Ingredients
Whole milk has always been perceived as a nutrient-rich product; however, competitors such as protein powders and plant-based alternatives occurred with the technological development and environmental challenges. Whole milk is dense in macronutrients: one serving contains 8g of protein, 8g of fat, 12g of carbohydrates, and gives 149 kcal of energy (WebMD, n. d.). It also contains vital micronutrients, such as phosphorus, calcium, vitamins A and B12, Selenium, Zinc, Magnesium, and Choline. Compared to whole milk, Muscle Milk powder protein is less balanced in nutrients: one serving contains 25g of protein, 2g of fat, 8g of carbohydrates, 140 kcal, and calcium as a prevalent micronutrient (Nutritionix, 2021). Muscle Milk is richer in cholesterol, yet whole milk has more sugar, and both beverages are averagely equal in the amount of sodium. Although protein mixes have become more popular for muscle growth, they have more artificial ingredients added to enhance digestibility.
Benefits
Whole milk and Muscle Milk powder protein have various advantages, and the choice should align with an individual’s nutritional purposes and conditions. Indeed, whole milk is rich in vitamin B12 and calcium, which are beneficial for human bones enforcement. Muscle Milk powders contain whey mixed with acids that improve protein synthesis necessary for muscle growth (Pinckaers et al., 2021). Furthermore, whole milk is nourishing due to a balanced amount of fat, protein, and carbohydrates per serving, and its consumption helps satisfy hunger and prevent obesity (Gómez-Cortés et al., 2018). Muscle Milk is less satisfying; however, it contains fiber beneficial for digestion. The average cost of one serving of whole milk is $0.25, and the protein powder mix has a price of $1.4.
Animal vs. Plant Protein
Plant protein and non-dairy products become a valuable alternative for people with ethical considerations or health conditions that do not allow them to consume animal products. Plant protein is made from soy, diverse seeds, and nuts; thus, its nutritional density differs. Furthermore, it lacks essential acids necessary for protein-synthesizing, and vitamin B12, which can only be taken from animal products such as meat (Hertzler et al., 2020). Animal protein is easier to digest; however, its increased consumption is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, which are prevalent causes of early death (Hertzler et al., 2020). The most beneficial approach for human health is implementing a variety of protein sources to improve digestion and developing a balanced diet with all vital nutrients.
References
Gómez-Cortés, P., Juárez, M., & de la Fuente, M. A. (2018). Milk fatty acids and potential health benefits: An updated vision. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 81, 1-9. Web.
Hertzler, S. R., Lieblein-Boff, J. C., Weiler, M., & Allgeier, C. (2020). Plant proteins: Assessing their nutritional quality and effects on health and physical function. Nutrients, 12(12), 3704. Web.
Nutritionix. (2021). Muscle Milk: Whey protein blend, unflavored. Web.
Pinckaers, P. J., Kouw, I. W., Hendriks, F. K., Van Kranenburg, J. M., De Groot, L. C., Verdijk, L. B., Snijders, T., & Van Loon, L. J. (2021). No differences in muscle protein synthesis rates following ingestion of wheat protein, milk protein, and their protein blend in healthy, young males. British Journal of Nutrition, 126(12), 1832-1842. Web.
WebMD. (n. d.). Health benefits of milk. Web.