10 Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss To Buy This Year
The Best Whey Protein Powders of 2022, Chosen By a Dietitian
Whey protein is the most popular protein supplement on the market—and for good reason. It's a complete protein which means it provides all the essential amino acids (EAAs) you need—as well as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)—making it the perfect supplement for muscle growth and development. The best whey protein powders easily mix in with most beverages and provide a yummy flavor. But with so many options available, how do you know which is the best whey protein powder?
Our team has worked diligently to answer this question for you. We've researched the most talked about whey protein powders and compiled a list of the 10 best. Plus, we categorized our selections by different needs so you can find the one that's right for you.
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE's readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming dietary supplements, the editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party. We've consulted with a team of nutritionists and dieticians to ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. This helps us create the most accurate, authentic review content for our readers.
The Best Whey Protein - Our Top Picks
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Best Overall Whey Protein - Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
SPECS
Calories: 120
120 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 4g
4g Protein: 25g
Hands down, the best overall whey protein powder is Kaged Whey Protein Isolate. Through a process known as ultrafiltration, the whey protein is separated from tag along nutrients like lactose, fat, and cholesterol, and isolated. This forms a more rapidly absorbed and digestible protein. From there, Kaged added ProHydrolase®, a digestive enzyme created to aid in protein digestion. This enzyme helps break down protein and release amino acids into the blood in order for them to do their work of muscle building and repair. Studies have demonstrated ProHydrolase's ability to increase the amount of time amino acids circulate in the blood which is exactly what you want for muscle gain.
We also like that Kaged is committed to quality. This protein has no artificial flavors or dyes, and is non GMO and gluten free. Plus, it's third party tested to prove quality and purity.
What We Like
ProHydrolase® digestive enzyme
No artificial flavors or dyes
Gluten-free
Third party tested
What We Don't Like
Sucralose used used as the sweetener while more natural options are available
No organic ingredients
BUY: Kaged Whey Protein Isolate
Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder - Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
SPECS
Calories: 120
120 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 2g
2g Protein: 28g
We chose the Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate because not only is it made with grass-fed whey from American grown cows, it has more protein per gram of powder than most other protein powders on the market. With each scoop of powder, you get a whopping 28g of protein. Why does this matter? Whey protein in the isolate form is now the gold standard in protein powders because it has been separated from the fat, cholesterol, and lactose that normally accompanies it.
We also like that this option is third-party tested for composition and purity, proving that what they claim on the label is actually in the bottle. Lastly, there are no artificial flavorings, dyes, gluten, or sweeteners, leaving a clean, easily absorbed protein supplement for improved muscle synthesis and recovery.
What We Like
Grass-fed whey protein isolate
Third-party testing
Lack of artificial flavors, dyes, and sweeteners
What We Don't Like
Higher end of the price spectrum
No organic ingredients
BUY: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss - Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
SPECS
Calories: 110
110 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 1g
1g Protein: 25g
At only 110 calories per serving, the Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is ideal for those looking to lose weight. It doesn't make a dent in your overall daily calorie allowance, plus it has whey protein isolate as its primary form of protein. This means the protein is more easily absorbed for better results and consumption. And, this option comes sweetened with sucralose and stevia making it free from gluten, fillers, and dyes.
What We Like
Grass-fed whey protein isolate
Manufactured in the USA
Lacks gluten, dyes, and fillers
Easy return policy
What We Don't Like
Not third-party tested
Some say the flavor is a bit too sweet
BUY: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Best Whey Protein Powder for Women - Cira Bright Whey Protein
SPECS
Calories: 120
120 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 2g
2g Protein: 25g
For women looking for the best whey protein powder, we recommend Cira Bright. This protein powder contains both whey protein isolate (whey protein in its purest form) and whey protein concentrate, which has been less processed. With all the talk about benefits of whey protein isolate, it doesn't hurt to mention that because whey protein concentrate has been processed less, it still has a significant amount of immunoglobulins from milk. Immunoglobulins are a set of proteins that act as antibodies to aid in immune function.
