UNDERSTANDING OPTIMUM NUTRITION GOLD STANDARD WHEY

UNDERSTANDING OPTIMUM NUTRITION GOLD STANDARD WHEY

You've probably heard about Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard Whey before. Optimum Nutrition has long led the supplement industry and is widely regarded as the gold standard. The household name is the typical go-to for the average gym-goer and athletes alike. It has consistently been recognized as the most awarded, reviewed, and best-selling protein supplement globally, and for a good reason…

So... what is whey? 

• A dairy protein derived from cow's milk.
• A complete protein (milk protein such as whey contains all nine essential amino acids and is, therefore, 'complete').
• A fast-digesting and absorbing protein.

Isolate VS Concentrate: A whey isolate is more refined and contains more protein with fewer carbs and fat per serving. It's absorbed quicker, lighter, and more expensive than a concentrate. On the other hand, a whey concentrate offers more of a sustained release with a slightly higher natural fat, carbohydrate, and lactose content. An isolate typically contains 90% protein and 70-80% protein concentrate.

Why do you take it? 

Protein is of paramount importance to the human body. Every cell contains protein, and you need it to help your body repair cells and make new ones. Healthy adults all need to consume enough protein in their diet to meet their needs. Furthermore, it is essential in regards to muscle maintenance and muscle building. Why, you ask? Because physical activity increases muscle protein breakdown (MPB). MPB is a process where your body breaks down old damaged muscle fibers to make new muscle fibers. For a muscle to grow (aka. hypertrophy), the rate of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) must be greater than the rate of muscle protein breakdown (MPB). Whey protein has the most significant effect on increasing MPS and is therefore used as a supplement to build muscle.

The Gold Standard formula

Gold Standard 100% Whey is a combination blend, meaning that it consists of both whey isolate and concentrate. Although, it mainly consists of whey protein isolate. The benefit of isolates is that it's partially pre-digested, making it easier to break down and act faster. If you have issues with lactose or dairy products, an isolate is the better option for you. 

A serving of the Gold Standard 100% Whey consists of 123 calories, 24g protein, 1.5g fat, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g of naturally-occurring BCAAs. Their formula has consistently been tweaked over time as technology advances and consumer preferences change. ON's quality and flavor have long set the standard for other brands and products.

Benefits

Protein is referred to as the building blocks of your muscles. When combined with resistance training, eating adequate protein will help you maintain muscle mass and stimulate muscle growth. Using whey protein may also aid in weight loss as it is very satiating and will help mitigate muscle loss. Whey protein helps your muscles recover from exercise and is a convenient meal replacement option. 

How and when to use Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100% Whey? 

ON's Gold Standard 100% Whey is easy to mix with water using a spoon or shaker. You can also blend it with milk or use it when baking and cooking. 100% Whey can be used as a meal replacement to fill nutritional gaps throughout your day or around your training to help support muscle recovery and growth.