012.0004.
^ Sharp, Matthew; Shields, Kevin; Lowery, Ryan; Lane, Jason; Partl, Jeremy; Holmer, Chase; Minevich, Julie; Souza, Eduardo De; Wilson, Jacob (September 21, 2015). "The effects of beef protein isolate and whey protein isolate supplementation on lean mass and strength in resistance trained individuals - a double blind, placebo controlled study". Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 12 (Suppl 1): P11. doi:10.1186/1550-2783-12-S1-P11. PMC4595383.
^ Labeling of Infant Formula: Guidance for Industry U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2016) Accessed 11 December 2017.
^ Boyle RJ, Ierodiakonou D, Khan T, Chivinge J, Robinson Z, Geoghegan N, Jarrold K, Afxentiou T, Reeves T, Cunha S, Trivella M, Garcia-Larsen V, Leonardi-Bee J (March 2016). "Hydrolysed formula and risk of allergic or autoimmune disease: systematic review and meta-analysis". BMJ. 352: i974. doi:10.1136/bmj.i974. PMC4783517. PMID26956579.
^ Cave, Nicholas J. (November 2006). "Hydrolyzed Protein Diets for Dogs and Cats". Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 36 (6): 12511268. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2006.08.008. PMID17085233.

10 Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders (2024) Buyer's Guide

Last updated: March 23, 2024

During my early days as a certified fitness trainer, my deeper exploration into sports nutrition revealed the diverse methods behind protein powder production.

My go-to options were protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Still, when I started working with a dietitian, it quickly became apparent that hydrolyzed whey protein may be the better option for many of my clients.

Our team has extensively tested some of the more popular protein powder products over the past four months, to reveal what makes these powders stand out among the rest?

Read on and discover the secret to unlocking your ultimate fitness potential.

The Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders

Our Top Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders (April 2024)

1 - Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Protein (Best Overall, Gluten-Free and BCAA Rich)

Calories : 120
Protein : 25g
Carbs : 2g
Fat : 0.5g

Pros and Cons

Pros

Low in fat and carbs to not mess up your diet
Provides good supply of BCAAs
Tubs can be ordered up to 5 pounds for good discounts
Available in tasty flavors for more diversity

Cons

May need to be blended for the smoothest texture

Dymatize ISO 100 was a dependable hydrolyzed whey protein supplement during my hands-on testing phase. Many of my clients consistently praised its taste and texture. It also ranks high in our list of recommended whey proteins.

The whey protein isolate content of 25 grams in each scoop is just right for most athletes to get some help with muscle recovery after some tougher training sessions [1].

While it does contain some carbs, its low enough not to pose issues for your diet.

2 - Sascha Fitness Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate (Best Low-Carb)

Calories : 110
Protein : 25g
Carbs : less than 1g
Fat : 0g

Pros and Cons

Pros

Practically zero carbs, sugar and fat so it shouldnt interfere with diets
High dose of BCAAs that may help increase body mass
Uses natural flavors for a tastier shake

Cons

Some users report a slightly chalky texture

Based on my observations, this hydrolyzed whey protein shake is a prime choice for those on a keto regimen due to its impressively low carb content. It just makes it a bit easier to keep track of your macro allowances for the day.

For performance athletes, theres also a good profile of BCAAs, amino acids that may help build up some body mass in a bulking phase [2].

Its also good to see that all whey protein isolate ingredients are natural to give it a better flavor.

We did hear from some of our clients that they found the protein powder just a little bit chalky at times, so make sure you give it an extra bit of a shake.

3 - Syntha-6 Edge Protein Powder (Best Tasting)

Calories : 150
Protein : 24g
Carbs : 6g
Fat : 3.5g

Pros and Cons

Pros

One of the higher BCAA doses available
Many reports that it doesnt cause an upset stomach
Positive comments about the flavors and smooth texture

Cons

Its not a sugar-free option

While speaking with professional bodybuilders, BSN's whey protein powder frequently emerged due to its high-quality ingredients and meticulous manufacturing process.

Syntha-6 Edge has proven easy on the stomach in higher doses, as confirmed by my team and clients, making it suitable for those with digestive sensitivities.

This product seems to have an excellent amino acid profile, especially regarding BCAA in whey protein.

It's also rated as one of our recommended whey protein powders when mixed with water.

The main downside is that its not as pure as some of the other protein powder options. The fat and carb content may not make it a suitable option for certain types of diets.

4 - BulkSupplements Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate (Best Protein-Rich)

Calories : 122
Protein : 27g
Carbs : less than 1g
Fat : less than 1g

Pros and Cons

Pros

One of the strongest whey protein isolate per serving dose
Independently tested for purity and quality
Contains no fillers or additives

Cons

Only available in quite small pouches with no bulk tubs available

This hydrolyzed whey protein isolate is favored by several of my bodybuilder clients because of the higher protein dose in each serving.