Bright Whey is sweetened with both sucralose and Stevia extract, and will not spike blood sugars. And the addition of Himalayan sea salt provides electrolytes for post workout replenishment.
What We Like
Combination whey protein isolate and concentrate
Gluten-free
Generous return policy
What We Don't Like
Grass-fed whey not used
No third-party testing
BUY: Cira Bright Whey Protein
Best Tasting Whey Protein Powder - Ghost Whey Protein Powder
SPECS
Calories: 160
160 Sugar: 4g
4g Carbs: 7g
7g Protein: 25g
Looking for the best tasting whey protein? Ghost Whey Protein Powder offers a variety of flavor options, most of which are reminiscent of sweet treats like cookies and cream or chocolate ice cream. Ghost has partnered with brands like Oreo, Chips Ahoy, and Nutter Butter to bring these delicious flavors to the market in protein powder form.
Ghost Whey Protein has also added digestive enzymes to decrease chances of bloating and stomach upset. However, if you're looking for a protein powder that's free of artificial flavoring and coloring, this isn't the one, but sometimes taste is worth the trade off.
What We Like
Unique protein blend
Digestive enzymes
Exclusive flavors
Third party tested
What We Don't Like
Artificial flavors and coloring
No organic or grass fed ingredients
BUY: Ghost Whey Protein Powder
Best Organic Whey Protein Powder: Garden Of Life Organic Whey Protein
SPECS
Calories: 130
130 Sugar: 2g
2g Carbs: 7g
7g Protein: 21g
Garden of Life's Organic Whey Protein Powder was an easy choice as our pick for the best organic whey protein powder. It's made with whey protein concentrate and comes from humane-certified, grass-fed cows. The protein is also cold processed which helps to maintain amino acid quality. Sweetened with organic Stevia extract, this protein powerhouse also has two billion CFU of probiotics to support gut health.
Garden of Life takes their social and eco-consciousness to the next level with each product. They are a completely carbon-neutral company which means they rely solely on sustainable practices. Plus, all products are third-party tested so you can rest assured that you are getting safe, high-quality products with each purchase.
What We Like
Grass-fed protein
Contains probiotics
Organic, non-GMO verified, humane-certified
Carbon neutral
Have to take 2 scoops to get 21g of protein
What We Don't Like
Taste may vary depending on flavor
Some report clumping when mixing
BUY: Garden Of Life Organic Whey Protein
Best Whey Protein Powder for Men - Dymatize® ISO100® Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
SPECS
Calories: 110
110 Sugar: Less than 1g
Less than 1g Carbs: 1g
1g Protein: 25g
For men looking to maximize their gains, we recommend the Dymatize® ISO 100® Hydrolyzed Whey Protein. Hydrolyzed whey protein isolate is the active ingredient in this powder which makes it more unique compared to the others. Through the hydrolyzation process, protein isolate molecules are broken down into even smaller pieces. This is similar to pre-digesting the protein molecule to make actual digestion faster and easier.
Dymatize as a company is a well-known and trusted brand for over 25 years. Plus, we like that they employ third-party testing to ensure composition and purity.
What We Like
Third-party tested
Many flavors to choose from
High-quality protein
What We Don't Like
Use of sucralose while more natural sweetener options are available
BUY: Dymatize® ISO100® Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Gain - Jacked Factory Authentic Whey
SPECS
Calories: 120
120 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 1g
1g Protein: 24g
If you're looking to max out your gains, Jacked Factory made our list once again with their Authentic Whey. This protein powder combines both whey protein isolate and concentrate for a well-rounded protein source. It is also a complete protein, including all EAAs and BCAAs.
Although this is a great source of protein, it's important to remember that for weight and muscle gain, you must consume more calories than you burn. At 120 calories per serving, this powder can also be added to smoothies and baked goods to help boost calorie intake.
