Mocha Whey Protein Isolate

Mocha Whey Protein Isolate blends the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate with functional mushrooms and grass-fed whey protein. Smooth and satisfying, it offers a unique mocha taste that mixes easily into shakes, smoothies, and other recipes.

Gluten-free and soy-free, this versatile, shelf-stable powder is perfect for adding flavor and protein to your daily routine. Enjoy it as a post-workout shake, a breakfast boost, or a delicious ingredient in baked goods and desserts.

Please Note: Due to recent market conditions, whey protein prices have surged significantly beyond our control. We remain dedicated to maintaining the highest quality and will adjust prices down as soon as market values stabilize. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

It is well known that Z Natural Foods takes pride in creating and bringing our customers delicious and highly nourishing, broad-spectrum functional food blends in their most versatile form, sourced from the best foods worldwide.

Our Mocha Mushroom Whey Protein Isolate blend is a perfect example. 

While the market is flooded with a wide variety of whey protein products that simply combine a range of ingredients, we have taken the time to consider how these ingredients work together to produce a well-balanced flavor profile and effective results. Creating a nourishing whey isolate protein blend produces a shelf-stable end product with exceptional versatility.

Our mission is to provide customers with great-tasting, highly functional foods that have limitless applications in their most versatile form, supporting a variety of lifestyles. We proudly introduce the newest member of our diverse functional food line: Z Natural Foods’ Mocha Mushroom Whey Protein Isolate.

Mocha Mushroom Whey Protein Isolate

The protein powder market is flooded with a wide array of protein sources to fit every possible lifestyle and flavor profile requirement. Our customers often ask why they should choose one of our protein powder formulas over a more traditional and straightforward protein.

While both options have tremendous benefits, a protein formula provides other ingredients that may support your objectives and goals.

As you know, Z Natural Foods sells a wide array of traditional protein powders as well as unique, house-made formulas that contain protein. For example, our Vitality Blend Coffee Creamer includes collagen protein, our Optimum 30 comes in both whey and vegan protein options, and let’s not forget our newest product, Mocha Mushroom Whey Protein Isolate, just to name a few.

Protein: It does the body good.

Many foods provide us with nourishing amounts of quality protein; each is unique in its own right. One of the many nutritional qualities of whole milk is that it offers a unique blend of fast (whey) and slow-digesting (casein) proteins, allowing for maximal use of this essential macronutrient.

According to an article in the National Library of Medicine titled, Health-Related Aspects of Milk Proteins, “Casein and whey protein are the major proteins of milk. Casein constitutes approximately 80% of the total protein in bovine milk, and whey protein accounts for about 20%.

Casein is chiefly phosphate-conjugated and mainly consists of phosphate-micelle complexes. It is a heterogeneous family of 4 major components: alpha (As1 & 2 casein), beta-, gamma-, and kappa-casein.”

Whey protein is a collector of globular proteins with a high level of alpha-helix structure. The acidic, basic, and hydrophobic-hydrophilic amino acids are distributed in a reasonably balanced form. Alpha-lactalbumin and beta-lactoglobulin are the predominant whey proteins. Among other types of whey proteins, immunoglobulins, serum albumin, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and protease-peptones must be mentioned.”

Here are some fun facts about proteins and amino acids:

1. There are 20 different amino acids that your body needs for various functions.
2. Eleven of the twenty are produced by the body, called non-essential amino acids, and we must get the other nine(called essential amino acids) from food because the body can’t produce them.
3. Amino acids are organic compounds, building blocks your body uses to make protein.
4. A food is considered a complete protein when it contains all nine essential amino acids in appropriate ratios (Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan, and Valine).

Here is what we know about basic physiology and protein metabolism:

1. Proteins are not stored for later use.
2. The body converts excess protein into glucose or triglycerides to supply energy or build energy reserves.
3. When we eat a complete source of protein, the body breaks it down into amino acids to create muscle protein, along with a host of other proteins in the body for enzymatic (Enzymes are essentially protein molecules) reactions.
4. The nine essential amino acids also act as regulatory signaling molecules.

Denatured vs. Undenatured Whey Protein

Denatured protein is the alteration in the folding pattern of a protein by heat or chemical reaction from its original formation. Protein function depends on its structural shape, and heat causes proteins to vibrate, weakening the bonds that hold their complex shape.

When a protein has become denatured, it is no longer considered functional in the same elaborate manner. In simple terms, undenatured proteins are pure, properly functioning proteins without any structural deformation, intact with all bioavailable nutrients and constituents. 

