Individual serving packs of Pr+ A Smarter Whey. © Andrew Reimann / Cyclocross Magazine
The idea of good nutrition is often turned into fads. The focus on avoiding all kinds of fats in the 80s turned to a focus on avoiding calories in the late 90s, and lately in the media, sugar has come heaviest under attack. Even on a food specific level there are examples abound, such as the beet craze of several years ago that since moved to using kale in everything.
However, there are some trends that have remained consistent over time. Most nutritionists widely accept that protein is an essential part of athlete nutrition in the recovery process. However, within 30 minutes to an hour of a cyclocross race, we usually are not hunting for either a can of beans or a big chunk of meat while we watch the rest of the races play out for the day.
Michael Scarbrough, president of Sport Science Nutrition, reached out to me earlier in the summer to offer a post-workout drink option with Pr+ A Smarter Whey. His proprietary blend includes 26g of whey protein, alongside 250mg of Aminogen to aid digestion, as he notes on his website that higher levels of protein often come with the unwanted side effect of bloating.
Interestingly enough, the heavy marketing campaign of the Pr+ targets those over 40 years of age, which calls on the muscle’s reduced response to workload as the body ages. Although I can participate in the Baby Masters age group of 30-34 at Cyclocross Nationals, I am almost a decade out of their targeted demographic. Still, as protein is still very beneficial to athletes even below their 40s, it is still a product we are interested in exploring.
The Pr+ comes in three flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla Crème and Cappuccino, with a recommended 38g individual serving that can be mixed with water or milk. The 19.2 oz container is $39.95, with individual serving packets going for $2.95.
Stay tuned for our full review.
More Info: sportsciencenutrition.com