What We Like
No artificial dyes
Well-rounded protein source
Manufactured in the USA
Money back guarantee
What We Don't Like
Not third-party tested
Sucralose used as a sweetener
BUY: Jacked Factory Authentic Whey
Best Sugar-Free Whey Protein Powder - Isopure Unflavored
SPECS
Calories: 100
100 Sugar: 0g
0g Carbs: 0g
0g Protein: 25g
The spot for the best sugar-free whey protein goes to Isopure Unflavored. This protein offers so much with so little. That is, with just two ingredients, this protein powder packs a protein punch while steering clear of all other unnecessary ingredients. We like that Isopure Unflavored allows you to take the reins and be creative in how you flavor it. You can also add it to hot foods like soups, stews, and baked goods.
Isopure has been around since 1998 and has consistently offered quality protein supplements since. Products are tested by a third party to ensure not only safety but that what you read on the label is actually what's in the bottle.
What We Like
Simple, unflavored protein
Third-party tested
Free of sugar, carbs, fillers, lactose
What We Don't Like
Whey is not from grass-fed cows
No organic ingredients
BUY: Isopure Unflavored
Best Whey Protein Powder for Mixing - Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey
SPECS
Calories: 120
120 Sugar: 1g
1g Carbs: 3g
3g Protein: 24g
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey protein powder slides into our final spot as the best protein powder for mixing. This protein blend consists of highly absorbable whey protein isolate, as well as whey protein concentrate. The protein powder mixes in with any beverage quickly and easily regardless of the flavor option.
Gold Standard Whey protein powder is consistently given the highest reviews for a reason. And although the protein is not third-party tested, it is in-house tested for quality and safety.
What We Like
Protein blend
18 flavors
Easy mixability
What We Don't Like
Not third-party tested
Sweetened with sucralose while there are more natural sweeteners available
BUY: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey
How to Choose the Best Whey Protein
As mentioned earlier, due to whey's popularity, there are an abundance of options available to choose from. Let's discuss what to look for when attempting to purchase your next whey protein supplement.
Macros
Be sure to take a closer look at the macros to be sure you're getting what you want out of your protein.
Protein. Most whey supplements average around 24-25 grams of protein per serving. Look for a high-quality, grass-fed whey whenever possible. Whey in the form of whey protein isolate (when compared to whey protein concentrate) is more easily absorbed by the body, and some feel it is more easily digested. Whey protein concentrate is also less processed and less expensive, but retains the natural immunoglobulins that come from milk.
Most whey supplements average around 24-25 grams of protein per serving. Look for a high-quality, grass-fed whey whenever possible. Whey in the form of whey protein isolate (when compared to whey protein concentrate) is more easily absorbed by the body, and some feel it is more easily digested. Whey protein concentrate is also less processed and less expensive, but retains the natural immunoglobulins that come from milk. Carbs. Whey protein supplements are just that, protein. Manufacturers usually try to keep total carbohydrates as low as possible to avoid blood sugar spikes. If you'd like a more balanced meal, consider adding carbohydrate rich food along with the protein powder. One example is to blend the whey protein with fruit like a banana or apple.
Whey protein supplements are just that, protein. Manufacturers usually try to keep total carbohydrates as low as possible to avoid blood sugar spikes. If you'd like a more balanced meal, consider adding carbohydrate rich food along with the protein powder. One example is to blend the whey protein with fruit like a banana or apple. Fat. Fat slows digestion and can lead to fullness and sluggishness which is the last thing you want if you are drinking your protein powder before a workout. Therefore, fat is also kept low in most cases.
Ingredients
Aside from the macros, the supporting ingredients are also very important. A solid whey protein can be muddied by low-quality supporting ingredients. Look for whey protein powders free from artificial colors and flavors. Natural sweeteners like Stevia leaf or Monk fruit extract are great options when used as sugar substitutes.
Third-Party Testing
Because protein supplements are not monitored by the FDA, companies can get away with skimping on certain ingredients or not following through with their claims. To avoid this, as well as prove their quality to the consumer, many companies have their products third-party tested. That is, an outside lab steps in and tests the products for composition and purity. We recommend choosing a whey protein powder that has been third-party tested whenever possible.
FAQs About Whey Protein Powder
Can you use whey protein daily?