We must not use the term “unprocessed” to define an undenatured protein because everything goes through some processing to create an end product. For example, whey protein isolate undergoes a precise filtration process that removes the lactose and produces an end product yielding more protein per serving with less fat and carbohydrates. 

Because no chemicals and heat were used in this process, the protein bonds were not weakened, so whey protein isolate is still considered an undenatured protein.

When you look at undenatured protein from a birds-eye view, it is easy to say that any undenatured protein will be better for you than one that is denatured. Z Natural Foods believes there is more to this question than meets the eye and depends on many other factors. Yes, undenatured protein is the purest form, containing all bioactive compounds as nature intended.

Undenatured whey protein has a wide range of components like beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, immunoglobulin, and lactoferrin. This is generally a much better choice for all intended purposes.

However, a protein that has become denatured through cooking with heat or some other process is not necessarily bad, as we often consume this form of protein. For example, a hard-boiled egg is regarded as a form of denatured protein. The heat used to make a hard-boiled egg changed its structural integrity, but it still has excellent nutritional value and all the amino acids to create a complete protein.

Another example is when we cook meat on the grill or microwave our food. These are both high-heat cooking processes that change the protein’s structural integrity. Yet, it does not change the values of being a complete protein. Athletes worldwide who prepare their meals ahead of time often use microwaves to reheat their food. Do they appear malnourished or lacking in quality protein? 

What happens when whey protein is denatured?

When whey protein becomes denatured, it loses nutrients and compounds that make undenatured whey a fantastic food, but understand that undenatured whey is much more than just protein. It is highly nourishing and provides the body with essential compounds to support and restore good health. Proteins are complex three-dimensional structures built out of amino acids. The primary cause of why whey protein becomes denatured is exposure to heat or chemicals that create an unstable protein structure through a process known as unfolding. It is important to note that this process has various degrees, and your body naturally unfolds protein through digestion. As discussed in the questions above, denatured protein is not exactly useless. Some products are purposely denatured to create a faster absorbing form of protein, like the partially denatured whey hydrolysates.

In a publication by the National Cancer Institute regarding the potential anti-cachexia (muscle wasting) and glutathione-enhancing properties of cysteine-rich, undenatured whey protein isolate, it was stated, “Upon administration of cysteine-rich whey protein isolate, cystine and glutamyl cysteine are taken up by cells and release free cysteine. The available cysteine allows cells to synthesize glutathione (GSH), a tripeptide made from amino acids glycine, glutamate, and cysteine, thereby maintaining and increasing intracellular GSH concentrations. GSH plays a significant role as an antioxidant, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage due to harmful substances such as free radicals and reactive oxygen compounds. As IMN 1207 is rich in protein, this agent may prevent weight loss and increase body weight and strength.”

What is the difference between a protein powder concentrate and an isolate?

Comparing a protein isolate and concentrate comes down to what you gain versus what you lose. As stated above, protein powder concentrates are considered the closest end product for what nature intended to provide us as a high-quality source of protein with all cofactors and constituents available for a balanced and complete source of nourishment.

The term concentrate can be misleading, as it implies that the consumer is getting a quantitatively more significant amount of protein. This is simply not the case. You are getting a more well-rounded end product with a greater spectrum of uses that may benefit overall well-being. Protein isolates are more refined products that yield a higher amount of protein with the goal of specific targeted actions and applications.

Whey protein Isolate  

1. A complete protein yielding 90% protein concentration
2. It contains no fat or carbohydrates
3. It is high in branched-chain amino acids(especially leucine).
4. It is considered an undenatured protein; however, if the raw material company uses a filtration process that uses heating components, it may denature the protein.
5. Because components like beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, immunoglobulin, and lactoferrin are proteins by definition, contrary to popular opinion, whey isolate does contain these critical cofactors.
6. Whey isolate may contain a tiny amount of lactose.

Many companies use a “natural” chocolate flavoring in their protein powders. However, here at Z Natural Foods, when we create a chocolate protein, it is with real cacao.

Cacao: The food of the gods  

Cacao, one of nature’s most wondrous creations, is revered as one of the most incredible foods on earth and valued by shamans and ethnobotanists alike.

Several compounds found in cacao, such as Theobromine and Phenylethylamine (PEA), are known to stimulate the nervous system in a healthy manner, supporting a heightened awareness and state of bliss that are highly beneficial for spiritual practices. Cacao also contains small amounts of Anandamine, known as the bliss molecule.

While we don’t fully understand all aspects of how it works, research suggests that Anandamine is part of our endocannabinoid system, binding to cannabinoid receptors and affecting brain reward circuitry and dopamine levels, acting as a behavioral reinforcer.