It just makes mixing up the right amount of whey protein isolate after a training session a bit easier.

The company also claims that there are no fillers or additives that might otherwise mess up your diet.

That seems to be supported by the low fat and carb content.

My main concern with this is that the protein powder pouches are currently only available in quite small sizes. If you train every day of the week, then this whey protein product may not be the best option for you.

5 - Optimum Nutrition Hydrolyzed Whey (Best for Recovery)

Calories : 110
Protein : 25g
Carbs : 1g
Fat : 0.5g

Pros and Cons

Pros

The whey protein isolate macro profile makes it a suitable option for the majority of diets
Provides a good dose of glutamine peptides
Comes in tasty and easy to mix flavors

Cons

Not available as an unflavored option

Drawing from my extensive experience with sports supplements, I noticed that Optimum Nutrition stands out not just as a leading brand but also for its low-calorie protein powder. Many clients, including me, have noticed its exceptional mixability, ensuring no gritty residue.

Personally, thats important to me as I dislike ending up with something clumpy out of a protein powder shaker.

According to the label, this whey protein powder also contains glutamine peptides that some studies have shown may reduce fatigue and speed up recovery times [3].

The only downside we noted was that this protein supplement isnt available as an unflavored option, which could make it easier to mix with food.

6 - Muscle Feast Hydrolyzed Whey Protein (Best Grass-Fed)

Calories : 116
Protein : 23.5g
Carbs : 3g
Fat : 1.7g

Pros and Cons

Pros

No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or additives
The unflavored option makes it a good choice to mix in with meals
Sourced from grass-fed cows to reduce the risk of hormone exposure

Cons

Its not the easiest to mix in a shaker

The reason I tend to stock some of this best hydrolyzed whey protein isolate is that it comes in an unflavored option, which might make it easier to mix in with some other foods throughout the day.

The other thing that stands out with Muscle Feast whey protein isolate is that the protein is isolated from grass-fed cows.

This is known to deliver higher quality with less of a risk of taking in some harmful hormones.

The only thing to keep in mind is that you may need to give it quite a long shake in order to make the whey protein isolate powder fully dissolve.

7 - Amazing Muscle Ultra Pure Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate

Calories : 110
Protein : 25g
Carbs : 1g
Fat : 0g

Pros and Cons

Pros

Batches are third-party tested for quality
Many reports that it mixes easily in a shaker
Suitable for use in different meals

Cons

Limited flavors available which reduces diversity

Heres another one of the whey protein powders that is popular because its not loaded with fat and carbs to help you keep your macros in order. It's also a soy-free protein powder.

This whey protein isolate is also available as unflavored, which I tend to mix in with my breakfast.

But even for a protein powder shake, I find that it generally mixes easily without needing a blender to get a smooth texture.

The company also claims that each protein powder batch is independently tested to ensure high-quality standards.

The only thing I would point out, though, is that there are quite limited whey protein powder flavor options available. Personally, I tend to get bored with flavors easily, so a few more options would be great.

8 - NAR LABS Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate (Best Budget-Friendly)

Calories : 112
Protein : 27g
Carbs : 1g
Fat : 0g

Pros and Cons

Pros

Provides a strong dose of whey protein and practically nothing else
Suitable for people with lactose intolerance
Formulated with added BCAAs (amino acids)

Cons

Some of the flavors are a bit fake tasting

This is one of the latest whey protein isolate products to hit the market, and some of my clients like it because of the high amino acid content.

With 27 grams in total, it may be suitable for those doing regular high-intensity training.

With no fat and carbs only in the form of fiber, its one of the whey protein products that I often see recommended in keto diet groups.

With the added BCAAs, this protein powder is also likely to be a suitable option for many performance athletes.

One thing I did see quite a few comments about is that due to some artificial flavors, it might be a bit fake tasting on some of the whey protein powder flavor options.

9 - Muscle Food Labs Muscle Isolate Hydrolyzed Whey Protein

Calories : 124
Protein : 30g
Fat : 0g
Carbs : 0g

Pros and Cons

Pros

The strongest per serving dose we were able to find
Not mixed with any artificial ingredients
Many positive reviews that its easy on the stomach

Cons

Its just missing an unflavored option

This hydrolyzed whey protein tends to be quite popular with my clients that do a lot of CrossFit and resistance training with very heavy weights.

We werent able to find another product offering 30 grams of protein per serving with high-quality standards.

While the whey protein flavors are tasty and easy to mix, Im just missing an unflavored option to use with other meals as well.

10 - VitaXtrong Iso-Pro 100% Hydrolyzed Whey Isolate

Calories : 116
Protein : 27g
Carbs : 1g
Fat : 0g

Pros and Cons

Pros

Claims to be very easy on the stomach allowing you to take it several times a day
Lactose and gluten-free makes it more widely suitable
Can be ordered in large bulk bags for some good savings

Cons

Unfortunately, it does contain artificial flavors

The final product on this best hydrolized whey protein powder list is from VitaXtrong, and Ive seen a lot of comments that support the companys claim that its easy on the stomach.

