Out of all the proteins on the market, and there is a whole lot of them, Optimum Nutritions Gold Standard whey protein is commonly known as the best and consumed worldwide. It is the number one seller on most sites in the UK and the USA, and the most popular is Amazon. But, we are intrigued if it is as great as people say or just famous. And does it deserve the number one spot?
We will dive deeper into the product in this article to tell you information on its nutrition, ingredients, and other extras you may need to know before deciding to purchase this product.
Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein is a dietary supplement from whey protein concentrate isolate. It provides a high-quality protein source supporting muscle building and recovery after exercise.
Nutrition Facts of Optimum Nutrition whey protein:
A rounded scoop of the supplement is a primary serving size, providing a comprehensive nutritional profile. On average, it contains 21 to 24 grams of protein, with slight variations confirmed by independent testing. This little discrepancy in protein content is expected in the supplement industry and is considered negligible. Additionally, the scoop delivers 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fat, and 1 gram of sugar. Optimum Nutrition (ON) is widely recognized for its accuracy and quality and has a good track record with third-party testers. This gives consumers confidence in the product and its nutritional claims.
What ingredients are in ON whey protein:
The ingredients list for a popular product is short, but that is not necessarily bad as the main take you want from whey products is protein.
- Cocoa
- Natural flavours
- artificial flavours
- Lecithin
- Whey protein isolates
- Concentrates
- Peptides
- Aminogen
- Lactase
- Acesulfame potassium
Whey protein contains three primary forms: isolate, concentrate, and peptides. Each of these forms has a unique composition and set of health benefits. Whey protein isolate is known to contain the most protein. Still, the production process removes many other ingredients, such as peptides, contributing to overall health and immunity. On the other hand, whey concentrate is the most economical form of whey protein, but it has a lower protein content and a higher fat content per gram than isolate and peptides. Despite this, it contains potential health benefits, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been linked to weight loss, and phospholipids. Whey peptides are more expensive but more broken down and absorbed quickly; some even refer to them as “pre-digested.”
Each type of whey protein has advantages and disadvantages, and combining all three forms may be the best way to optimize their benefits. By doing so, you can benefit from the high protein content of isolate, the potential health benefits of concentrate, and the fast absorption of peptides. The choice of which form to use ultimately depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Other ingredients included in the supplement are Lecithin, Aminogen, Lactase, and Acesulfame Potassium. Lecithin improves the mixability of the supplement. Aminogen is a blend of enzymes that assist in the digestion of protein and decrease gas. Lactase is added to make lactose easier to digest. Acesulfame Potassium is a sweetener 200 times sweeter than sugar and a controversial ingredient in some circles. Still, it is believed to have no adverse effects in low doses.
The effectiveness and benefits of ON whey protein:
This supplement is designed to offer a comprehensive and well-rounded nutritional profile thanks to the blend of three forms of whey protein. It’s important to note that there isn’t one “best” type of whey, as each structure has unique benefits. Combining these three forms makes for an intelligent product choice by Optimum Nutrition. The high-quality protein in this supplement, which includes Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) and other non-essential amino acids like glutamine, is a significant contributing factor to its benefits.
With its low levels of carbohydrates and fat, this supplement is a good choice for those following low-carb or low-fat diets. The addition of Aminogen and Lactase helps improve digestion, but beyond that, there aren’t many other ingredients included. The product blends different whey proteins with some enzymes to enhance its benefits.
What does it do?
Lifting weights involves inflicting damage on your muscles through small tears in the muscle fibers. This damage then triggers the rebuilding process in your muscles, leading to the development of stronger muscles (hypertrophy).
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey accelerates muscle healing, making you stronger and faster. Providing additional protein also keeps you full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of indulging in unhealthy snacking habits. This helps promote weight loss as it keeps you fueled with nutritious protein, reducing the temptation to consume junk food. It can contribute to a healthier and more balanced diet, helping you reach your fitness goals more efficiently.
Flavours
Optimum Nutrition offers a variety of flavours for its whey protein products. Some of the flavours include:
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
- Cookies & Cream
- Double Rich Chocolate
- Extreme Milk Chocolate
- Mocha Cappuccino
- Rocky Road
- Smooth Banana
- Birthday Cake
- Gold Standard Natural Unflavored
These are just some flavours available, and the exact selection may vary depending on the region and availability. It’s best to check with a local retailer, Optimum Nutrition website, or even Amazon for a complete list of available flavours.
Best time to take whey protein:
When maximizing the benefits of Gold Standard Whey, timing is vital. To promote muscle recovery and weight loss, consuming the product either in the morning or shortly before or after a workout is best. This provides your muscles with the essential nutrients they need to heal and rebuild at the optimal time. Think of it as a direct injection of nutrition into your muscle tissue. This strategy will ensure you fuel your muscles at the right time, leading to faster recovery and growth.
Additionally, it’s important to note that Gold Standard Whey is suitable for vegetarians, making it an accessible option for many individuals.
Amino acids and why they matter:
Understanding amino acids’ role in overall health and wellness is beneficial. Amino acids are the crucial building blocks of protein for proper hormone and neurotransmitter function.
Out of the 20 amino acids our bodies need, some are classified as essential, meaning they must be obtained through our diet. These essential amino acids in protein-rich foods and supplements are crucial in muscle growth and immune function.
You must include essential amino acids to support your fitness goals and overall health. One way to do this is by consuming high-quality whey protein known to contain these essential amino acids. Optimum Nutrition whey has a lot in just one serving!
Conclusion:
ON delivers the goods! With its straightforward, trusted formula, it’s the go-to choice for fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking for quality whey protein powder. Not only is it reliable, but it’s also budget-friendly and delicious. It’s a real standout in the world of supplements, and it’s no wonder it’s often considered the industry leader.
The information on Shapeshift is meant to be educational and informative, but it is not intended to serve as medical advice. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before changing your fitness, nutrition, or supplement regimen, as individual needs for vitamins and minerals vary. The opinions and articles on the site are not meant to diagnose, prevent, or treat any health issues.