Most whey isn’t the most appealing thing in the world before it gets to you. Whey is a somewhat sour, horribly pale, slimy liquid when it is initially separated from whole milk.
This is exacerbated if the whey was improperly handled and burnt, which occurs frequently. That “slightly bitter” flavor is dramatically intensified when the whey is warmed. Similar issues might develop when using casein and plant-based protein powders.
As a result, producers utilize a variety of chemicals, such as colours and tastes, to correct the issue. They do, however, rely extensively on a wide range of sweeteners.
However, you’re probably aware that mixing your protein powder with sugar isn’t a good idea. So, what are your options? Should you opt for a sugar free protein powder instead?
The Problem With Sugar
For one thing, you’re probably taking that protein powder because you’re looking for… well, protein. You’re not searching for sweets, are you? You shouldn’t be, either.
Most protein powders are already rich in calories, as they should be to ensure that you get the energy you require. However, any unexpected sugar can easily tip the scales (literally) and cause you to consume more calories than you planned for the day. Sugar in your protein, on the other hand, has the potential to do far more harm.
Sugar, a quickly digested carbohydrate, promotes a fast spike in blood sugar levels. Insulin, a storage hormone, is released in reaction, and it’s responsible for delivering any free-floating nutrients to where they need to go. And insulin is a master at what it does.
When your insulin levels rise, your cells swiftly consume all of the sugar. As a result, you’ll have low blood sugar and poor energy. In a frantic attempt to go back to normal, this condition makes you desire more quick carbohydrates.
However, insulin causes your body to accumulate any free fat that may or may not be present in your blood, which might work against your fitness objectives.
The Problem With Sugar Free Protein Powders
However, a “sugar-free protein powder” isn’t always a superior option. Companies frequently seek a sweet end-product without the dangers that come with sugar. As a result, artificial sweeteners are used.
There are a variety of substances that belong under this category, each of which has its own set of issues. Artificial sweeteners have been linked to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, and even cancer.
Although the mechanism by which these side effects occur is unknown, it is clear that these compounds can have a significant impact on the health of the bacteria that live in the human digestive system naturally.
Manipulation of these bugs has the potential to drastically alter your hormone profile, immunological response, and metabolism ” for better or worse.
What Is Sugar-Free Protein Powder?
According to The Nutrition Twins, many businesses have realized that “customers would prefer not to have certain (or any) sweeteners in their protein powder,” which is why you’ll see statements like “Unsweetened” on bags.
Technically, a company can term their protein powder unsweetened as long as it’s devoid of added sugars like cane sugar; nevertheless, we consider sugar-free protein powder to be free of all sweeteners.
Aside from sugar, there are a variety of non-nutritive or low-calorie sweeteners that have very little calories. Monk fruit and stevia, for example, are natural non-nutritive sweeteners that come from plants and have no calories.
Artificial sweeteners with no calories may also be used by brands. “Even though the FDA has allowed six artificial sweeteners (acesulfame potassium [commonly known as acesulfame K], aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, neotame, and advantame), you’re probably better off if you can avoid them,” say the Nutrition Twins. “Numerous studies have shown that artificial sweeteners may have detrimental effects on the body, and we believe that sticking to foods that are naturally sweet and not artificially sweetened is the best option.”
Why Should You Use Sugar-Free Protein Powder?
A sugar-free protein powder may be desired for a variety of reasons. The Nutrition Twins explain, “Most individuals blend protein powder with fruit or other items that naturally sweeten whatever they’re mixing with the powder, so they don’t need extra sweeteners.” Unsweetened protein powder, for example, is ideal for adding a scoop to a sugar-heavy smoothie or using in baking (think: protein powder pancakes). In both circumstances, you don’t want the protein powder’s added sweetness to interfere with your dish.
Is Sugar-Free Protein Powder Good For Diabetes?
You may get a box of sugar-free protein powder if you want to be sure you don’t consume any extra calories that aren’t good for your diet. These specific protein powder packets are also beneficial to persons who want to minimize their sugar intake or who have diabetes.
Conclusion
The best option is to go with a naturally sugar-free protein powder that doesn’t include any artificial sweeteners. No additions are required to cover up any potential manufacturing errors if a protein powder is correctly manufactured and processed.