One of the most essential supplements for any athlete is protein, especially for those who don’t get enough protein in their daily diet. There are certain benefits of whey protein over other types of protein supps, and that’s why it’s the most preferred protein supplement among fitness communities worldwide.
The quality of the whey powder is essential to achieve your fitness goals, whether building a mass or staying lean. Of all the whey protein brands available, there is a reason (actually, there are several) why Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey is the gold standard. Here’s everything you need to know about this potent whey powder.
Why is Optimum Nutrition So Good?
As one of the most well-known sports nutrition companies worldwide, the #1 whey brand Optimum Nutrition has a history of excellence and reliability dating back to its founding in 1986 in Downers Grove, Illinois, US. The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100 Whey™ has created its legacy in the history of sports nutrition by continuously adapting to new scientific and technological discoveries and by keeping an open ear to the needs of its clients.
Their whey powder is the most praised, most awarded, and best-selling protein powder. As a result of its recognisable quality and consistency, it stands out from the competition and is a symbol of a quality whey supplement everywhere in the world.
Brief History of Gold Standard 100 Whey™
The gold standard wasn’t always the golden standard. Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein™ has undergone significant evolution over the years. Originally known as 100% Whey Protein, it contained 21 grams of Whey Protein Concentrate (WPC) per serving. As consumer demand for more protein grew, it increased to 22 grams per serving.
The blend transitioned to include concentrates and isolates with the availability of whey protein isolates, later prioritising Isolates due to their popularity. Also, whey protein hydrolysates, in the form of HydroWheyTM, were added to enhance the product’s quality and purity. Today, it contains 24 grams of protein per serving. To distinguish itself as the top choice among discerning consumers worldwide, it became known as Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein™.
3 Reasons Why You Should Choose Optimum Nutrition 100 Whey Gold Standard
1. It’s 100% Pure Protein
This protein formula contains a blend of pure whey protein, including whey protein isolate, concentrate, and hydrolysed whey protein. Whey protein isolate is the purest form, with over 90% protein by weight, while whey protein concentrate has about 80% protein with some fats and milk nutrients. Hydrolysed whey protein is partially digested for easier absorption.
The product contains 100% whey protein powder without unnecessary fillers. Secondary ingredients include natural and artificial flavours, lecithin (soy or sunflower), acesulfame potassium, and sucralose. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein, including 5.5 grams of BCAAs. The carb content ranges from 2 to 5 grams per serving, depending on the flavour. Note that ingredients may vary slightly between flavours.
2. It Blends Easily
When added to water or another liquid, most whey protein powders frequently clump together and are difficult to mix or dissolve. The instant powder used by Gold Standard combines quickly. That’s accomplished by including an emulsifier, or instantiating agent, in the formula; in this case, lecithin extracted from soy or sunflower. In contrast to other powders, this one combines and dissolves easily in liquids like milk, water, and other foods.
3. Less Bloating and Gas
No matter how pure and filtered whey protein is, it must contain some lactose because it comes from milk. The concentrate has a higher percentage of lactose than the isolate, which has the least. Due to lactose sensitivity, some people may experience gas, bloating, and other digestive problems.
For some people, even trace levels of lactose can be problematic, making it difficult for them to locate a product that is effective for them. ON’s Gold Standard whey protein is gentler on the stomach and less likely to produce gas and bloating thanks to the hydrolysed whey protein in the mix.
How to Use Whey Protein?
Whey is complicated but using it doesn’t have to be. Because Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% WheyTM is instantised, mixing it with a spoon or shaker cup is simple. However, several ways can improve it, including boosting, combining, baking, cooking, and more. You can strengthen the Gold Standard by mixing it with substances other than water to improve flavour and texture. For instance, you can combine it with juice, milk, soy milk, almond milk, and more.
Additionally, you can add healthy ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, berries, greens, oats, nuts, seeds, yoghurt, honey, and others to the mixture. Incorporate ON’s Whey Protein into favourite dishes, routine mealtime recipes, and baked products to cook and bake with it. Make protein yours by using it as you like!
When to Use Whey Protein?
Around Physical Activity
Consume a mix of carbohydrates and protein 2-4 hours before activity. As you get closer to the activity, focus more on carbohydrates. Afterwards, take a balance of protein and carbohydrates for muscle recovery. Whey protein shakes are convenient when time or digestion is a concern.
Nutritional Gaps
Use whey protein to fill nutritional gaps when you can’t meet protein needs through whole foods. It can balance meals and snacks throughout the day, providing a feeling of fullness. Whether it’s breakfast or any other time, Whey protein supplements can help improve your nutrition. No matter when or where you choose to incorporate it, remember that Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein™ is the one to go for.
