Proteins are macronutrients that are made up of amino acids which are vital for growth, muscle building, muscle recovery, repair of our body’s cells and tissues, immune function, and other metabolic processes.
An individual’s protein requirement varies depending on their age, sex, health condition, and intensity of physical activity. For example, an athlete or bodybuilder’s protein requirements are higher compared to an average individual.
However, some people still find it difficult to consume enough protein daily. Caused by their busy schedules and lack of time preparing meals.
As such, one convenient way to get some protein is through protein supplements. Protein shakes are classified as dietary supplements which may help in providing extra protein to meet our daily dietary needs.
There are two known brands when it comes to protein powder. The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein and the Muscle Milk Whey Protein. Is Muscle Milk better or should you go for the popular Optimum Nutrition?
If you’re interested to know more about the Muscle Milk vs Gold Standard, keep reading and we will provide you an in-depth comparison between the two products.
Table of Contents
TLDR: Muscle Milk vs Gold Standard
#1 Muscle Milk Whey Protein
The Muscle Milk brand is a protein powder that is composed of both whey and casein protein blend. These proteins are essential to help maintain, repair, recover and build muscle.
Aside from protein, Muscle Milk also contains other macronutrients, such as carbohydrates and fats, which is why some consider it a meal replacement shake.
It is also an excellent source of some vitamins and minerals such as Calcium, vitamins A, C, and D. As well as 2 grams of fiber per serving.
Whether you’re an athlete looking for a pre-workout and post-workout meal or someone who just wants to meet your daily protein intake. This easy-to-mix protein powder can be your on-the-go solution. You can also enjoy it by simply adding it to your smoothie or other recipes.
[You might also like: Best Muscle Milk Flavors]
- Great tasting which offers a wide variety of flavors.
- Provides all 9 essential amino acids.
- Contains 32 grams of protein per serving (serving size: 2 scoops or 70g)
- Combination of high-quality slow and fast releasing proteins for more sustained delivery.
- Soy and Gluten-free.
- Tested for banned substances
- Higher calorie compared to other protein supplements
Interested? Here’s the link to purchase!
#2 Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein
The Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder is composed of a 100% Whey protein blend. Whey Protein Isolates as its main ingredient, which is considered the purest form of whey protein. Along with ultra-filtered Whey concentrate. You’ll be sure that you are getting high-quality standard protein with every scoop.
Gold Standard provides 24 grams of whey protein per serving and 5.5 grams of BCAA which helps support muscle growth, rebuild muscle fiber, and recovery.
A whey protein shake is best consumed first thing in the morning, before or after exercise.
This high-standard quality protein mixes easily even with just a glass and spoon with its instantized powder. They also offer a wide variety of flavors to choose from.
[You can also read about: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Flavor]
- New Look, Same trusted quality.
- Gluten-free, no sucralose
- No Artificial Growth Hormones
- Banned Substance tested
- Available in a wide variety of sizes and flavors.
- Great tasting
- Mixes easily.
- Low Fat
- Contains 24 grams whey protein per serving (serving size: 1 scoop or 30.4g)
- May cause bloatedness when consumed too much.
Interested? Here’s the link to purchase!
In-Depth Expert Fitness Comparison: Muscle Milk vs Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein
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Muscle Milk vs Whey Gold Standard: Who is it best for?
Besides protein, the Muscle Milk Brand contains much more added nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it also contains a higher amount of calories. Which made it a better choice for those who want to gain weight as well.
And for those who want to build muscle and gain leaner muscle, since the Gold Standard contains 100% whey protein, higher protein content, and higher BCAA (Branch Chain Amino Acid), Gold Standard would be a better option.
What Do People Say About It?
Amazon
Muscle Milk Brand has been rated well on Amazon. Mr. Brandon, from the United States, wrote: “The chocolate flavor is good. I’m generally happy with muscle milk flavors.” However, he also mentioned that the only flavor he didn’t like was the Banana Creme flavor because of the aftertaste. He used Muscle Milk Brand as his post-workout meal.
As for The Gold Standard, Angus Maguk wrote: “I have been using this protein powder and the double chocolate flavor since 2008. The flavor is amazing, it tastes like you’re cheating on your diet but it doesn’t really have any sugar in it for the flavor. The protein is high and the carbs and fat are low…”
YouTube
A review made by Rob, from The Gym rat world said that “Muscle Milk went a little bit further as they put MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides) which basically a fat which turns into energy which is awesome cause you’re gonna get that sustained energy with protein, and on top of that they have put 20 vitamins and minerals.”
Meanwhile, a review from Barbend about the Gold Standard said that “Double Rich chocolate flavor has a relatively mild taste and as combined with milk; it comes together really nicely.”
The Verdict: Which One is Better?
Both protein powders provide great taste and high-quality protein.
However, Muscle Milk Brand’s advantage over the other is that it provides more additional nutrients. Gold Standard Whey Protein is almost purely a protein supplement and lacks other nutrients.
What’s even great is that the fat source of Muscle milk is MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides) which are readily burned by the body and will be used as energy rather than be stored as fat.
On the other side, if you are considering a lower calorie, lower fat, sugar content, and higher amount of protein. Gold Standard would be more suitable for you.
Safety Information
As with any dietary supplement, these products are intended for healthy adults over 18 years old. If you are nursing, pregnant, or considering pregnancy, you should consult your health care practitioner prior to using this product.
If you like this article, make sure to check out our other articles at ExpertFitness.org
Nathan Lloyd, MSc
LICENSED PERSONAL TRAINER
I’m a personal trainer, based in Boulder, Colorado.
I service clients physically in the Boulder area, mainly in the ONE Boulder Fitness Gym, but am also available for online consulting and coaching.
If you’re interested in my personal coaching programs, please contact me via the contact page.