Our ReviewSixStarWhey Protein Plus
The SixStar Whey Protein Plus blend is a trifecta of whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein. That's a solid lineup if you're looking to fuel your muscles post-workout or even as a meal replacement. With a serving size of 47 grams, you're getting a substantial 30 grams of protein, alongside 8 grams of carbs and just 2.5 grams of fat. That's a pretty balanced macro profile.
What sets this product apart is its added immune support matrix, featuring Vitamin C and Zinc. It's not just about muscle gains; it's about overall well-being. So, whether you're lifting, running, or doing HIIT, this protein powder aims to serve multiple purposes.
Ingredients
Alright, let's talk ingredients. SixStar Whey Protein Plus comes with a blend of three types of whey: whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein. Whey concentrate is your go-to for a balanced profile of protein and fats. Isolate is the cleaner, more protein-dense option, and hydrolyzed is the easiest to digest. So, you're getting a bit of everything here—muscle fuel, quick absorption, and digestive ease.
Now, onto the added immune support matrix. Vitamin C and Zinc are thrown into the mix, which is a nice touch.
However, there are a couple of things to note. The product does contain maltodextrin, a complex carb that some might prefer to avoid due to its high glycemic index. Also, there's a gum blend (cellulose gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan) for texture, which is generally safe but can be a concern for some folks with sensitive stomachs.
As for artificial ingredients, it contains sucralose and acesulfame-potassium as sweeteners. While they're generally considered safe, some people prefer to steer clear of artificial stuff.
What could make this blend even better? Maybe some added BCAAs or digestive enzymes to enhance absorption and muscle recovery. But hey, that's just food for thought.
So, why the 85% score? The blend of whey proteins is excellent, and the added immune support is a unique feature. However, the presence of artificial sweeteners and maltodextrin might be a turn-off for the more health-conscious among us.
Effectiveness
Let's get down to the brass tacks—how effective is SixStar Whey Protein Plus? With 30 grams of protein per 47-gram serving, this product packs a punch. The protein comes from a blend of whey concentrate, isolate, and hydrolyzed whey, which is a well-rounded approach to muscle recovery and growth.
Whey concentrate is a good source of protein with a moderate digestion speed, making it suitable for post-workout recovery. Whey isolate is more refined, offering a higher protein content and quicker absorption. Hydrolyzed whey is pre-digested, making it the fastest to absorb. This combination ensures that you're getting immediate as well as sustained protein release, which is pretty much what you'd want for muscle repair and growth.
The product also contains 8 grams of carbs and 2.5 grams of fat per serving. While the carb content is on the higher side, it will provide some quick energy post-workout. The fat content is minimal, which is ideal for those looking to keep their caloric intake in check.
What makes this product stand out is its added immune support matrix, featuring Vitamin C and Zinc. It's a thoughtful addition, especially considering that intense workouts can sometimes suppress the immune system.
So, why not a higher score? Well, while the product is effective for its intended purpose, the presence of maltodextrin as a carb source might not be ideal for everyone, especially those watching their blood sugar levels.
Taste
Alright, let's talk about the fun stuff—taste, texture, and mixability. The vanilla isn't overpowering, but it's rich enough to give you that comforting, creamy experience. Compared to other vanilla-flavored protein powders I've tried, this one is mild, but definitely ranks well on the taste scale.
As for the texture, it's smooth but not too thick, which we appreciated. Some protein powders can be chalky or gritty, but SixStar Whey Protein Plus is neither. It has a nice, velvety feel that goes down easy.
Now, mixability is a big deal for me. I hate it when protein powders clump up. We're happy to report that this product mixes well, both with water and milk. With water, it's a bit lighter, which is great if you're in a rush or just finished a heavy workout.
So why did we give it this score? Well, while the taste is great, it's not mind-blowing. I've had other vanilla-flavored protein powders that had a bit more depth in flavor.
Value
When it comes to value, SixStar Whey Protein Plus really holds its own. Let's break it down. First off, this isn't a premium protein powder, but it's definitely not budget either. I'd place it squarely in the mid-range category. For what you're paying, you're getting a solid blend of whey proteins, which, as we've discussed, offers a range of benefits from quick absorption to sustained release.
Compared to other similar products in the market, SixStar offers a competitive edge with its added immune support matrix. Vitamin C and Zinc aren't typically found in your run-of-the-mill protein powders, so that's a plus. It's like getting a two-for-one deal—a protein supplement that also boosts your immune system.
The ingredient quality is also something to consider. While it does contain some artificial sweeteners and maltodextrin, the core ingredients—whey concentrate, isolate, and hydrolyzed whey—are of good quality.
While the product offers great value, the presence of some artificial ingredients might be a sticking point for those who prefer an all-natural product. But if that's not a deal-breaker for you, then SixStar Whey Protein Plus offers excellent bang for your buck.
Conclusion
SixStar Whey Protein Plus in Vanilla Cream flavor offers a well-rounded package for anyone looking to supplement their protein intake. With a blend of whey concentrate, isolate, and hydrolyzed whey, it caters to various needs—quick absorption, sustained release, and easy digestion. The added immune support matrix sets it apart from the competition, offering a unique benefit.
While it's not a premium product, it certainly punches above its weight in the mid-range category. The presence of artificial sweeteners and maltodextrin might be a concern for some, but if you're not overly strict about these ingredients, the product offers excellent value for the price.
If you're in the market for a protein powder that goes beyond just muscle recovery, SixStar Whey Protein Plus is a strong contender. I'd recommend it for those who want a multi-faceted supplement that offers both protein and immune support, without breaking the bank.
Where to buy?
The protein matrix includes the primary protein components included in this product. These protein sources are listed in order of volume from greatest to least in the product.
This diagram provides the digestion profile for the protein types contained within this product. The chart plots the digestion of the included protein types over an hourly timeframe. All profiles have their advantages depending on your goals. More information regarding digestion and timing can be found in our guides.
The cost indicators provide a relative cost comparison with all protein products. The lower the score the better!
The "Product Cost Indicator" provides the comparative product cost, as a whole.
The "Protein Cost Indicator" provides a comparative cost based on only the protein component. While this can be useful for comparing products excluding fillers, many additional ingredients can provide additional benefits and value.
Note: Products that serve a dual purpose, such as mass gainers and ketogenic powders don't include the "Protein Cost Indicator".
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