Protein this, protein that. Protein is all the rage lately, and many people are trying to fit more protein into their diets. This can be done through food alone for most people, but for others, it can be a struggle. There is a more convenient way, and that is through supplements.
The question is, what supplements? There are tons of protein supplements out there, from powders to pills and beyond. But, what if there was a water product that could also provide you with the protein you’re searching for?
In comes Protein2o, a protein water designed to provide your body with the protein it needs in an easy, simple to take way. We’ll find out if this protein water is truly all it’s cracked up to be in this detailed Protein2o review. Ready to find out if it’s worth purchasing? Let’s get started!
About Protein2o
As you can tell from the name, Protein2o is a protein water supplement. However, it is much different from other protein supplements because it is actually protein infused into water. Most protein supplements, such as Truvani, Four Sigmatic Superfood Protein, and Orgain Protein are powders. So, being a beverage option definitely allows Protein2o to stand out.
The makers of Protein2o wanted to create a product that gives users efficient protein without many calories.
Protein2o Benefits
Protein2o is simply supposed to be an easy way for active individuals to get enough protein in their daily diets. While no specific benefits are listed, a quick look on their website shows that this product is geared towards helping others recover from workouts and gain muscle, as well as reach a healthier weight.
Now, let’s take a look at what exactly is inside Protein2o.
Protein2o Ingredients
Protein2o actually has a variety of different versions:
- The original Protein2o Protein Water. This is highlighted by 15g of whey protein isolate
- Protein2o Plus versions:
- Protein2o + Electrolytes: Includes 15 to 20g of whey protein Isolate plus sodium and potassium
- Protein2o Energy: Includes 15g of whey protein isolate plus 125mg of caffeine
- Protein2o Plant Protein Drink: Highlighted by 15g of pea protein isolate
Depending on the specific product and flavor, there are other various ingredients, such as stevia, natural flavors, and related ingredients. But none of those are the focus of this article.
So, you can see that the amount of protein in these products is usually 15g, although some of the Protein Plus options contain 20g. And the main difference between the plant version versus all of the others is that it contains pea protein isolate rather than whey protein isolate.
Whey Protein Isolate
The main ingredient in most Protein2o products is whey protein isolate. Whey protein is a byproduct of the cheese-making process when the curds are separated from the whey. It contains all of the essential amino acids and has a really solid all-around nutritional profile. It is particularly high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are very effective for workout recovery.
Whey protein has many well-researched health benefits, most commonly that it improves exercise recovery and helps to build muscle and strength. But it also offers antioxidant effects, promotes satiety and helps people lose weight, and can improve various aspects of metabolic syndrome (e.g., blood pressure, cholesterol, waist circumference).
Among whey proteins, whey protein isolate is probably the best because it is the highest concentrated form of whey protein and the easiest to digest. It also contains the fewest calories.
Pea Protein Isolate
If you choose the Protein2o Plant Protein Drink, you’ll be getting protein in the form of pea protein isolate. It is often believed that whey protein is better than plant proteins, but this really isn’t the case for pea protein. Pea protein isolate contains all of the essential amino acids, including the all-important BCAAs too. However, it is pretty low in methionine, and it isn’t as high in BCAAs as whey protein. Nonetheless, pea protein is likely the most effective plant-based protein as it beats out soy and others for overall nutritional profile and effectiveness.
Pea protein is also similar to whey protein in its ability to help people recover and build muscle. Like whey, it also helps to promote feelings of fullness, reduce cholesterol and blood pressure, and offer antioxidant and other health benefits.
Electrolytes: Sodium and Potassium
Some of the Protein2o plus versions contain added electrolytes, sodium, and potassium. These are beneficial during exercise because they help strengthen nervous impulses, improve muscular contractions, and provide a better cellular environment to maintain vigorous activity. However, the number of electrolytes in this product is relatively low, so I wouldn’t expect too much of a benefit.
Caffeine
Another version of the Protein2o Plus is Protein2o Energy, which contains caffeine. Caffeine is beneficial for some people because it can improve mood, alertness, and focus due to increases in neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. It is also a central nervous system stimulant that helps to delay fatigue, increase exercise capacity, and enhance exercise performance.
Does Protein2o Work?
Overall, Protein2o should help you meet your daily protein needs and improve a few areas of your health and wellness. Regardless of which product you choose, you can be confident knowing that it is highlighted by an easily digestible, amino-acid-packed protein source. And since it contains very few other ingredients, it is low in calories too.
Claims vs. Reality
Since there weren’t any direct claims, there’s not too much to go over here. But it’s important to understand what benefits you can expect from this product. Mainly, whether you choose whey protein isolate or pea protein isolate, you can expect it to help you recover from workouts and build muscle and strength. It also may offer cardiometabolic benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as providing feelings of fullness and antioxidant effects. Both of these proteins, especially whey protein, are very well-researched, so you can be confident in these claimed benefits.
Lastly, choosing one of the Protein2o plus options, either with electrolytes or caffeine, may provide additional exercise enhancements, although it would be nothing extraordinary.
Who is Protein2o Best For?
Protein2o is best for active individuals who are looking for an easy way to get a high-quality protein source. With that being said, which product you choose depends on your unique situation.
The original Protein2o Protein Water supplement is probably the best option for most people. If you’re someone who exercises very intensely, you may consider getting the Protein2o with electrolytes option. And if you’re someone who would like more energy, the Protein2o Energy bottle may be best for you due to its caffeine content.
Finally, if you don’t tolerate dairy or follow a vegan/vegetarian diet, the Protein2o Plant Protein Drink is best for you.
Is Protein2o Safe?
All of the Protein2o products are pretty safe and have little side effects. But here are a few things to consider:
- Mild stomach discomfort, nausea, or bloating may occur in some people
- Caffeine can cause nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, agitation, elevated heart rate, and similar symptoms
Where to Buy Protein2o
If you’re interested in any of the Protein2o products, go to the following main link: https://drinkprotein2o.com/
From there, click the “Shop” icon and choose whatever option you’d like.
The original Protein2o Protein Water costs $23.99 per 12-pack. The Protein-2o Plus options cost $23.99 to $24.99, depending on which product you get. And the Protein2o Plant Protein Drink costs $33.19 to $33.99, depending on which one you get.
So, most of the options cost around 2 dollars per can, with the plant-based option costing almost $3 per can. This is more expensive than most protein products per serving, but still a decent price, especially since it’s a little more convenient than protein powders.
Additionally, there are various flavors for each of these products, and you can also choose just one flavor only or get a variety pack. So, there are plenty of options available if you’re looking to give Protein2o a go.
