Optimum Protein Powder Nutritional Information

If you exercise and strength train often, you may want to drink a protein shake to give you extra energy. Optimum Nutrition offers the Complete Protein Diet, and according to its website, the protein powder will increase the dieter's metabolism. The mix is available in chocolate and vanilla flavors and can be purchased in a 40-serving container. You can mix the powder with either water or low-fat milk; water is the best choice to avoid excess calories.

History

• Otpimum Nutrition is an Illinois-based company that was started by Tony and Michael Costello in 1986. According to optimumnutrition.com, the company was initially known as Costello's Health Distributors. As of 2009, Optimum Nutrition products are sold at a variety of health and fitness stores throughout the United States and online.

Calories

• A serving of Optimum Nutrition Complete Protein Diet equals two scoops or 48 grams. Each drink contains 200 calories with 45 calories from fat. The drink holds 8 percent of the recommended daily fat allowance and presents 1 gram---or 5 percent---saturated fat. If you are drinking the mix with milk, take the caloric value of the milk into consideration.

Cholesterol and Sodium

• The protein powder is low in sodium, offering 120 mg or 5 percent of the recommended allowance per serving. On the other hand, Optimum boasts 40 mg of cholesterol---13 percent of the daily amount.

Carbohydrates and Protein

• Optimum protein powder is an excellent choice if you are cutting back on carbs, as it contains only 3 grams in every serving. The drink is packed with protein when mixed with water and offers 35 grams.

Vitamins and Minerals

• The protein supplement provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, and optimumnutrition.com advises that a total of 26 are available. One serving offers over 50 percent of B vitamins in addition to vitamins E and K. Niacin and vitamin C are available at levels of 100 percent of your daily needs. In addition, Optimum Nutrition protein powder provides 40 percent of selenium, calcium and zinc.

Considerations

• Drink Optimum Nutrition protein powder in moderation. The fat content is high, and saturated fat should be consumed in limited amounts. Always consult your physician before introducing protein powder to your diet to ensure it does not have any negative impacts on medications you may be taking. If you are allergic to milk, eggs or soy, do not use the Optimum Complete Protein Diet.