Beyond Raw Protein

What is Beyond Raw Protein and Who Needs It?

When it comes to protein supplements, Beyond Raw Protein is one of the most popular options on the market today. But what exactly is it and who can benefit from using it?

Beyond Raw Protein is a whey protein isolate supplement made by Gaspari Nutrition. It contains 25 grams of protein per serving and is designed to support muscle growth and recovery. Whey protein isolate has gone through additional filtration processes that remove more fat, lactose, and other non-protein compounds. This leaves you with over 90% pure protein content per serving.

Protein supplements like Beyond Raw are ideal for:

• Active individuals who engage in high intensity exercise
• Athletes who want to build lean muscle mass
• Anyone looking to lose weight and manage appetite
• Vegans or vegetarians needing an extra protein source
• Older adults who struggle to eat adequate protein

Consuming enough protein is crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass. It also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer after meals. But not everyone can meet their daily protein needs through whole food sources alone. That’s where a high-quality protein powder can help bridge the gap.

Now let’s dive into all the nitty gritty details about Beyond Raw Protein that you need to know before buying it!

How Does Beyond Raw Protein Work?

To understand how Beyond Raw Protein works, you first need to understand what whey protein isolate is.

Whey protein isolate contains high concentrations of the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These specific amino acids are known as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). They play a key role in muscle protein synthesis – or your ability to build and repair muscle tissue.

When you consume whey protein isolate, the amino acids are quickly absorbed and delivered to your muscles. This puts your muscles in an anabolic (muscle-building) state. The BCAA leucine is especially important here. It activates a pathway called mTOR that signals your body to start creating new muscle proteins.

In addition to leucine, whey protein provides all nine essential amino acids needed to stimulate muscle growth. Consuming it before or after exercise helps decrease muscle protein breakdown. And taking whey protein between meals may help control appetite by keeping you feeling fuller longer.

So in summary, Beyond Raw Protein works by supplying your muscles with highly bioavailable amino acids that enhance protein synthesis, speed up recovery, and support lean muscle mass gains. The more protein you can incorporate around workouts and meals, the better results you’ll see.

Examining the Ingredient List in Beyond Raw Protein

When shopping for a protein powder, it’s important to look beyond just the protein source. The ingredient list will reveal a lot about the overall quality of the product.

Here are the key ingredients you’ll find in Beyond Raw Protein:

• Whey Protein Isolate: The main protein source, providing 25g protein per 32g serving. Made by isolating the protein from whey, which is the liquid byproduct of cheese production. Whey isolate is over 90% protein by weight.
• Coco MCT Powder: Provides an energy source from fatty acids called MCTs. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides. They can be used for fuel by the brain and muscles. Coco MCT comes from coconut oil.
• L-Leucine: This is the most abundant BCAA found in whey protein. Added leucine provides extra muscle-building stimulus.
• L-Glutamine: This conditionally essential amino acid supports muscle recovery and immune health. Intense exercise can lower glutamine levels, so supplementing is beneficial.
• Lactase: An enzyme that helps improve digestion and reduce lactose content. Lactase breaks down milk sugar (lactose) into simpler sugars.
• Stevia Leaf Extract: A natural sweetener that contains no calories or artificial ingredients. Stevia adds light sweetness with zero effects on blood sugar.

The ingredient list for Beyond Raw Protein is fairly straight-forward. No unnecessary fillers or additives. Just high-quality protein and muscle-supporting ingredients like branched-chain amino acids.

Is Beyond Raw Protein Safe? Potential Side Effects and Safety Information

Whenever you’re considering trying a new supplement, safety should be your top concern. So is Beyond Raw Protein safe? What are the potential side effects and safety considerations?

The good news is that whey protein is one of the most well-researched sports nutrition ingredients available. Studies consistently show that it’s safe for consumption and effective for supporting exercise performance and body composition goals.