Anandamide is believed to contribute to the euphoric feeling associated with the runner’s high experience after intense exercise. When working synergistically with Theobromine and PEA, it can further support the sense of relaxation and happiness, allowing you to dive deeper into the realms of your consciousness.

Cacao is considered a plant ally that helps facilitate these benefits by opening the heart and centering the mind.

Alkalized aka Dutched Cacao Powder

You may have seen terms like ‘Dutch’ or ‘alkalized’ on a product label (also known as cocoa) and wondered what they mean. The process involves washing the cacao in a potassium carbonate alkaline solution. This process is done to reduce bitterness and PH levels and to neutralize the acidity, which completely changes the flavor profile of the end product. Pure cacao has a pH level of around 5-6, characterized by a sharp, bitter flavor profile.

Dutch-processed cocoa powder has a pH level of 7 and a smooth, mellow, earthy flavor profile. This neutralizing process prevents the cocoa from reacting with baking soda.

For these reasons, Dutch-processed cocoa was for a long time the more popular choice for baking. Today, people’s palates are changing as they increasingly eat dark chocolate and become lovers of natural, pure cacao.

Here at ZNF, we recognize that our chocolate goat milk whey protein blend, which utilizes alkalized cacao, may not suit those who prefer the complex, bitter profile and significantly more substantial benefits of pure cacao. However, while it is true that the natural, nonalkalized powders have the highest ORAC and total polyphenols and flavanols (including procyanidins), alkalized cacao does still contain these potent compounds, just in lower levels. The primary purpose of using an alkalized cacao is to change the flavor profile. 

Lions Mane Mushroom

Lion’s mane mushroom is well-known and studied for its neurological benefits, particularly its ability to support neurogenesis and neuroplasticity by stimulating nerve growth factor. For a quick review, neurogenesis refers to the growth and development of nerve cells, also known as nerve tissue.

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli by reorganizing its structure, functions, or connections after injuries. Simply put, the brain can change and adapt due to experiences.

Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain many bioactive compounds, including

1. Polysaccharides
2. Polypeptides
3. Beta-glucans
4. Prebiotic fiber
5. Hericenones
6. Erinacines

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain a wide range of polysaccharide compounds:

1. Polysaccharides are believed to be the primary family of compounds in mushrooms that may support a healthy aging process.
2. Mushrooms contain a wide range of non-starch polysaccharides (carbohydrate fractions excluding starch and free sugars), such as chitin, beta-glucans, alpha-glucans, hemicellulose, mannans, xylans, and galactans.
3. Non-starch polysaccharides are distinguished into soluble and insoluble fractions, with up to 90% being insoluble.
4. Most (around 80%) of insoluble polysaccharides are chitin, including beta-glucans bound to chitin or protein.
5. Polysaccharides can support a wide range of actions in the human body.
6. They have been shown to have immunological, neurogenic, cardiovascular, and microbiome effects, as well as numerous other nourishing qualities.

The Synergy of two amazing foods

How exactly does cacao enhance the effects of Lion’s Mane mushrooms? Cacao contains many properties that work as potentiators for Lion’s Mane’s powerful effects.

1. Theobromine and epicatechin, found in cacao, work as vasodilators that help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
2. Pure raw cacao contains highly nourishing fats that work to nourish the brain.   Keep in mind that Erinacines, Hericenones, Terpenoids, and Triterpenes are all fat-soluble compounds in Lion’s Mane and require a dual extraction of alcohol and water. However, adding a fat source like cacao butter acts as a carrier for the many compounds in Lion’s Mane.
3. Lion’s Mane is known to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (critical for neuronal growth and repair) while cacao flavanols reduce neuroinflammation and protect neurons from damage.
4. Cacao and Lion’s Mane both affect dopamine levels in that cacao may stimulate the release of dopamine, and Lion’s Mane works to modulate dopamine levels by stimulating its synthesis.

Cordyceps mushrooms 

Researched for its ability to support vitality and performance, strengthen the body and mind, and support a healthy stress response, this elite-level Jing tonic and superstar of the mushroom world is categorized as an actual adaptogen and revered by tonic herbalists worldwide. Sweet in flavor and warm in temperature, cordyceps is famous in TCM for nourishing both Yin and Yang, supporting the kidneys and lungs, supporting life capacity and life force reserves, and is considered a fantastic tonifier of QI. You won’t have to search far to see that cordyceps is regarded as one of the greats in Traditional Chinese Medicine, right next to Ginseng, Reishi, Deer Antlers, and Schizandra. 