Absolutely. The idea behind taking a whey protein supplement is to meet daily protein requirements for muscle growth and synthesis. If you feel that you need more protein than your diet is currently providing, a whey protein powder can be perfect to fill in the nutritional gap.
Who should use whey protein?
Whey can be used by anyone that is not meeting their protein needs through diet alone. Whey certainly doesn't discriminate, as both men and women can stand to benefit from protein powder if they aren't meeting their needs through their diet. Whey protein is also a good choice for those who engage in strength or resistance training since it can assist with building muscle. However, it's always important to consult with your doctor to be sure you don't have a condition that requires a lower protein diet.
When is the best time to take whey protein?
There are benefits to taking a whey protein supplement at various times. There are benefits to taking it before and after your workout, or even before bed. However, what is most important is the total amount you consume over the course of the day. Therefore, take whey protein when it is most convenient for you, but more importantly, take enough to meet your daily needs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
5 Best Protein Powders For Building Muscle That Actually Work
Over the past few years, I’ve tried about 20 of the so-called best protein powders for building muscle, and to be honest, most of them suck.
They taste horrible, make you gassy, are loaded with chemicals, and don’t do anything.
But a few do work, and I feel happy to recommend them.
Here are my top 5 picks:
They taste great and, most importantly, will help you pack on muscle.
So let’s start with my number 1 recommendation.
1: Tri-Protein
Tri-Protein is a chocolate-flavored protein shake made by CrazyNutrition and is my number 1 recommendation if you’re looking for a protein powder to help you build muscle.
Unlike other powders that are underdosed, taste horrible, and only contain one kind of protein, Tri-Protein contains a blend of six different types of protein that are “released” in three separate phases.
By releasing in 3 phases, Tri-Protein fuels your muscles for longer, helping them repair and grow faster.
So you get the quick hit of protein your muscles need after a challenging workout and a nice sustained delivery from the slower digesting proteins.
Before I bought Tri-Protein, I looked into the ingredients to see if there’s any science to their claims that it will help you gain muscle fast.
Here’s what I found:
According to the label, each serving of Tri-Protein contains:
21g of protein
06g of carbs
09g of sugar
84g of fat
Those are some impressive macros.
Even though there are powders that contain more protein per serving, Tri-Protein makes up for it with its 3-phase release for better results.
And it’s not loaded with cheap fillers like other protein powders.
The six types of protein in Tri-Protein are:
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey Protein Concentrate
Micellar Casein
Milk Protein Concentrate
Calcium Caseinate
Whey Protein Hydrolysate
And these proteins have all been shown to boost protein synthesis and increase muscle mass.
For example, this study found that whey protein isolate can increase upper-body strength by 5.15% in just eight weeks.
And this study found that whey protein concentrate can boost upper-body strength by 6.7% over the same period.
It also contains cocoa powder for flavor, sucralose as a sweetener, and a digestive enzyme to improve digestion.
Clear evidence shows the benefits of combining fast and slow digesting proteins.
For example, this study found that taking whey protein (which is quickly digested) and casein (which is slowly digested) has a “major effect on whole-body protein anabolism, leading to faster recovery times and muscle growth.”
Combining proteins post-workout will fuel your muscles with the steady supply of proteins they need to repair and grow.
Why Tri-Protein is the Best Protein Powder for Building Muscle
I first heard about Tri-Protein from a friend telling me it’s the best protein powder he’s ever tried.
And after learning about the 3-stage release system, I was excited to try it. So I ordered some, and it arrived in less than 48 hours.
I’m naturally skinny, so I couldn’t wait to see if Tri-Protein worked and started taking it as a post-workout shake.
Taste
The first time I took it was after a back workout. That meant lots of pull-ups, deadlifts, and rows.
I thought it tasted pretty good for a protein powder. Very chocolatey and smooth.
You could easily make it tastier by adding milk and maybe some crushed ice instead of water.
Recovery
After a heavy back workout, I’m usually very sore the next day, but after drinking Tri-Protein, I felt like I hadn’t worked out at all.
By the next morning I was almost fully recovered and ready for another workout.
I’ve noticed this a lot since using Tri-Protein. No matter how hard I work out, I feel great the next day, even after leg day.