However, there are some potential side effects to keep in mind:

• Digestive discomfort: Too much protein powder at once can sometimes cause bloating, gas, cramping, or diarrhea. This is most likely in lactose intolerant individuals. Beyond Raw contains lactase enzymes to improve digestion.
• Increased thirst and appetite: Higher protein intake often leads to increased thirst. Staying well hydrated is key. A suppressed appetite can also wane over time as your body adapts to the higher protein intake.
• Kidney problems: There was once concern that high protein diets could tax the kidneys. But current research shows that this isn’t a concern in people with healthy kidneys. Check with your doctor first if you have existing kidney issues though.

To minimize potential side effects, pay close attention to serving sizes and follow usage instructions. Slowly introduce Beyond Raw into your diet and see how your body responds. Stay well hydrated and don’t exceed the recommended one scoop per serving.

As far as safety goes, whey protein has been granted Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status by the FDA. But always check with your doctor before trying any new supplement, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or take prescription medications.

What Are the Key Benefits of Taking Beyond Raw Protein?

Beyond Raw Protein offers many benefits that can enhance your active lifestyle and support your physique goals. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect to enjoy:

• Builds lean muscle: Whey protein isolate is considered the king of muscle-building proteins. The amino acids in Beyond Raw rapidly increase protein synthesis. Taking it consistently, especially around workouts, will support muscle growth over time.
• Recover faster: Consuming whey protein after exercise helps replenish nutrients lost through sweat and muscle breakdown. This puts your body in the optimal state for repairing and rebuilding muscle tissue.
• Torch fat: Whey protein is very effective for managing hunger. By keeping you fuller longer, Beyond Raw can help decrease overall calorie intake and encourage fat loss. The amino acids in whey also help preserve and build calorie-burning lean muscle mass.
• Get stronger: More muscle means more strength. Beyond Raw provides the right nutrients to help you recover from intense strength training workouts. Over time, your one rep maxes are sure to increase across all your big lifts.
• Enhance athletic performance: Proper post-workout protein intake reduces muscle damage and soreness. This allows athletes to bounce back faster and perform at their best during competition. Beyond Raw is ideal for supporting any active lifestyle.
• Improve body composition: With the muscle-building and fat-burning powers of whey protein isolate, Beyond Raw gives your physique an overall lean and athletic look. Improved body composition means looking and feeling your best.

When and How Should I Take Beyond Raw Protein?

To get the most out of Beyond Raw Protein, proper dosing and timing is key. Here are some tips for taking it correctly:

• Take 1 scoop (32g) per serving. This provides 25g protein – the ideal amount for maximizing muscle protein synthesis in one sitting.
• Consume around workouts. Have a scoop 30-60 minutes pre-workout and another scoop within 30 minutes post-workout. This braces your muscles with nutrients and then refuels them afterward.
• Use between meals. If you need help controlling hunger and food intake, a scoop of Beyond Raw between meals helps keep cravings at bay.
• Mix with 12-16 oz water or milk. Use a blender bottle or shaker cup to mix one scoop with water, almond milk, cow’s milk, or your milk of choice. Beyond Raw blends easily for a smooth shake.
• Consider adding fruit or greens. To make a more nutrient-dense smoothie, throw in some frozen berries, a banana, peanut butter, spinach, or other ingredients you enjoy. Make it a meal!
• Don’t exceed 3-4 scoops daily. Consuming excess protein powder won’t provide additional benefits. Four servings spaced out through your day is plenty.

Finding the schedule and portions that work for your body and goals may take some trial and error. The key is consistency with using Beyond Raw Protein over time to see the best muscle-building, fat-burning results.

How Long Does it Take to See Results with Beyond Raw Protein?