Cordyceps is a treasure trove of bioactive compounds, like all other medicinal mushrooms. Some of the primary ones that have been researched and thought to create cordyceps’ “life-supporting” effects are

1. Nucleosides
2. Polysaccharides
3. Sterols
4. Amino Acids
5. Polypeptides
6. Cordycepin

The article Chemical Ingredients of Cordyceps Militaris looked at the breakdown and concentration levels of various predominant compounds found in cordyceps. It was stated, “The adenosine concentration was 0.18% in the fruiting body and 0.06% in the corpus. The cordycepin concentration was 0.97% in the fruiting body and 0.36% in the corpus. There were differences in adenosine and cordycepin contents between the fruiting body and the corpus of C. militaris. The adenosine and cordycepin concentrations in the fruiting body were approximately threefold higher than in the corpus. The adenosine concentration was lower than the concentration of cordycepin.”

1. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study using 28 individuals examined whether acute and chronic supplementation of cordyceps improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise.“After three weeks, VO2max significantly improved (p=0.042) in MR (+4.8 ml·kg−1·min−1), but not PL (+0.9 ml·kg−1·min−1). Analysis of 95% confidence intervals revealed significant improvements in TTE after 1- (+28.1 s) and three weeks (+69.8 s) in MR, but not PL, with additional improvements in VO2max (+4.8 ml·kg−1·min−1) and VT (+0.7 l·min−1) after 3 weeks.”

Therefore, it was concluded, “Acute supplementation with a cordyceps militaris containing mushroom blend may improve tolerance to high-intensity exercise; greater benefits may be elicited with consistent chronic supplementation.”

Instant Coffee Powder 

Although we are well aware of coffee’s nourishing benefits, we are only beginning to uncover the power of polyphenols in coffee and their potential benefits. However, it should not surprise you that, according to the Phenol-Explorer database, coffee was ranked #11 in the top 100 best antioxidant foods.

Maillard reaction products, which occur during the roasting process, provide all the different flavors and aromas and contribute to coffee’s antioxidant activity, which nourishes our brain, heart, and soul. Some of those include but are not limited to hydrocinnamic acids, diterpenes, trigonelline, cafestol, and melanoidin, with caffeine and chlorogenic acid being the most predominant.

Many health experts believe a diet focused on high amounts of compounds like flavonoids is critical to supporting a healthy aging process because these compounds are known as nature’s biological response modifiers. There are over 8,000 different types of flavonoids found in nature.

Based on the research, it does not seem to matter if you acquire them from food or supplements; what counts is the total daily amount you consume. These experts also recommend consuming 500 to 2000 milligrams of flavonoids daily, sourced from various foods and supplements, such as berries, cacao, and green tea. Additionally, coffee is another superstar that is already part of most people’s daily routine.

One cup of coffee provides 400-600 milligrams (12 ounces of decaffeinated coffee provides 400 milligrams) of these potent compounds, making it easier to reach your daily polyphenolic goals. According to some studies, the average American acquires around 950 mg of powerful antioxidant compounds just from their daily coffee consumption.

That means your daily Java consumption will get you halfway to your daily goal. It is also important to note that the average cup of conventional coffee provides only 92 milligrams of chlorogenic acid. However, soaking and draining the beans before roasting helps retain the polyphenolic compounds. A cup of coffee that has undergone this process provides around 172 milligrams of chlorogenic acid.

In a study discussing the effects of coffee consumption on subclinical inflammation and other risk factors for type 2 diabetes, the following was stated:

1. Coffee consumption increased coffee-derived compounds, mainly serum caffeine, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid metabolites.
2. Significant changes were also observed for serum concentrations of interleukin-18, 8-isoprostane, and adiponectin (medians: -8 %, -16 %, and 6%, respectively; consumption of 8 cups compared with 0 cups of coffee/d).
3. Serum concentrations of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein A-I increased significantly by 12%, 7%, and 4%, respectively, whereas the ratios of LDL to HDL cholesterol and of apolipoprotein B to apolipoprotein A-I decreased significantly by 8% and 9%, respectively (8 cups of coffee/d compared with 0 cups).

Therefore, the following was concluded. “Coffee consumption appears to have beneficial effects on subclinical inflammation and HDL cholesterol, whereas no changes in glucose metabolism were found in our study. Furthermore, many coffee-derived methylxanthines and caffeic acid metabolites appear to be useful as biomarkers of coffee intake.”

Summary of Important Information

Z Natural Foods hand-picks specific ingredients for our customers based on three concepts to provide the best quality product possible to support optimal well-being.

