The Champion's Choice: CBUM Itholate Protein
For an athlete of Chris Bumstead's caliber, every nutritional decision is critical. When it comes to protein supplementation, his choice is not a secret but a product of his own design: CBUM Itholate Protein. This premium whey protein isolate, created in collaboration with the sports nutrition brand RAW, reflects Bumstead's high standards for quality, digestibility, and effectiveness. As a partner and co-owner of RAW Nutrition, Bumstead has a direct hand in product development, ensuring the supplements meet the demands of elite-level bodybuilding.
What is Whey Protein Isolate?
Protein powders are not all created equal, and the type of protein can significantly impact its benefits. CBUM Itholate is a whey isolate, a form of whey protein that undergoes extensive processing known as micro-filtration. This process purifies the whey by removing most of the lactose, fat, and carbohydrates, resulting in a product with a very high protein percentage. The benefits of a high-quality whey isolate like Itholate include:
- Higher Purity: With fillers and additives removed, you get more protein per scoop.
- Faster Absorption: Isolate is rapidly digested and absorbed by the body, delivering amino acids to muscles quickly after a workout to kickstart recovery.
- Improved Digestion: The low lactose content makes it a more suitable option for those who experience digestive issues with regular whey concentrate.
- Lean Macro Profile: Its low fat and carb content makes it ideal for athletes like Bumstead, who need precise control over their macronutrients, especially during a cutting phase.
Why CBUM Chooses Itholate
Bumstead's reliance on his signature Itholate protein isn't just a marketing move; it's a strategic part of his nutritional regimen. As a competitor who must meet strict weight class requirements in the Classic Physique division, having a clean, reliable protein source is non-negotiable.
Key features of CBUM Itholate that align with a champion's needs:
- 25g Protein per Scoop: A consistent, high dose of protein helps meet the elevated demands for muscle repair and growth.
- Grass-Fed Source: Sourcing from grass-fed cows is often associated with higher quality and cleaner nutrition, aligning with a broader emphasis on health and well-being.
- Flavor and Mixability: Bumstead and RAW have prioritized creating delicious flavors with excellent mixability, making it a treat rather than a chore to consume post-workout or throughout the day.
CBUM Itholate vs. Other Protein Powders
To understand why a champion opts for a specific type of protein, a comparison is helpful. Here’s how CBUM Itholate measures up against more common whey protein options.
| Feature | CBUM Itholate (Whey Isolate) | Generic Whey Concentrate | Plant-Based Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Content | Very High (25g per scoop) | Moderate (varies, but often lower) | Varies (often lower per serving) |
| Digestion Speed | Very Fast | Fast | Varies (often slower due to fiber) |
| Fat & Carb Content | Very Low / Trace | Higher (contains more lactose) | Varies (often contains more carbs) |
| Purity | 100% Micro-filtered | Standard filtering | Can vary widely |
| Lactose Content | Minimal | Higher | None |
| Ideal For | Cutting, post-workout, sensitive digestion | General protein supplementation | Vegans, dairy intolerance |
Beyond the Protein: The Complete Supplement Stack
While protein powder is a staple, Bumstead’s success is built on a comprehensive nutrition and supplementation strategy. His partnership with RAW Nutrition extends beyond just protein, highlighting the importance of a well-rounded approach. Other supplements in his stack have included:
- Creatine Monohydrate: A highly researched supplement known for its ability to increase muscle strength, power, and size.
- Pre-Workout: Products like his own 'Thavage' pre-workout are used to enhance energy, focus, and performance during intense training sessions.
- Omega-3 Fish Oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s aid in recovery and support joint health, which is critical for a bodybuilder's intense training regimen.
- Essential Amino Acids (EAAs): Often taken intra-workout to prevent muscle breakdown and support protein synthesis.
This multi-faceted approach shows that relying on a single supplement isn't enough; a strategic combination, along with a disciplined whole-food diet, is necessary for achieving elite results.
Making Your Own Choice
Following a champion’s lead is a good starting point, but individual needs vary. When considering a protein powder, whether it's CBUM's specific isolate or another brand, several factors should guide your decision:
- Assess Your Goals: Are you cutting, bulking, or just looking to increase daily protein intake? The best protein powder depends on your specific macro goals.
- Consider Digestive Needs: If you have lactose sensitivity, a whey isolate or plant-based protein will be a better choice than a concentrate.
- Evaluate Your Budget: While high-purity isolates offer benefits, they can be more expensive. For some, a quality whey concentrate may be sufficient and more cost-effective.
- Read the Ingredients: Always check the ingredients list for added fillers, artificial sweeteners, or potential allergens, as some blends may contain them.
- Taste Preference: With a wide variety of flavors on the market, finding one you enjoy is crucial for consistent use. As CBUM's flavors like Cinnamon Crunch are known to be delicious, this is an important factor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when asking what protein powder does CBUM take?, the definitive answer is the CBUM Itholate Protein he developed with RAW Nutrition. This choice is no accident but a result of meticulous planning and a deep understanding of nutritional science. The product, a high-quality, grass-fed, micro-filtered whey isolate, delivers a clean, fast-absorbing source of protein critical for his training and recovery. While his signature protein powder is a key component, his full stack also includes other performance supplements like creatine and pre-workout, emphasizing that optimal nutrition is a multi-layered commitment. For those inspired by the champion, understanding his supplement choices provides a valuable roadmap, though it should be tailored to fit your own unique fitness journey and goals. For more on high-performance sports nutrition, you can explore the RAW Nutrition website.