Beyond Raw Protein contains high concentrations of muscle-building amino acids. But how long does it actually take to experience results with consistent use? Here’s a realistic timeline:

• 1-2 weeks: Improved energy levels and recovery should be noticeable within a week or two. You’ll likely finish workouts stronger and feel less sore afterward. These are the initial effects of supplying your body with amino acids it’s missing.
• 4 weeks: Muscle size and strength gains become evident around the one month mark. Using Beyond Raw properly around workouts provides a consistent anabolic stimulus. In as little as a month, you’ll notice bigger muscles and can lift heavier weight.
• 8 weeks: This is when the fat-burning effects really start to shine. Taking Beyond Raw between meals helps control hunger hormones long term. Less overeating means losing unwanted body fat, revealing your new muscle mass.
• 12 weeks: After 3 months of proper supplementation plus consistent training and nutrition, you’ll look remarkably different. Friends and family will start asking what you’re doing differently. With Beyond Raw Protein, you maximize the results of all your hard work in the gym.

Remember – Beyond Raw isn’t just about building bigger muscles. It provides joint support for injury prevention as well. Proper protein intake also optimizes hormone levels. So benefits extend far beyond just looking jacked! Be patient and stick with it. The results are worth it.

Can Beyond Raw Protein Help You Build Muscle?

Yes! In fact, building muscle is one of the primary benefits of taking Beyond Raw Protein. Here’s a closer look at why and how it works:

• Leucine triggers muscle growth. As mentioned earlier, leucine is the powerhouse amino acid for turning on mTOR activity. This kickstarts muscle protein synthesis.
• Rapidly digested. Whey protein isolate absorbs very quickly compared to other forms of protein. Amino acids are delivered to muscles ASAP for immediate rebuilding.
• Bioavailability. Whey isolate has a high biochemical value, meaning your body can efficiently utilize it for muscle growth. The aminos are put to use rather than wasted.
• Supports recovery. Recovering properly is key to building muscle long-term. Beyond Raw provides the right nutrients to bounce back from intense training.
• Prevents muscle breakdown. Consuming protein before and after workouts helps put muscles in an anabolic state so they stop breaking down and start building up.
• Lean gains. Whey isolate boosts muscle growth with less fat and carbs than other proteins. You gain mostly lean mass.

Follow the dosage and timing instructions provided earlier to maximize Beyond Raw’s muscle-building capabilities. Make sure your workouts are on point and include plenty of progressive overload as well. Combining smart supplementation with hard training is the recipe for incredible muscle gains.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Beyond Raw Protein?

As discussed earlier, whey protein is considered very safe for most healthy individuals. However, there are some possible side effects to keep in mind:

• Bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea
• Increased thirst and appetite
• Acne or skin breakouts
• Joint pain
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Kidney problems in those predisposed
• Interactions with certain medications

The most common problem is digestive discomfort. Too much protein at once can overwhelm the digestive system. Beyond Raw contains added lactase to help combat this. Still, side effects are always possible even with minimal ingredients.

Other possible issues like acne, kidney problems, nausea, etc are much rarer. If any side effects become severe or persistent, discontinue use and consult your doctor. To minimize chances of adverse effects, follow serving guidelines closely and see how your body responds before increasing dosage.

As with any supplement, your individual response could vary. Listen to your body. Stay adequately hydrated. And talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about taking Beyond Raw Protein or experience unpleasant symptoms.

What Do Customer Reviews Say About Beyond Raw Protein?

Looking at reviews is always a smart idea before trying any new supplement. Here’s what customers have been saying about their experiences using Beyond Raw Protein:

• “Best protein I’ve used by far. Mixes easily and tastes great!”
• “Really helps with muscle soreness after tough workouts. Recovery is much faster.”
• “Greater strength and stamina! I can workout harder and longer now.”
• “It curbs my appetite for hours. Love taking it between meals.”
• “Easy on my stomach. No more protein bloat like other brands.”
• “Helped me gain 10 pounds of solid muscle mass over 2 months!”
• “Tried every flavor and they’re all delicious. Chocolate is my favorite.”

The average rating for Beyond Raw Protein on most supplement sites is a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Customers report better recovery, increased muscle gains, effective appetite control, and smooth digestion.

Flavors get rave reviews for both taste and mixability. The few negative reviews cite lack of results from not using it properly. But used as recommended, most users agree Beyond Raw Protein delivers awesome benefits.

Where Can I Buy Beyond Raw Protein Powder?

