Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Strawberries & Cream, 5 Pound (Packaging May Vary)

----Introduction----We all know that whey protein works. It's one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to reach your protein goals if you can't get there with meals. "Cheaping out" on your whey doesn't always pan out, as anyone who has choked down a less expensive (but clumpy) tub of protein. Paying top dollar doesn't always guarantee positive results either. I've had some "premium" protein that I didn't care for because while it mixed great, it tasted terrible! I always seem to come back to ON whey protein because it fits the bill on all accounts (at least for me).----Ingredient Profile----It's got whey! (hey!). Around 24g of protein per scoop (~31g) you get a fair amount of protein, with the rest left over for "other stuff". The "other stuff" being 1g of fat and 3g of carbs, with one gram of those carbs coming from sugar. All this is from ONE label that I found (chocolate malt flavor), but if you look around the net at other labels of this product, you'll see slightly different numbers. What's up with that? The variance is most likely due to the MANY different flavors ON has on the market. The flavor will also affect what sweetener is used, as I have seen acesulfame potassium and sucralose (better known as the brand name Splenda) both alone and in combination depending on the flavor. It's good to be aware that this variance exists, but for most it shouldn't matter too much. I'm sure you can find other whey's with a tighter carb/sugar/fat/protein ratio, so if you're micromanaging your macros you might be concerned. But overall I think it's pretty good.On the topic of artificial sweeteners: I feel that artificial sweeteners are safe for the most part. Some people might disagree, but much of the clinical literature I have read (regarding aspartame, saccharine, and sucralose specifically) has indicated that they are safe in most people. Most problems I have heard are that people have trouble digesting large amounts of the stuff and get diarrhea. However, I feel that they are better than the amount of sugar (I.E., empty calories) it takes to achieve a similar sweetness. These are just my own thoughts and opinions, so use your best judgment.----Taste----Here is where a protein powder can really shine, in my opinion. With upwards to 24 different flavors, you're bound to find one that you like. I've tried a handful of them and they were great. My go-to has been the double rich chocolate, as I can add some peanut butter to it if I want to add some more calories/make it taste even better. I would recommend that you pick a flavor that you REALLY like before investing in a 10lb bag (strawberry got old after a while).----Mixability----ON's Whey always mixes easily and cleanly in both milk and water, with very little (if any) clumpage. The labeling states that you can stir it up with a spoon, but I recommend sticking to a good ol' shaker bottle. Full marks here.----Dosing----Dosing is easy peasy, just scoop up however much you need. One scoop per serving is pretty standard for most powders, with 24g per serving being normal as well.----Effectiveness----I can state with great certainty that ON's protein is effective. Working in the field that I do, some jobs in the past have had me working 12 hours a day with no breaks. Oftentimes, this would be my only source of protein (and sometime my only source of nutrition, period). Despite these conditions I was still able to hit my daily protein goals. I did have some digestive issues when I first started supplementing protein, but that was mostly because I made such a drastic change in my eating habits. Those have long since subsided, and my gut bacteria enjoy processing my protein without complaint.Also, Labdoor.com (an independent supplement testing lab) gave ON's Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein an A-. I feel that the "minus" comes from the inclusion of artificial sweeteners, which labdoor.com marks as "controversial". As I've said previously, I feel these claims are overstated.----Value----The best value is to buy in bulk, and ON offers a whopping 10lb bag for around $110 on amazon. That averages out to about 75 cents a serving, so I feel that I'm getting my money's worth. The most commonly carried size by most brick-and-mortar stores is the 5lb tubs, but sizes go all the way down to a 1.8lb package if you aren't a monster consumer like myself. Do note that not all flavors are carried in all sizes, as the 10lb bags are limited to around 5 flavors.----Side Effects----You might experience some cramping if you're new to supplementing protein, but that's usually because your body is getting used to processing protein in such a large bolus. It should pass fairly quickly. For those that still have problems, you might have issues processing whey in general. I have heard of people having success in switching to other protein sources such as soy in these cases.----Conclusion----If you want a whey protein that is affordable, mixes well, tastes great, and works, look no further. While you can probably find some other whey's with a slimmer carb profile, it won't beat ON's Gold Standard by much. Highly recommended.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder in Extreme Milk Chocolate has been my go-to protein for over 10 years, and for good reason! This protein powder consistently delivers exceptional quality and results, making it an essential part of my daily routine.The Extreme Milk Chocolate flavor is rich and indulgent, making it feel more like a treat than a supplement. I love mixing it with water for a quick post-workout shake, or blending it with almond milk and a banana for a more filling smoothie. It mixes effortlessly without clumping, which is a huge plus for me—no one wants to deal with chalky shakes!What really sets this protein apart is the high-quality ingredients. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein, sourced from whey protein isolate and concentrate, which helps support muscle recovery and growth. The added BCAAs are a great bonus, further enhancing the muscle recovery process after intense workouts.I’ve tried various protein powders over the years, but none have come close to the value offered by Optimum Nutrition. The quality-to-price ratio is unmatched, making it accessible for anyone serious about their fitness goals. The 5-pound tub lasts a long time, making it a cost-effective choice for daily supplementation.In addition to its effectiveness, I appreciate that this protein powder is low in sugar and fat, which aligns perfectly with my nutritional goals. It’s also incredibly versatile—I’ve used it in baking recipes, like protein pancakes and energy bars, without compromising the taste or texture.If you’re looking for a reliable, delicious, and effective protein supplement that stands the test of time, I can’t recommend Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey enough. It’s not just a product; it’s a staple in my fitness journey, and I’m confident it will be for you too!