Gains?
Since using Tri-Protein for about a month, I have gained just over 11lbs (5kg) and look more muscular and ripped.
My girlfriend even asked if I’m using steroids because I’m so jacked.
After using Tri-Protein for a month, I love it.
It’s the best protein powder I’ve tried, and I would recommend it to anyone who lifts weights and wants to make gains.
Plus, it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if you don’t like it, you can get a full refund.
Click here to visit the official Tri-Protein website to read more reviews and see what it can do for you!
2: Gold Standard Whey
Second place on my list of the best protein powders for building muscle goes to Gold Standard Whey.
Gold Standard Whey by Optimum Nutrition is one of the most popular protein powders on the market and has more than 69,000 ratings on Amazon.
As its name suggests, this protein powder aims to be the “gold standard” whey protein powder supplement.
Here’s why I rate it the second-best protein powder for building muscle.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Ingredients
Gold Standard has one of the best macronutrient profiles of any protein powder I’ve tried. Each serving provides:
24 grams of whey protein (a blend of isolate, concentrate, and peptides)
5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
3-4 grams of carbs
1-3 grams of sugar
1-1.5 grams of fat
The main benefits of Gold Standard Whey are that it contains three kinds of whey, is gluten-free, and has an enzyme to improve digestion.
Taste and mixability
Gold Standard Whey mixes easily with water or milk and doesn’t clump up. It comes in several great flavors, including:
Chocolate
Banana
Strawberry
Chocolate Peanut Butter
Cookies & Cream
Extreme Milk Chocolate
Mocha Cappuccino
Strawberry & Crème
Vanilla Ice Cream
When I tested Gold Standard whey, I bought the strawberry flavor and loved it. It tastes best when mixed with milk but also tastes nice when mixed with water.
And I found it great for recovery and muscle gains too.
Others seem to like it too.
Gold Standard Whey has a 4.7 out of 5 rating on based on 69,280 global ratings.
Gold Standard Whey is delicious, comes from a well-known brand, has thousands of positive reviews, and is great for building muscle and recovery.
You can read more about Gold Standard Whey and check out more reviews on Amazon here.
3: Ghost Whey
Third place on my list of the best protein powders for building muscle goes to Ghost Whey.
Ghost is one of the best-tasting whey protein powders on this list.
I bought the chocolate chip cookie dough flavor and loved it.
It might not be best if you’re on a diet because it contains slightly more fat and carbs than other protein powders. But if you’re on a bulk that shouldn’t matter too much.
Ghost Whey Ingredients
Ghost is made in the USA in a facility that meets cGMP (current Good Manufacturing Practices) certification.
This means that the ingredients and final product are tested by an independent organization, NSF International, to ensure they are safe.
Depending on which flavor your choose, each 39-gram scoop of Ghost contains:
120-160 calories (depending on flavor)
25 grams of protein from whey isolate and whey concentrate
3 grams of fat
7 grams of carbs
Ghost is very transparent about the type of protein in its products. About 14 grams is whey protein isolate, and 13 grams is whey protein concentrate, while the rest is hydrolyzed whey for fast digestion.
Ghost doesn’t have any added soy (so you don’t have to worry about insulin spikes), but it does contain salt, cellulose, thickening xanthan gums, and sucralose.
Mixability and Taste
Ghost mixes instantly with water and tastes fantastic.
It comes in a variety of exciting flavors, including:
Chocolate chip cookie dough
Cereal milk
Chocolate milk
Peanut butter cereal milk
Nutter Butter
Chips Ahoy
Oreo
Coconut Ice Cream
When I tested Ghost, I bought the Cookie Dough flavor and was pleasantly surprised. It tastes fantastic combined with milk and contains bits of cookie dough and chocolate chips.
The extra carbs also gave me a bit more energy too.
Ghost is rated “Excellent” on TrustPilot and has a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5.
If you’re trying to bulk up and build some muscle, then Ghost Whey is worth a try.
It tastes great, contains a good amount of protein, and the extra fat and carbs are beneficial if you’re on a bulk.