Beyond Raw Protein is sold by many online supplement retailers. But here are some of the best places to buy it:

• Direct on the Gaspari Nutrition Website: Ordering directly from the maker gives you the freshest product with fastest shipping and delivery. Use discount codes for the best deal.
• Amazon: Convenient shopping and super fast 2-day Prime delivery makes Amazon a top choice. Price competitively with coupon codes available.
• Bodybuilding.com: Reliable supplement mega-store with full Beyond Raw line in stock. Use their coupons for 10-20% off.
• GNC: Found in malls and shopping centers across the U.S. Pick up in store or order online for in-store pickup. Higher prices than online stores.
• Vitamin Shoppe: Another nationwide chain with brick-and-mortar shops. Decent prices and bargain bins available.

For cheapest prices, buying direct from the maker or bigger online retailers usually wins. But for convenience, can’t beat the major supplement chains. Use their rewards programs to save on future purchases.

How Much Does Beyond Raw Protein Cost?

When shopping for supplements, cost always comes into play. Here’s the price breakdown on Beyond Raw Protein:

• 2 lb tub: $45-60 per 2 lb tub containing 29 servings
• 5 lb tub: $90-110 per 5 lb tub containing 74 servings
• Single-serving packets: $2-3 per packet (more expensive per serving)

So if you buy in bulk on the 5 lb tub, each 32g serving comes out to $1.20 – $1.50. Very reasonable compared to other whey proteins considering the quality. Servings per container and cost per serving varies slightly by flavor.

Coupons can bring these prices down further. Gaspari Nutrition routinely offers 15-25% discounts on their website. And major retailers run sales and offersite-wide promo codes as well.

One trick is to buy protein in rotation with a few different brands and types to take advantage of coupon codes. Mix up your protein sources and save money in the process.

While not the absolute cheapest protein powder, Beyond Raw provides premium value at this price point. The exceptional quality is well worth the reasonable cost per serving.

Can Beyond Raw Protein Help With Weight Loss or Weight Management?

Many people take whey protein like Beyond Raw Protein to build muscle. But it can also be highly effective for fat loss and weight management. Here’s how it helps:

• Appetite control – Whey is the most satiating protein source. Beyond Raw will keep you feeling fuller between meals, leading to less overeating and snacking on empty calories.
• Increases energy expenditure – The high thermic effect of protein requires your body to burn more energy digesting it compared to carbs or fat. This leads to greater calorie burn.
• Preserves or builds calorie-burning muscle – Protein helps counteract muscle loss when dieting. By supporting lean muscle retention (or growth), your daily calorie burn stays higher.
• Helps stabilize blood sugar – Spikes and crashes in blood sugar can ravage diets by causing intense hunger and cravings. Whey protein helps keep blood sugar stable.
• Reduces appetite hormones – Protein lowers levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin while increasing appetite-suppressing hormones like GLP-1 and PYY.

So if you’re cutting or reducing body fat, Beyond Raw Protein makes the perfect addition. Follow the usage tips provided earlier for optimal results. Just be sure your overall diet and training are aligned for fat loss too.

Is It Safe to Take Beyond Raw Protein with Other Supplements?

Beyond Raw Protein contains just protein, amino acids, and enzymes. So it’s safe to combine with most other sports supplements without issues. Some beneficial stack options include:

• Creatine – Creatine paired with protein further enhances strength and muscle gains. Take creatine before workouts and Beyond Raw after.
• BCAAs – Since Beyond Raw already contains BCAAs, you generally don’t need extra. But an intra-workout BCAA drink would provide added benefits.
• Carb powder – For energy and glycogen recovery, add some fast-digesting carbs to your post-workout shake.
• Pre-workout – A pre-workout will fuel intense training to complement Beyond Raw for muscle growth afterward.
• Coffee – Caffeine helps increase alertness and endurance. Having coffee and protein makes a great pre-workout combo.
• Multivitamin – Whey protein provides plenty of amino acids but no vitamins or minerals. Add a daily multivitamin to fill nutritional gaps.

