Which Protein Is Best for You?

I’m asked almost daily to give feedback to fans and consumers on which protein they should take. Whether they post a picture of the protein they’re currently using or are asking which of the JYM proteins they should consume, I’ve noticed this is a BIG topic, so I’ll break it all down here.

Let’s get this off the table first. A simple rule to follow is to look at the label of your protein powder. If it contains whey protein concentrate, toss it.

The word you need to familiarize yourself with is “concentrate.” This type of protein contains fat and lactose and only about 50%-75% of actual protein. Contrary to whey protein isolate, because of its higher lactose content, I consider whey protein concentrate a subpar version of whey protein.

Whey protein isolate (WPI for short) contains around 87% protein by weight with virtually no lactose. If you’ve ever taken a protein shake and had stomach issues, a possible culprit could be the lactose in whey concentrate protein

Whey protein concentrate is far less expensive per gram than the isolate forms, so it makes sense why most companies opt for this version without regard to the amount of lactose and fat the consumers are getting.

My proteins – Pro JYM, Iso JYM, Plant JYM, even Mass JYM – will NEVER contain this type of material. No whey protein concentrates ever!

So, where exactly do you look to make sure this type of protein is NOT in your protein powder? Every label has an “Ingredients” list right below the Supplement Facts panel. Check to see if “Whey Protein Concentrate” is on the list. If the product is a good, quality protein powder, it won’t be.

Some products contain both whey concentrate and isolate – that won’t work either. Your protein should contain isolates only.  

Here’s a protein powder containing whey protein concentrate:

Now that I’ve given you the basics on what protein type to avoid (concentrates), let’s review what protein you should take and the options that are best for you.

When it comes to my protein powders, you’ll notice I offer three different options: Pro JYM, Plant JYM and Iso JYM.

The reason I offer multiple options is because I create solutions for both you and me. Note that all three JYM proteins are gluten-free and lactose-free.

Let’s get into each product so you can make an educated decision on which to choose based on your goals and dietary needs…

Pro JYM is a blend of whey protein isolate, casein, and milk protein isolate (which is made up of whey and casein.) Research suggests that this type of blend is best for maximizing your results before and after training.

Why? It’s due to the way each white protein source works. Whey is fast acting and spikes muscle protein synthesis (MPS), while casein protein helps sustain that spike even longer.*

Because that’s how you build muscle and recover from intense workouts. More muscle = less fat. If you're interested in building muscle, burning fat, and getting the best MPS spike around training, Pro JYM is for you!*

Is Pro JYM best for everyone? Generally, yes, but many factors come into play — namely, food allergies and intolerances.  And that’s where these next two protein powders come into play…

Why would you use a plant protein after all of the above points about Pro JYM? Simple: You're on a plant-based diet or are sensitive or allergic to whey and/or casein, and you need a solution.

But not all plant proteins are equal. Nearly every plant protein on the market SUCKS. Why? A few reasons. First of all, many use protein concentrates and are filled with carbs. In fact, the grams of carbs often rival the amount of protein per serving. That’s a huge fail!

There are four problems with most plant proteins. I fixed all four with Plant JYM. Here’s what I fixed…

Problem 1: Most plant protein products have too many carbs.

Problem 2: Most plant protein products have too little protein per serving

Problem 3: Most plant proteins have a bad amino acid profile, thus making them less effective for building muscle than whey and other types of animal proteins.

Problem 4: Most plant protein products taste awful! Let’s face it, all the facts in the world mean nothing if you have to choke down your protein.

I was able to create a plant protein powder that delivers 24 grams of protein per scoop and only 5 grams of carbs.

Plant JYM uses a blend of rice and pea protein isolates, not concentrates. That means the carbs are removed, and it also eliminates the gritty texture to help create the best-tasting plant protein you have ever had.

Finally, in order to maximize the muscle-building potential of Plant JYM and create a worthy alternative to Pro JYM, I added many key amino acids (including BCAAs) to Plant JYM to closely match the amino acid profile in Pro JYM.

If you have a particular food allergy, are vegetarian or vegan, or just want to add some variety and plant proteins to your diet, Plant JYM is for you!

Finally, let’s cover Iso JYM. What is it? It’s whey protein isolate, nothing more. Why did I create it? Because, again, I create solutions for you, the consumer.

Iso JYM provides 20 grams of protein and only 1-2 grams carbs per scoop! It’s the perfect option for those on low-carb diets looking to maximize muscle gains and fat loss* – like someone getting ready to step on stage and needing to keep carbs in check while getting in much-needed protein. Or anyone just looking to get shredded and stay lean, period.*

Iso JYM is a clear whey protein isolate available in light, refreshing fruit flavors, which means you can literally drink it and go play a sport, lift weights, or do any other physical activity without feeling full. All of my protein powders are great around workouts, but some people just can’t drink a thick shake like Pro JYM or Plant JYM and go train. Iso JYM is perfect for these people.

If you have a sensitivity to casein, are on a low-carb diet, and/or need to bump up your protein intake without constantly feeling full, Iso JYM is for you!

Hope that clears up any questions you have on what protein to reach for. I understand it can be overwhelming, but that’s why I'm here to help. Make your choice on what protein best fits your goals – Pro JYM, Plant JYM, or Iso JYM – and start maximizing your results!*