Click here to learn more about Ghost Whey and read more customer reviews.
4: NOW Sports Egg White Protein
If you’re all about whey protein, then you’ll do fine with my top three picks; Tri-Protein, Gold Standard, or Ghost.
But if you’re open to other options, I highly recommend egg white protein.
Egg white protein is just as good as whey in terms of absorption and amino acid profile yet has fewer calories, less fat, and fewer carbs.
Best of all, egg white protein powder is dairy-free, so it doesn’t produce side effects like gas and bloating.
That’s why fourth place on my list of the best protein powders for muscle gain goes to NOW Sports Egg White Protein.
Here’s why I rate this protein powder so highly.
Ingredients
NOW Sports Egg White Protein powder has fewer calories and fat than other whey protein powders.
Each 28-gram scoop provides:
110 calories
20 grams of protein
5 grams of fat
4 grams of carbs
NOW Sports Egg White Protein powder is ideal if you want to avoid dairy or limit your daily intake.
Mixability and Taste
NOW Sports Egg White Protein powder comes in three primary flavors; chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored.
The downsides are that it doesn’t mix as well as the other powders on this list and doesn’t taste too great.
If you’re looking for a no-prep protein powder that you can throw in a shaker and mix up with some water, then NOW Sports isn’t for you.
However, this powder is awesome for mixing into things. If you’re following a bulking diet and want to make a dairy-free chocolate-peanut butter shake, then NOW Sports is great.
My favorite thing to do with the chocolate version is to mix it with a scoop of peanut butter and have a high-protein, low-carb snack to keep my energy levels up during intense workouts.
This protein powder has excellent reviews on Amazon, with a 4.4 out of 5-star rating based on 533 reviews.
NOW Sports Egg White protein might not be the best tasting or the most effective, but it is a good choice if you’re trying to go dairy free.
Click here to get yours.
5: PlantFusion Complete Plant-Based Protein Powder
Fifth place on my list of the best protein powders for building muscle goes to PlantFusion Complete Plant-Based Protein Powder.
PlantFusion combines five different plant proteins, and each serving provides:
120 calories
21 grams of protein
2 grams of carbs
4 grams of BCAAs
100 mg enzyme blend
The BCAAs in PlantFusion are great for recovery, while the enzyme blend helps digestion.
PlantFusion is a “clean” protein powder and doesn’t contain dairy, gluten, soy, or any artificial chemicals or fillers like rice dextrin.
Mixability and Taste
PlantFusion mixes instantly with water and can also be used in smoothies and baking.
Unlike some cheaper protein powders, it doesn’t contain rice protein, so it doesn’t have a chalky aftertaste.
For a healthy protein powder, I think it tastes pretty good.
When I used PlantFusion, I noticed a boost in recovery and felt like my muscles were fuller.
PlantFusion is rated 4.3 out of 5 on based on over 8,000 reviews, so others seem to like it too.
This one is a bit expensive, but if you’re looking for a good plant-based protein powder to help gain some muscle, this is definitely worth a try.
Click here to learn more about the PlantFusion protein powder.
Best Protein Powders for Building Muscle: Recap
With hundreds of protein powders for sale, it can make choosing the right one a bit difficult, but hopefully this post helped.
To sum up, here’s my top 5 picks again:
Tri-Protein: 3-phase release, a mix of fast and slow digesting proteins for maximum muscle gains. Great for recovery too. My number 1 choice. Gold Standard Whey: Good overall whey protein powder. Ghost Whey Protein: Best tasting. NOW Sports Egg White Protein: Best non-dairy protein powder. PlantFusion Complete Plant-Based Protein Powder: Best organic, vegan protein powder.
If I could recommend just one protein powder for building muscle, it would be Tri-Protein by CrazyNutrition.
Something about the mix of fast and slow digesting proteins really does boost protein synthesis and help you build muscle faster.
Click here to visit the official Tri-Protein website and learn more about how it can help you gain muscle!