The main caution is to not overdo total protein intake. Excess protein cannot be stored and is either oxidized for energy or excreted. Four scoops of Beyond Raw per day split into different meals is plenty.

Available Flavors and Taste Reviews

Beyond Raw Protein comes in a wide variety of unique flavor options. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available along with taste reviews:

Chocolate – Rich, smooth chocolate flavor. Mixes easily. Great shake base.

Vanilla – Classic creamy vanilla taste. Subtle and inoffensive flavor profile preferred by many.

Strawberry – Bright, sweet strawberry flavor. Fruity and refreshing post-workout option.

Banana Cream – Delicious banana flavor with a pleasant, creamy aftertaste. Unique option.

Pineapple Coconut – Tropical pineapple coconut flavor. Not overly sweet. Nice change of pace.

Salted Caramel – Sweet caramel with touch of salt. Delicious treat if you have a sweet tooth.

Cinnamon Danish – Authentic cinnamon danish flavor. Sweet cinnamon taste may be overpowering for some.

Cookies and Cream – Can’t go wrong with this classic flavor. Tastes like an Oreo cookie milkshake.

Mocha – For the coffee lovers! Rich mocha flavor provides an energy boost.

Unflavored – For the purists. Mixes easily with whatever you want to flavor your shake.

No matter your taste preference, there’s a Beyond Raw Protein flavor you’re sure to love. Try a few to find your go-to. But most flavors mix smoothly and taste great.

Does Beyond Raw Protein Contain Common Allergens?

Beyond Raw Protein is formulated from whey isolate and contains milk, soy, and coconut. Here is the allergen information:

• Milk – Contains whey protein isolate which is derived from milk. Not suitable for those with milk allergies.
• Soy – Lecithin is used as an emulsifier. Avoid if you have a soy allergy.
• Coconut – Some flavors like Pineapple Coconut contain coco MCT powder from coconuts. Allergic individuals should avoid.
• Eggs, wheat, shellfish – Beyond Raw Protein is free of any egg, wheat, and shellfish ingredients.

So those with milk, soy, or coconut allergies should avoid this product. People who are lactose intolerant should be okay using it, as Beyond Raw is over 90% lactose-free and contains added lactase enzymes. But everyone responds differently.

Carefully check labels and ingredient lists before purchasing. If you have food allergy concerns, consult your healthcare provider first before using Beyond Raw Protein.

Who Should Not Use Beyond Raw Protein?

While whey protein is generally safe for most healthy adults, there are a few instances where Beyond Raw Protein may be inappropriate:

• Pregnant or nursing women – Talk to your OB-GYN first before using while pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Teenagers or children – Unless recommended by a doctor, those under 18 should avoid supplementation.
• Individuals with kidney disease – Get medical advice before trying a high protein supplement with compromised kidney function.
• Anyone with a milk allergy – Due to the whey protein isolate, those allergic to milk proteins should steer clear.
• People on medication – Check for interactions if you take any prescription meds, especially diabetes drugs that can be affected by added protein intake.
• Anyone new to exercise – Don’t start taking protein powder if you have been mostly sedentary. Talk to your doctor first.

While protein supplements are usually fine for most populations, talk to your healthcare provider first if you have any concerns. They will let you know if Beyond Raw Protein is appropriate for your individual health status and needs.

How Does Beyond Raw Protein Compare to Other Protein Powders?

So how does Beyond Raw stack up to other protein supplement options? Here’s a quick comparison:

• Whey concentrate – Lower protein content per scoop (80% vs. 90%+). Good value but more lactose.
• Whey isolate – Other isolates equal in protein content. Beyond Raw adds extra leucine and probiotics.
• Casein – Slower digesting than whey. Better for overnight recovery but not pre/post workout.
• Egg protein – Also fast-digesting with decent amino profile. Not vegan friendly and contains less leucine than whey.
• Plant proteins – Vegan options like soy, pea, rice, and hemp. Various amino acid profiles and slower digestion.
• Weight gainers – Packed with calories, carbs, fats on top of protein. Better for bulking than lean muscle gains.

