Protein Powders are NOT all the Same

By Mark Evans, Optimum Nutrition, Nutrition & Education

Truth Unlocked

Not all protein powders are the same – Whey protein is a high-quality protein containing all the essential amino acids you need, but its different forms (whey protein concentrate, isolate, and hydrolyzed whey) vary in purity and macronutrient content.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey prioritizes whey protein isolate – Its high protein content, low fat and lactose content, and rapid absorption make it ideal for supporting muscle growth, repair, and body composition goals. 

When it comes to protein powders, it’s important to know they’re not all created equal. One standout ingredient that comes to mind is whey protein, a high-quality protein derived from milk during the cheese-making process. It contains all the essential amino acids your body needs, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. But did you know there are different types of whey protein?

Type of whey protein:

• Whey Protein Concentrate is the most common form and is typically made up of 70-80% protein by weight, with the rest coming from carbohydrates (mainly lactose) and fats.

• Whey Protein Isolate, on the other hand, undergoes additional filtration to remove most of the carbohydrates (lactose) and fat. This makes it higher in protein content (typically 90% or more) and is also fast digesting. It is a great option for those mindful of their body composition or with digestive sensitivities, as it is lower in lactose compared to other protein sources.

• Hydrolyzed Whey Protein takes it a step further by breaking the protein down into smaller pieces, with no excess carbohydrates or fat.

So why does this matter?

When you consume whey protein, your body uses the amino acids it provides to aid muscle growth and repair. Whey protein isolate, in particular, is a great choice for those seeking great results while reducing any extras.

That’s why Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey includes whey protein isolate as its #1 ingredient. With its high protein content and rapid absorption, it’s trusted by athletes worldwide to fuel their fitness goals. Choose wisely—because not all protein powders are created equal! 

References

1. Hultman, E., et al. (1996) Muscle creatine loading in men. J Appl Physiol (1985), 81(1):232–7. 

2. Kreider, R. B., et al. (2017) International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 18. 

3. Antonio, J., et al. (2021) Common questions and misconceptions about creatine supplementation: what does the scientific evidence really show?. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 18, 13. 

4. Green, A.L., et al. (1996) Carbohydrate ingestion augments skeletal muscle creatine accumulation during creatine supplementation in humans. Am. J. Physiol: 271:821. 

5. Hespel, P., et al. (2001) Oral creatine supplementation facilitates the rehabilitation of disuse atrophy and alters the expression of muscle myogenic factors in humans. J. Physiol. 536:625–33. 

6. Op ’t, E., et al. (2001) Effect of oral creatine supplementation on human muscle GLUT4 protein content after immobilization. Diabetes. 50, 18-23.