NOW Whey Protein Isolate is a high quality protein supplement that is both bioavailable and easily digested. Whey protein contains a high concentration of Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's), which are important for efficient muscle metabolism.* These qualities make NOW Whey Protein Isolate an ideal supplement for active individuals.
NOTE: Only those products listed with "Natural" in their product name contain all natural ingredients.
This was a product of firsts for me. I had never used a product from NOW, a protein isolate, nor an unflavored protein. The result is that I just ordered 3 more 5 lb buckets. I enjoyed the price break with the unflavored variety and added fruit, yogurt, or Hershey's syrup to add flavor. Concerning price, I created a spreadsheet and calculated the cost per gram of protein for every isolate available on Netrition.com and this product was the most value for the money. Quality and effectiveness are more difficult to judge, especially without a lab assay, but I can say that this was the finest and easiest to mix protein I've ever used. I have been on 4 scoops per day for 40 days and have realized significant results in terms of fat loss and muscle gain. Although, this was in combination with a host of other supplements and I would not be able to positively attribute the results to this one product. One final comment is the genius of the folding handle on the top of the bucket. All around super protein and highly recommended.
I use this whey protein isolate (unflavored) in baking, and it works very well. You can use it to replace all or some of the flour in many recipes and notice no or little difference in the taste or texture in the finished product. For example, you can use this to completely replace the flour used in a brownie recipe and it most people will not be able to tell the difference. For breads and cakes, you may need to mix it with some flour, but it still works well and can replace a lot of carbs with protein. It is practically tasteless, so you can add it to sauces and dressings, and can be used as a thickening agent.
A great product! For what I paid, it breaks down to .62 cents a serving (25 grams protein/2.5 grams BCAAs). It mixes well in everything and the taste is hardly noticeable. I don't like the taste of many of the flavored protein mixes out there and would rather make my own drinks. Most of the time I use this post workout. If I have a hard cardio workout I'll throw in some additional carbs in the form of granulated gatorade. If my workout is not as cardio intensive, I'll throw in some non calorie flavored packet for a great tasting low calorie drink. I also throw in about 5 grams of creatine most days. I mostly mix with water, but this stuff also works well in smoothies with various fruits and milk (soy or regular). I find that it mixes best if you put in about half the water first, add the various powders, and then top off the water. The wife likes it too!
This review is specific to Whey Protein Isolate, Natural Unflavored