1. Versatility
2. History of safe and effective usage
3. Strong evidence of positive research outcomes in humans

Protein

1. One of the many nutritional qualities of whole milk is that it offers a unique blend of fast (whey) and slow-digesting (casein) proteins, allowing for maximal use of this essential macronutrient.
2. “Casein and whey protein are the major proteins of milk. Casein constitutes approximately 80% of the total protein in bovine milk, and whey protein accounts for about 20%.
3. Denatured protein is the alteration in the folding pattern of a protein by heat or chemical reaction from its original formation. When a protein has become denatured, it is no longer considered functional in the same elaborate manner.

Cacao: The food of the gods 

1. Theobromine and Phenylethylamine (PEA) are known to stimulate the nervous system in a healthy manner, supporting a heightened awareness and state of bliss that are highly beneficial for spiritual practices.
2. Cacao also contains small amounts of Anandamine, known as the bliss molecule. Anandamide is believed to contribute to the euphoric feeling associated with the runner’s high experienced after intense exercise.
3. When working synergistically with Theobromine and PEA, it can further support the sense of relaxation and happiness, allowing you to dive deeper into the realms of your consciousness.
4. Cacao is considered a plant ally that helps facilitate these benefits by opening the heart and centering the mind.

Lions Mane Mushroom

1. Lion’s mane mushroom is well-known and studied for its neurological benefits, particularly its ability to support neurogenesis and neuroplasticity by stimulating nerve growth factor.
2. Neurogenesis refers to the growth and development of nerve cells, also known as nerve tissue.
3. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli by reorganizing its structure, functions, or connections after injuries. Simply put, the brain can change and adapt due to experiences.

Cordyceps mushrooms 

1. Researched for its ability to support vitality and performance, strengthen the body and mind, and support a healthy stress response.
2. This elite-level Jing tonic and superstar of the mushroom world is categorized as an actual adaptogen and revered by tonic herbalists worldwide.
3. Sweet in flavor and warm in temperature, cordyceps is famous in TCM for nourishing both Yin and Yang, supporting the kidneys and lungs, supporting life capacity and life force reserves, and is considered a fantastic tonifier of QI.

Instant Coffee Powder 

1. According to the Phenol-Explorer database, coffee was ranked #11 in the top 100 best antioxidant foods.
2. Maillard reaction products, which occur during the roasting process, provide all the different flavors and aromas and contribute to coffee’s antioxidant activity, which nourishes our brain, heart, and soul.
3. Some of those include but are not limited to hydrocinnamic acids, diterpenes, trigonelline, cafestol, and melanoidin, with caffeine and chlorogenic acid being the most predominant.
4. One cup of coffee provides 400-600 milligrams (12 ounces of decaffeinated coffee provides 400 milligrams).
5. According to some studies, the average American acquires around 950 mg of potent antioxidant compounds just from their daily coffee consumption.

Our Mocha Whey Protein Isolate is instantized, with a small amount of non-GMO sunflower lecithin, which means it will mix in liquid much easier than whey concentrates not instantized.
Suggested Use:
Mix 3 level scoops (36 grams) with 8 ounces of cold water or milk and thoroughly mix in a blender, shaker, or spoon for 20-30 seconds. For best results, consume 1-2 servings daily, with one serving post-exercise. It can also be blended into your favorite smoothie.
Mixing suggestions: To increase flavor and nutritional profile, combine with our banana flakes and strawberry powder.

Miscellaneous Facts about our Mocha Whey Protein Isolate Powder

Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate (Whey Protein Isolate, Sunflower Lecithin), Organic Cacao Powder (Processed with Alkali), Organic Instant (Soluble) Coffee Powder, Organic Cordyceps Mushroom Extract (Organic Cordyceps Mushroom, Organic Maltodextrin), Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract (Organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Organic Maltodextrin), Organic Stevia Extract (Debittered).
Other Names: Bovine Whey Protein Isolate, Concentre de Proteine de Petit-Lait Bovin, Fraction de Lactoserum, Fraction de Petit-Lait, Isolat de Proteine de Lactoserum, Isolat de Proteine de Petit-Lait, Lactoserum de Lait de Chèvre, MBP, Milk Protein, Milk Protein Isolate, Mineral Whey Isolate, Proteínas del Suero de la Leche, Proteine de Lactoserum, Proteine de Lait, Proteine de Petit-Lait, Whey, Whey Fraction, Whey Peptides, Whey Isolate, WPI.
Origin: Product of USA. Formulated, blended, and packaged with care in Florida, USA.