Many casual and professional athletes use protein powder to boost their gains and maintain muscle. However, there are hundreds of different formulations, from various companies. Many of these protein powders are high in sugars, and may not work how they are advertised. This is why it is important to always do your research. In this article, we look at Sports Nutrition Whey Protein vs FlavCity Protein Smoothie to see which is healthier.
While protein powders are most commonly used by athletes, they can also be beneficial for vegetarians and picky eaters. By consuming a protein shake each day, you can increase your protein intake substantially which could be crucial if you are not eating high protein foods. These shakes can be used to supplement protein intake, but should not be used as a replacement. For athletes, protein powder should be consumed within 30 minutes of your workout for the best results.
The Now Sports Nutrition Whey Protein is packaged within the USA and contains whey protein isolate as the protein source. Whey protein isolate is a by-product of cheese making. It is low in fat and also has a lower lactose content than standard whey protein. This means this protein option can be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant, however, is not suitable for anyone with milk allergies.
When it comes to the nutritional value of Now Sports Nutrition Whey Protein, it contains BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) and 25G of protein per serving. There is less than 1g of fat, 45mg of sodium, no added sugar, 121mg of calcium, and 155mg of potassium. The ingredients vary per flavor, however, the unflavored option contains just whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin. For the Chocolate and Vanilla options, the protein also contains natural flavors, xanthan gum, xylitol, and stevia leaf extract. Some in the health arena are concerned about consuming gums and the unknowns of “natural flavors” as a catch-all where other items less desirable may be included. The flavored options contain 2g of carbohydrates and are also higher in sodium than the unflavored options.
The unflavoured option can taste a little sour to some people, however, most users do not notice it when mixing it with fruit such as bananas. The texture is smooth and the powder mostly dissolves in any liquid including water. This means the final drink isn’t too gritty. Furthermore, the protein powder works great for baking protein pancakes or muffins.
The FlavCity Protein Smoothie is proudly made in the USA and uses whey protein concentrate as its protein source. Whey protein concentrate is also a by-product of the cheese-making process and is also commonly used in infant formula. Whey protein concentrate is less processed and contains more fat than isolate. This is helpful in protein powders as the higher fat content helps to feed the muscles and is often easier to digest.
Each serving of FlavCity Protein Smoothie contains 25g of protein, and BCAAs. Other nutritional values include 4g of fat, 190mg of sodium, 8g of carbohydrates (not from added sugar), 80mg of calcium, and 210mg of potassium in the vanilla option. FlavCity Protein Smoothie also comes in chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, berries & cream, tropical creamsicle, brownie batter, and butter coffee.
Ingredients in the vanilla option are grass-fed whey protein concentrate, grass-fed collagen, organic banana powder, organic coconut milk powder, organic pea protein, vanilla powder, sea salt, organic cordyceps powder, organic reishi powder, stevia leaf extract, and monk fruit extract. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen for its health benefits, with the collagen adding extra joint support and the cordyceps and reishi mushrooms aiding in focusing brain cognition, and mental health. There are no gums or natural flavors added.
FlavCity Protein Smoothie powders pack a punch of flavor, making them very easy to consume as a beverage or in protein baking. When mixed with liquids the consistency is smooth, including when mixed with just water.
So which is better, Now Sports Nutrition Whey Protein or FlavCity Protein Smoothie? When it comes down to it, FlavCity is healthier and cleaner for you with the added collagen and mushrooms. Additionally, having the whey protein concentrate and collagen sourced from grass-fed cattle means that FlavCity is higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce heart disease and the chances of stroke.