None of my clients reported issues, even when taking larger daily doses. Probably because it's a gluten and lactose-free protein powder.

If you tend to have quite large whey protein requirements, then this could be a suitable option as its available in large bulk order bags.

The main downside of this whey protein powder is that it partially relies on artificial flavors and might end up tasting a bit fake to some users.

How We Picked the Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders

In our comprehensive evaluation of hydrolyzed whey protein powders, my team and I focused on several key factors to ensure optimal quality and effectiveness:

Protein content. Dymatize ISO 100 was notable for its high protein content, offering 25 grams per serving. This concentration is beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts as it aids in muscle recovery and growth. The high protein content, combined with hydrolyzation, makes it an efficient choice for post-workout nutrition, facilitating quicker absorption and utilization by the body.
Digestibility and side effects. For four weeks, we focused on the digestibility of these proteins. Given their pre-digested form, hydrolyzed proteins generally offer better digestibility and fewer side effects. We conducted tolerance tests and monitored any adverse effects to ensure the products were gentle on the digestive system.
Ingredients quality. Over a two-month period, we scrutinized the ingredient lists of each product. Our priority was to find products with natural, high-quality ingredients and minimal additives. This ensured a cleaner and more beneficial protein source. We employed lab tests and expert consultations to verify the quality of the ingredients.
Flavor and taste. We sampled various flavors, noting their palatability and mixability. Our team conducted blind taste tests and gathered feedback to evaluate the overall appeal of the flavors. Products that offered a range of appealing flavors without compromising on health benefits were highly rated.

Buyers Guide for the Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powders

There are 3 important factors that you need to consider before you make decisions on which product to buy. And its these factors that we heavily relied on to determine whether a product made it onto our list or not.

Amount Of Whey Protein Per Serving

The bigger your overall muscle size is and the more intense you train, the more youll be reliant on a large volume of whey protein per day.

For that reason, its important to have a good picture of how much protein you get with each scoop.

The whey protein source might be something to consider, too. Typically, there is higher protein content per serving in whey vs plant-based protein powders.

Its also a vital factor when comparing the prices of different products. Some companies out there make a big deal out of how many servings they provide while making it less obvious that its quite a small scoop size. So keep that in mind.

Overall Macro Combination

My first tip is to avoid whey protein powder products with more than 5 or 6 grams of carbs. Unless its mainly dietary fiber, youll find that its most often some added sugar or other completely unnecessary carbs.

What this could end up doing is completely messing with your diet, especially if youre on a very carb-restricted meal plan. In my opinion, a protein supplement should be as pure as possible, and there really is no excuse to do otherwise.

Quality Vs. Cost

One mistake many people make is they start to increase their whey protein powder intake and then decide to save by getting some of the cheaper products out there or making their own protein powder at home. In some cases, that could actually have a less than beneficial effect.

This is because muscle protein synthesis depends on high-quality amino acids that have not been damaged during the manufacturing process [4]. Dont let price become too big a deciding factor when picking hydrolyzed whey protein powder products.

If you're really on a tight budget, whey protein concentrates will work, but isolates are the most preferred type of milk protein for building muscle- Bodybuilding.com

FAQ

Is Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Better?

Yes, hydrolyzed whey protein is better than whey protein concentrate. The former's manufacturing process makes it easier on the stomach and possibly faster to absorb, which is especially beneficial to performance athletes who may need to take large quantities.

What Does Hydrolyzed Mean in Whey Protein?

"Hydrolyzed" in whey protein means that the whey has gone through the enzymatic hydrolysis" process, wherein the amino acids have been broken down into smaller segments for easier digestion.

Is Hydrolyzed Protein Safe?

Yes, hydrolyzed protein is safe. In fact, it significantly reduces the chances of side effects because it's easier to digest. While your digestive system is quite effective in absorbing whey protein, it could become overwhelmed with large volumes of protein shakes.

What Happens When a Whey Protein Is Hydrolyzed?

When a whey protein is hydrolyzed, it is exposed to enzymes that gradually break down the protein molecules. Rather than using heat, which may actually break down the amino acid structure, this process aims to maintain its integrity and effectiveness.

Our Verdict on the Best Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Powder

We had a quick vote after we completed our test and we all agreed Dymatize ISO 100 is our top hydrolyzed whey protein pick.

This whey protein offers limited fat and carbs. With 25 g of protein in each scoop, BCAAs are included in the formula aiding in muscle recovery.

All our clients who take it also reported that they liked the flavor options available to them as there is more than one. Get your order in today, and report back to us on how it works for you.

Our #1 Recommendation

Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolyzed Protein (Best Overall, Gluten-Free and BCAA Rich)

Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System

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