We're back again at Legit Supplement Reviews, and this time I'm going to review 1st Phorm Phormula-1 Protein Powder, a whey isolate protein powder. Most likely you know that it's definitely on the premium side, and with that comes a higher price point.
I am not sponsored by 1st Phorm, nor do I aspire to be. I do, however, listen to Andy Frisella's podcast "Real AF" and I like to support pro-freedom brands, unless their products suck. And I'll always be the judge of that after I try it.
Probably the only knock I have on 1st Phorm at this point is that they have these legionairres (basically affiliates) that are really corny on social media trying to promote their products. I get it - they want to make money and help people reach their fitness goals through 1st Phorm's supplements, but I just don't like the MLM-ish type of marketing... reminds me of beachbody (double thumbs down 👎👎)!
That being said, this review will not be any of that crap. I'll present the facts to you and give you exactly what I like and don't like about Phormula-1, much like I did with Level-1.
I decided to try 1st Phorm Phormula-1 about a year ago in 2022. I've been using protein powder supplements dating back to my high school football days and through college. Hard to say this, but that was like 20 years ago... WTF happened!?!? And, since I still workout to keep my body looking good for my beautiful wife, I continue to take protein powder supplements.
My point is, I know protein powders inside and out. I'm very picky about the taste, texture and mixability. So, here are my thoughts. I'll have button links at different points of the article to go shop directly at 1st Phorm.
Key Takeaways Before Buying
Phormula-1 Product Description
1st Phorm’s Phormula-1 protein powder claims it’s the best tasting protein out there. The company also claims that their product mixes better than the competition’s products. They even go so far as to say that you’re going to feel the results immediately after using it. It sounds like a promising product, and there are a lot of positive reviews listed on the 1st Phorm website that support these various claims.
1st Phorm recommends that you use their Phormula-1 protein with their Ignition supplement. Ignition is a glycogen replenishment product that helps boost your energy and deliver protein directly to your muscles, so you can experience a faster recovery time.
The Formula
Phormula-1 is made with whey protein isolate and contains approximately 20 grams of protein per serving. 1st Phorm manufactures their protein with the highest quality whey protein fractions, according to their website. They use a low-temperature processing method to produce microfiltrated whey protein isolate that claims to increase your assimilation speed and amino acid retention.
There are 12 different flavors available, with many of them being very unique. You have your standard vanilla milkshake and chocolate milkshake varieties, but there are also cherry lime, key lime pie, magical charms and root beer float, to name a few. Unfortunately, the sugar content of this product is questionable. The ingredient list states that there is sugar in Phormula-1, but it claims there is zero sugar in each serving. Also, sucralose is added as a sweetener.
Macros
1st Phorm Phormula-1 contains 20 grams of protein per serving (some flavors contain 21 grams), 2 to 3 grams of carbs depending on the flavor, and 0 to 1 gram of fat.
Micros
Micronutrient amounts vary from flavor to flavor, but you’ll find approximately 110mg of calcium and 170mg of potassium in each serving.
Who Is Phormula-1 Best For?
Phormula-1 has the potential to be used as a pre-workout as well as a post-workout. It can provide you with the energy that you need to perform, but it also has the potential to speed up your recovery period so that you can get back to peak physical performance as quickly as possible.
Because whey isolate protein is used in Phormula-1, you may be able to tolerate this product if you’re sensitive to dairy and/or lactose.
Mixability: How Does It Mix?
Supposedly, this is one of the best-mixing protein powders out there (according to 1st Phorm and a number of customer reviews). If you’ve used protein before, you know that mixability is really important. There are too many protein powders out there that end up being clumpy or gritty.
One scoop of Phormula-1 mixes with six ounces of water. You can use 2 scoops of the product in 12 ounces of water if you’re using it as a post-workout supplement.
Taste: How Does It Taste?
You have a lot of flavors to choose from, which is nice. Some people just prefer to use a basic chocolate or vanilla protein powder, which are both available in “milkshake” form from 1st Phorm. There are also some really unique flavors to choose from, but you might pick up on the sucralose in this product if you’re someone who doesn’t like the taste of artificial sweeteners.
When’s The Best Time to Take Phormula-1?