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10 Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss To Buy This Year
Protein is one of the most important macronutrients for weight loss. Getting enough protein keeps you fuller for longer, reduces your appetite, and supports a healthy metabolism. Protein may also help you to retain lean muscle mass while losing body fat.
One of the most convenient ways to boost your protein intake is with protein shakes. While there are tons of premade protein shakes on the market, protein powder is much more versatile. You can mix powder with water, milk, or plant-based milk. Or you can make it even more nutritious by adding ice, fruit, and greens and blending it.
No matter if you want to lose 10lbs, 50lbs, or more, protein powder is definitely one of the best products to have in your arsenal. Keep reading to learn about the 10 best protein powders that will help you shed the pounds and keep them off for good.
Protein per serving: 30g
Flavors: Chocolate, vanilla, and cookies and cream
Type: Vegan and standard formula
Price: $74.99 for 30 servings
Elm & Rye Protein Supplement is as good as it gets. In fact, this proprietary protein blend was awarded the healthiest and tastiest protein supplement by Discover Magazine. This protein blend is made from pasture-raised, free-range, and grass-fed cows.
Elm & Rye Protein Supplement is formulated with a customized mushroom complex for brain function and recovery, along with BCAAs for strength optimization and muscle preservation. Each serving also offers collagen for bone health, turmeric to reduce inflammation, and ashwagandha for increased mental focus and strength.
Elm & Rye Protein Supplement is designed to be a full-body restorative formula. Each serving offers 30g of protein, which will keep you full in between meals and help in your weight-loss journey.
2. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey
Protein per serving: 24g
Flavors: Extreme Milk Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, Mocha Cappuccino, Strawberry & Creme, and Vanilla Ice Cream
Type: Whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides
Price: $33.24 for 28 servings
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is formulated with whey protein isolates, which are the purest form of whey available today. Each serving packs 24g of protein to keep you full while supporting your muscle building needs. It also offers 4g of glutamine and glutamic acid along with 5.5g of naturally occurring BCAAs.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey is known for exceptional potency, purity, and composition. When used as a daily supplement, this protein powder can help you lose weight while unlocking your body’s full potential.
What’s great about this protein is that it’s formulated to provide maximum mixability. This means no more clumps whether you mix with a blender bottle or a spoon.
3. BSN Syntha 6
Protein per serving: 22g
Flavors: Banana, Chocolate Milkshake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Peanut Butter, and Strawberry Milkshake
Type: Blend of whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, calcium caseinate, micellar casein, milk protein isolate, and egg albumin
Price: $32.28 for 28 servings
BSN Syntha 6 tastes great and packs a powerful punch of protein. Each serving offers 22g of protein along with 10g of naturally occurring essential amino acids. Whether you mix it with water or milk, this protein powder will keep you full while helping you power through your workouts and supporting a healthy recovery.
This powder mixes well and can be used day or night. Take it post workout, as a snack between meals, or as a bedtime treat. At 200 calories per serving, this protein powder can easily fit within your daily calorie allotment.
4. Isopure Zero/Low Carb
Protein per serving: 25g
Flavors: Alpine Punch, Apple Pie, Banana Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Creamy Vanilla, Dutch Chocolate, Mango Peach, Pineapple Orange Banana, Strawberries & Cream, Toasted Coconut, and Vanilla Salted Caramel
Type: Zero/low carb pure whey protein isolate
Price: $52.99 for 42 servings
Give your body the high-quality protein it needs without the carbs with Isopure Zero/Low Carb. If you’re following the keto diet or simply want to lower your carb intake, this is a great protein to consider. This powder is available in delicious flavors, all of which are available in low or no-carb formulas.
Each serving offers 25g of protein from whey protein isolate, along with added vitamins and minerals to help you perform at your best. Isopure Zero/Low Carb protein powder is made without lactose, gluten, or any fillers.
5. Dymatize ISO100
Protein per serving: 25g protein
Flavors: Gourmet Chocolate, Dunkin’ Cappuccino, Dunkin’ Mocha Latte, Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Pebbles, Pebbles Birthday Cake, Gourmet Vanilla, Cookies & Cream, and Chocolate Peanut Butter
Type: Whey protein isolate
Price: $32.99 for 20 servings
Lose weight, go harder at the gym, and give your muscles the recovery support they need with Dymatize ISO100. This ultra-fast absorbing and fast-digesting protein powder is available in great flavors, all of which pack 25g of protein per serving.