Among the most popular protein powders available, Beyond Raw holds its own by offering a top-notch whey isolate formula with added ingredients to support muscle growth. It provides a superior amino acid profile for the price compared to most competitors.

Is Beyond Raw Protein Suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians?

Beyond Raw Protein is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. Here’s why:

• It’s a whey protein made from dairy. Whey comes from the liquid byproduct of cheese manufacturing.
• The whey isolate undergoes additional filtering and processing that requires the use of non-vegan ingredients.
• Some flavors contain coco MCT powder derived from coconuts. Coconut products are avoided by strict vegan diets.
• It also contains lecithin as an emulsifier. Lecithin often comes from egg yolks, which are animal-derived.
• While lactose-free, the whey still comes from cow’s milk – animal source.

So for both vegans and vegetarians alike, Beyond Raw Protein would not align with their dietary preferences or restrictions. There are plenty of suitable vegan protein powders available though, like pea, hemp, rice, or soy proteins.

What’s the Ideal Beyond Raw Protein Dosage?

As mentioned earlier in this guide, here are the ideal dosage recommendations for Beyond Raw Protein:

• 1 scoop (32 grams) is one serving size
• Take a maximum of 3-4 servings per day
• Consume one serving 30-60 minutes pre-workout
• Have another serving within 30 minutes after training
• On rest days, use between meals to control hunger
• Mix each serving with 12-16 ounces water, milk, or non-dairy milk
• Adjust serving size or frequency to suit your individual needs

Sticking within 3-4 servings daily ensures you gain maximum benefits without consuming excess protein beyond what your body can use. Properly timing servings around workouts and meals is key as well.

Pay close attention to how your body responds. Increase servings gradually if needed to determine ideal dosage and timing. Everyone is different, so finding what works for your goals takes some personalization.

The Bottom Line on Beyond Raw Protein

After reviewing the main pros and cons, here’s the 411 on whether Beyond Raw Protein lives up to its claims and is worth buying:

Pros

• 25 grams protein from fast-absorbing whey isolate
• Added leucine to further boost muscle protein synthesis
• Contains probiotics for better digestion
• Natural ingredients – no artificial sweeteners or dyes
• Delicious flavors that mix easily
• Lab-tested for safety and purity
• Positive reviews back up effects for muscle gain and fat loss

Cons

• Contains milk, soy, and coconut – not suitable for dietary restrictions
• Digestive issues possible in some (though less likely)
• Need to consume consistently to see muscle-building effects
• Among the more premium-priced protein powders

Overall, Beyond Raw Protein is a stellar choice if you want a top quality whey isolate focused on better muscle repair and recovery. The smart additions like extra leucine provide an edge missing from basic whey proteins.

It’s backed by positive customer reviews, lab testing, and a strong reputation built by Gaspari Nutrition. While not the most budget-friendly, you get what you pay for – which is clean, high-value protein ideal for supporting fitness goals.

Putting it All Together

Beyond Raw Protein is a high-quality whey isolate protein powder designed by Gaspari Nutrition to provide optimized amino acid content for accelerated muscle protein synthesis.

It harnesses the power of added branched chain amino acids, particularly leucine, to put your body in an anabolic state ideal for muscle building, strength improvements, and faster recovery. Multiple servings spaced throughout the day brace your muscles before training and refuel them afterward.

Backed by lab testing and thousands of positive reviews, Beyond Raw Protein delivers exceptional protein quality with zero junk ingredients. While not cheap, it provides premium value for supporting lean muscle gain and body composition improvements.

Carefully follow the serving guidelines and proper timing around workouts and meals to achieve the best results. Beyond Raw Protein is most effective when combined with regular strength training that forces muscles to adapt by growing bigger and stronger over time.

If you’re looking for a top-notch protein powder to complement an active lifestyle and muscle building workout routine, Beyond Raw deserves strong consideration. It has all the hallmarks of an elite protein supplement and will take your progress and performance to the next level.