Whey protein

Ascent
75 Good
$48.99 · 2 lb
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Summary

This whey protein product features a high-quality protein isolate blend, which is beneficial for muscle repair and growth due to its complete amino acid profile and superior digestibility. The use of natural flavors and sunflower lecithin introduces some processing concerns, but these are relatively minor compared to the overall clean formulation. The product avoids artificial sweeteners and excessive additives, maintaining a focus on ingredient quality.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Edgewater Equity Partners
Category Protein Powders

Key ingredients 6

Whey Protein Isolate Blend
Very Good

Whey protein isolate blend is a high-quality protein source with a complete amino acid profile, beneficial for muscle repair and growth. It is derived from milk and undergoes processing to remove most fats and lactose, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Compared to other protein sources, it offers superior bioavailability and digestibility.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids, it supports muscle recovery and growth, making it ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Whey Protein Concentrate
Good

Whey protein concentrate is a high-quality protein that retains more of the beneficial nutrients found in whey. It contains slightly more fat and lactose than isolates, which can be beneficial for those seeking additional nutrients. It is less processed than isolates, preserving more bioactive compounds.

Risks

May cause digestive issues for those with lactose intolerance due to higher lactose content.

Benefits

Provides a rich source of protein and bioactive compounds that support muscle growth and immune function.

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Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources but can be heavily processed. The lack of transparency in their composition can be concerning for consumers seeking clean labels. They may contain additives or solvents used in the extraction process.

Risks

Potential for undisclosed additives or allergens, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.

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Sunflower Lecithin
Bad

Sunflower lecithin is used as an emulsifier to improve texture and mixability in products. It is derived from sunflower seeds and involves processing that may strip some beneficial nutrients. While not as harmful as seed oils, it is still considered a processed additive.

Risks

May cause mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals, but generally considered safe in small amounts.

Benefits

Helps improve the texture and consistency of the product without significant health benefits.

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Stevia Leaf Extract
Neutral

Stevia leaf extract is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is processed to extract the sweet compounds, which are significantly sweeter than sugar. It is a popular alternative to artificial sweeteners due to its natural origin.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories, making it suitable for those managing calorie intake.

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Sea Salt
Neutral

Sea salt is used to enhance flavor and contains trace minerals not found in regular table salt. It is minimally processed, retaining some natural minerals. However, its nutritional impact is minimal due to the small quantities used.

Risks

Excessive consumption of salt can lead to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Adds flavor and trace minerals, but benefits are negligible in small amounts.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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