1st Phorm has separate recommendations for men and women when it comes to the use of Phormula-1.
These recommendations include:
- Men as a Pre-Workout: One scoop of Phormula-1 should be mixed with 6 ounces of water. If you’re also using Ignition, add in ½ scoop of that supplement.
- Men as a Post-Workout: Two scoops of Phormula-1 should be mixed with 12 ounces of water. If you’re also using Ignition, add in 1 scoop of that.
- Women as a Pre-Workout: One half scoop of Phormula-1 should be mixed with 4 ounces of water. If you’re also using Ignition, add in 1/4 scoop of that supplement.
- Women as a Post-Workout: One scoop of Phormula-1 should be mixed with 6 ounces of water. If you’re also using Ignition, add in 1/2 scoop of that.
Why Take Ignition With Phormula-1?
Phormula-1 and Ignition is a great combination for post workout recovery!
Ignition from 1st Phorm is a glycogen replenishment supplement that spikes your insulin for optimal nutrient assimilation. If you’re only using protein, that protein will be digested slowly within the body. A lot of it will be converted into glucose and pushed into your cells as glycogen. This often results in less protein after your workout to help speed up recovery and build muscle. 1st Phorm claims that if you’re spending money on an expensive protein powder, using a supplement like Ignition is imperative to make the most of your investment.
Other, Similar Whey Protein Isolates to Consider
Let’s take a look at some of the other whey protein isolate supplements that are available if Phormula-1 isn’t quite what you’re looking for.
Vs. Legion Whey+
Legion Whey+ is a whey isolate protein powder supplement that is made using cow’s milk that is sourced from small dairy farms in Ireland. Legion Athletics finds it very important to use high-quality ingredients for their products, and the cows that produce their whey are hormone- and antibiotic-free. A lot of the fat and lactose that are present in milk are removed during the manufacturing process, which leaves behind a very clean product.
You can utilize Whey+ to increase your protein intake as well as your consumption of essential amino acids. The Legion brand claims this is an important product to help you with your weight loss goals and to help build lean muscle mass when working out.
It seems to be a well-tolerated product, but some people who are sensitive to dairy and lactose may find it a little hard on the stomach. You may adjust to it, though, since a large majority of the lactose has been removed from the final product.
There are 22 grams of protein in each serving of Legion Whey+ Protein. It comes in 15 flavors, each featuring minimal calories, fat and carbohydrates. It’s a very pure supplement that doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial ingredients.
Vs. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
This is another great protein supplement option if you’re interested in increasing your protein consumption with something very pure and healthy. Made from 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate, Transparent Labs Protein claims to assist with nitric oxide production, hydrate your muscle cells and enhance blood flow to your muscles and throughout the body.
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients or fillers. It contains stevia as the sweetener, which some people like and some don’t. There are 11 different flavors to choose from, one of which is unflavored. There are an impressive 28 grams of protein in each serving.
Check out my video below where I go in more detail about the similarities and differences between Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate and Phormula-1. I also give you my honest thoughts when I mix them up!
Vs. Dymatize ISO100 Whey Protein Isolate Powder
Dymatize ISO100 Whey Protein Isolate Powder is made using a scientifically formulated design with fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate. Each serving provides 25 grams of protein, which includes 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids and 2.6 grams of leucine. It’s a very clean formula, with just one gram of fat and one gram of sugar in each serving. If you’re concerned with the dairy or lactose content of your protein supplement, there is less than 1 gram of lactose in each serving.
Unfortunately, Dymatize ISO100 Whey Protein Isolate Powder is another supplement that contains sucralose in its ingredient list. Some reviews mention a mild artificial sweetener aftertaste after consumption. It’s a relatively affordable product, but there are only 20 servings per container.
Conclusion
Phormula-1 from 1st Phorm has a lot of beneficial features that make it a front runner for one of the best protein options on the market. Not only do reviews claim that it tastes good, but it also has the advantage of blending easily. Also, its whey isolate protein formula makes it well tolerated by even those who are sensitive to dairy and/or lactose.
1st Phorm puts a great deal of research and development into their products. Not only is Phormula-1 a great way to boost your protein intake and enhance your workout and recovery, but there are plenty of other products that you can consider pairing it with.
