There are a whole host of different supplements available that claim they can help you achieve all sorts of wonderful things.
However the mainstay of all supplement regimes should be a good quality protein. This is simply because protein has been consistently proven to have a number of benefits for the body when used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise.
These benefits include…
- Increased muscle size
- Enhanced strength
- Improved recovery
- Fat loss
- Reduced hunger
The body, though, doesn’t store any reserves of protein, so if you are physically active it makes sense that you will need to find extra sources of the macronutrient to get optimum results.
As you’d expect, there are various different options available – from ready-made shakes to recovery powders, from whey protein to casein – and each will have their own special extras to help them stand out from the crowd.
And from Universal Nutrition comes Ultra Iso Whey, which contains 100% whey protein isolates and a pretty impressive amino acid profile.
Universal claims that “Ultra Iso Whey has no additives or fillers, is delicious, and it mixes easily with a spoon”.
The company
Formed in 1977, Universal Nutrition are now one of the most-recognized and respected brands in sports nutrition.
They produce the Universal and Animal ranges of products in GMP facilities and cover the main areas of supplements.
“Value, quality, service, responsiveness, reliability and innovation” are the company’s key points, while with “a departure from fads and trends, Universal represents steadfastness and tradition and history”.
Ingredients and how they work
Universal recommends taking 1-3 servings of Ultra Iso Whey a day, although this should really depend on your goals and diet – with 1.5-2g of protein per kg of body weight an optimum daily amount if you are an active person looking to build muscle and reduce fat.
Each 25g serving of Ultra Iso Whey contains an imposing 21g of protein and no fat.
This is because Ultra Iso Whey is made of whey isolates, which contain a far higher concentration of protein (more than 90% by definition) compared to whey concentrates. This means you are getting far more of the good stuff, rather than fats, additives and fillers, while whey protein itself is absorbed quicker by the body.
Ultra Iso Whey also boasts a pretty impressive amino acid profile, with 19 in total that occur naturally from the protein source – rather than being added in.
These amino acids serve a variety of different roles, such as aiding protein synthesis, boosting energy, combating fatigue, reducing cravings and supporting growth.
Glutamine, for example, has been shown to aid performance during endurance exercise as well as stimulating protein synthesis in the gut, while leucine helps the growth and repair of tissue.
There are just four different flavors to choose from – chocolate shake, lemonade chiller, tropical punch and vanilla shake.
Ultra Iso Whey side effects
The good news about whey protein is that there are no reported side effects. Universal Nutrition do list on their packaging, though, that “before beginning any program, consult your health care practitioner”.
Ultra Iso Whey pros and cons
Pros
- Great taste
- Mixes brilliantly
- 0% fat
- Excellent reviews
- Impressive protein content
Cons
- Limited flavors
- Only available in 2lb tubs
Ultra Iso Whey conclusion
Ultra Iso Whey stands out from the crowd of protein powders that you will find available.
Although the 0% fat content will instantly appeal to those looking to lose weight, Ultra Iso Whey is ideal for anyone looking for a high-quality protein.
It taste good, mixes brilliantly and packs in a serious amount of protein per serving (21g per 25g serving). It also has a notable amino acid profile.
In fact it is difficult to find many criticisms of it, however the lack of options in flavors – there are just four, compared to the 13 listed for Optimum Nutrition’s 100% Whey Gold Standard – does count against it. We personally like to see an unflavored version as well so there are no problems if you want to mix it with creatine/pre-workout or even add in your own extras (such as peanut butter).
There have been some mixed reviews over the lemonade chiller flavor, too, but overall users are really impressed with what Ultra Iso Whey delivers.