Optimum Nutrition Protein: Keto-Friendly Or Not?

Optimum Nutrition is a brand of protein powder that offers a range of products, including whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. These protein supplements are often used by bodybuilders and those on ketogenic diets to increase their protein intake. While the products themselves do not contain many carbohydrates, there is some debate about whether they can knock you out of ketosis. Some people believe that the insulin spike caused by whey protein can interfere with ketosis, while others argue that it is only the glucose from carbohydrates that matters. Overall, Optimum Nutrition's protein powders can be a good option for those on a keto diet, but it is important to monitor your ketone levels and choose a product with minimal carbohydrates to stay within your desired carb range.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey

This product is banned-substance tested and uses the highest quality control measures, ensuring safe consumption. It is a good choice for those looking to increase their protein intake, support muscle recovery, and build lean muscle mass. The product has received numerous positive reviews, with customers praising its taste, quality, mixability, and effectiveness.

It's important to note that Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is not suitable for those with dairy or soy allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities. Additionally, while it is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea if consumed in excess due to the use of artificial sweeteners.

Isopure Zero Carb

The product has added vitamins and minerals that help you perform at your best all day, every day. It contains 25 grams of pure whey protein isolate, which helps your body stay full and energized to get you through the day. It is also a great powder to use after working out to aid in muscle repair. This product works well in water, milk, or shakes and can be incorporated into your favourite healthy recipes.

The product contains some artificial ingredients, which may not be desirable for some. However, it is gluten and lactose-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals with food sensitivities.

Ketone Blood Meter Kits

A Ketone Blood Meter Kit comes with everything you need to measure your ketone levels. You put a strip into the test meter, use the lancet pen (needle) on your fingertip to get a tiny drop of blood, then place a drop of blood on the end of the strip, and the meter will tell you your results. A reading of around 1.5-3 mmol/L means you are in optimal ketosis.

There are a few different blood ketone meters to choose from, including the Precision Xtra, Nova Max Plus, and CardioChek Home. The meters tend to cost around $20 to $40, and each test strip costs between $2 and $5.

Some people may find that testing their ketone levels can lead to obsessions and unnecessary anxiety. It is important to remember that the most important thing is to track your intake and how you feel. However, for people with medical conditions that require monitoring blood ketone levels, or for those who are simply curious, a ketone blood meter can be a useful tool.

In addition to blood testing, there are also breathalyzers that check for acetone, which is another measure of ketosis. These can be motivating for people who want instant confirmation that their efforts are working.

Overall, ketone blood meter kits can be a helpful tool for people following a ketogenic diet, but they are not necessary for everyone. It is important to consider your individual needs and preferences when deciding whether to invest in a ketone blood meter kit.

Ketogenic diets

Whey Protein and Ketosis

Some people on keto diets wonder if they can still consume whey protein, a popular supplement among bodybuilders. Whey protein shakes are a big part of the diets of many people in the bodybuilding community, who also tend to be the people who most often go on keto diets.

The short answer is yes, it is possible to consume whey protein while on a keto diet without being kicked out of ketosis. However, it depends on the specific product and how many carbohydrates you are consuming from other sources. Most whey protein powders have 0-3g of carbohydrates per serving, which is not enough to kick you out of ketosis. However, some mass gainers can have up to 100g of carbohydrates, which will definitely affect ketosis.

It is also a common belief that consuming too much protein can kick you out of ketosis, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. While it is true that the body can turn excess protein into glucose through the process of gluconeogenesis, studies have shown that the body limits glucose utilisation in this case, reducing the need for gluconeogenesis.

Recommended Keto-Friendly Whey Protein Powders

• Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder
• Naked Whey
• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
• Dymatize Elite Whey Protein
• Cellucor Lean Protein
• 4everfit Whey in Tropical Mango
• Isopure Banana Cream
• Isoflex Protein
• Optimum Nutrition Performance Whey Isolate

Insulin spikes

The ketogenic diet aims to force the body to use ketone bodies for energy instead of carbohydrates and fat. Insulin suppresses the production of ketones, so minimizing insulin is essential for maintaining ketosis. This is achieved by restricting carbohydrates and moderating protein intake, ensuring just enough protein is consumed to meet the body's needs.

Carbohydrates directly impact insulin levels, as they require insulin to be metabolized and used for energy. When carbohydrates are consumed, the body's blood sugar levels rise, prompting the pancreas to release insulin to remove the glucose from the bloodstream and store it in fat cells for later use. Therefore, reducing carbohydrate intake is crucial for lowering insulin production.

Protein can also trigger an insulin spike, and dairy proteins such as whey protein and Greek yogurt are particularly insulinogenic. Adding whey protein to a meal can increase the insulin response. However, the exact mechanism behind protein's impact on insulin is not fully understood, and reducing protein intake too much can lead to deficiency problems. Thus, the goal is to consume adequate protein while avoiding excess.

While fat does raise insulin levels, it does so minimally, especially when not consumed in excess. A high-fat, adequate-protein, and low-carbohydrate diet effectively reduces insulin production, allowing the body to produce ketone bodies for energy. This dietary approach has been shown to significantly reduce fasting insulin and postprandial insulin levels.

In summary, to maintain ketosis, it is essential to minimize insulin spikes by reducing carbohydrate and moderating protein intake, while focusing on healthy fats as a primary energy source. This approach not only promotes ketosis but also offers therapeutic benefits for individuals with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Frequently asked questions