At 120 calories or less per serving, Dymatize ISO100 can easily fit into your daily calories. Each serving contains less than 1g of sugar, 5.5g of BCAAs, and 2.6g of leucine. With optimal mixability and maximum purity, this is a quality protein to add to your daily regimen.
6. Naked Nutrition Naked Whey
Protein per serving: 25g
Flavors: Chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry
Type: Grass-fed whey protein
Price: $94.99 for 60 servings
Sourced from small California dairy farms, Naked Whey comes from grass-fed cows that are raised without growth hormones. Each serving of this product offers 25g of protein along with 5.9g of BCAAs. Available in three delicious flavors, Naked Whey is great for breakfast, as a snack, or at night.
If you’re into clean foods, Naked Whey is a worthy option. This protein powder doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners or additives. It’s also soy-free, gluten-free, and GMO-free.
7. Quest Nutrition
Protein per serving: 20g-24g
Flavors: Salted Caramel, Chocolate Milkshake, Vanilla Milkshake, Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Crunch, and Cookies & Cream
Type: Whey protein isolate and micellar casein
Price: $33.59 for 22 servings
Because Quest Nutrition protein powder is low-calorie while offering 20g of protein per serving, it’s a great option for anyone who is looking to lose weight. This powder is certified gluten-free, low-carb, low-sugar, and is available in a wide range of delicious flavors.
Quest Nutrition protein powder is made with a blend of fast-absorbing whey protein and slow-acting micellar casein. This unique blend gives your body the amino acids it needs while providing post-workout support.
8. Premier Protein
Protein per serving: 30g
Flavors: Chocolate Milkshake, Vanilla Milkshake, and Cafe Latte
Type: Whey protein
Price: $24.99 for 17 servings
At 30g of protein and 150 calories per serving, Premier Protein powder is formulated to help you reach your weightloss goals. This powder is rich, smooth, and extremely flavorful. It’s made with 100% whey protein, which your body absorbs and digests quickly so that you can feed your muscles the nutrients they need.
Premier Protein powder tastes like a delectable treat! Each serving has just 1g of sugar and contains no soy or gluten. This protein power is the gult-free yum that you’ve been looking for.
9. Pure Protein 100% Whey
Protein per serving: 25g
Flavors: Vanilla Cream and Rich Chocolate
Type: Whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate
Price: $40.99 for 20 servings
Lose weight and keep your body fit with Pure Protein 100% Whey. This protein powder is fast-acting and provides all of the essential amino acids that your body needs for vitality, energy, and strength. It can be used as a pre- or post-workout supplement, in between meals, or as a meal replacement.
Pure Protein 100% Whey is low fat, gluten-free, and doesn’t contain any soy. At 25g of protein per scoop, this powder will help you reach your weightloss goals in no time!
10. PlantFusion Complete Protein
Protein per serving: 21g
Flavors: Creamy Vanilla Bean, Rich Chocolate, Red Velvet Cake, Natural, and Cookies & Cream
Type: Pea protein isolate and whole algae protein
Price: $26.99 for 15 servings
If you’re in the market for a vegan, plant-based protein powder, look no further than PlantFusion Complete Protein. Formulated to build and repair muscle while sustaining energy, this protein powder tastes great and is easy to digest. It also mixes well with plant-based milk, fruit, and leaves no chalky aftertaste!
PlantFusion Complete Protein is naturally delicious and is made with a blend of natural sweeteners and flavors. It doesn’t contain any gluten or GMOs, and is also free of soy, dairy, eggs, rice, fish, nuts, tree nuts, and shellfish.
Final thoughts
The right protein powder makes it much easier to achieve your weightloss goals. By feeding your muscles the nutrients they need, you can shed unwanted body fat while maintaining your lean muscle mass so that you can shed pounds while getting stronger.
