According to the experts, protein is an essential macronutrient because it provides you with what your body needs to survive and thrive. Protein is made of amino acids, which are the result of combining sulfur, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon.
Protein is found in every living thing in the world, which means that humans have it. It is a complex substance that plays a major role in creating and maintaining your cells. In addition, it is involved in an array of bodily functions, including the following:
- Creation of enzymes
- Carrying oxygen & nutrients through the body
- Muscle building
- Tissue repair
- Hormone production
- Digestion
Therefore, as you can see, protein is critical for your health and well-being. Ideally, your protein needs should be met by your diet. However, this isn’t possible for most people these days, so many are turning to protein powders to boost their protein levels. This helps them manage their weight, improves their muscle mass, increases strength, and enhances stamina.
Whether you are the average Joe looking to improve your overall health and wellness or you are a serious athlete looking to enhance your performance, we can help. Before you add a protein powder to your routine, there’s so much you need to know. Plus, there are so many options, it’s hard to choose the best one.
You will find that many of the manufacturers make big promises. Unfortunately, most of them don’t live up to those promises. In this article, we’ll give you some important information about protein powders, including the various types you will encounter, as well as the benefits associated with protein powders in general.
If you want to start using a protein powder, consider one of these. You can be sure these are safe, and the companies are trustworthy. Feel free to experiment until you find one that works for you. You don’t have to be stuck with the first one you try if it doesn’t work or you don’t like it.
7 Best Protein Powder Reviewed
Later on, we’re going to explore more about the different types of protein powder as well as the benefits associated with protein powder supplementation. First, we’re going to review what we feel are the 7 best protein powders on the market right now. Most of these are whey protein, but there are a few plant-based options. Start with one of these if you are seriously considering adding a protein powder to your routine. After all, the research has already been done for you- so you can be sure they are safe and effective.
XWERKS Grow
XWERKS Grow is made from grass-fed dairy cows raised in New Zealand. It is a whey isolate and is 100% pure because it’s been through an advanced filtration process. This means the fats, carbs, and lactose have all been removed.
This is considered a high-quality protein and is easy for your body to digest. You don’t have to worry about gas or bloating with XWERKS Grow. Plus, it’s soy-free and gluten-free.
Each serving of XWERKS Grow offers the following:
- 25 grams of protein
- 6 grams of BCAAs
- 0 carbs
- 0 fat
It comes in four traditional flavors:
- Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Strawberry
- Peanut butter
Many of the protein powders on the market have a chalky texture or strange aftertaste, but this is not the case with XWERKS Grow.
| Product Name | XWERKS Grow |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Whey Isolate |
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| Cost | $59.00 |
Transparent Labs 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein is made from milk sourced from dairy cows in the United States. This protein powder has one of the highest protein contents out of all of the products on the market: 88%. The scoop size is 32 grams and each one contains 28 grams of protein.
The cows that this whey protein are sourced from are never given hormones or anything else like that. They are fed natural, grass diets. Also, Transparent Labs doesn’t add any flavors, sweeteners, or other additives to this protein powder.
Each scoop contains the following:
- 28 grams protein
- Up to 120 calories, depending on your flavor choice
- Under 1 gram sugar
- 1 gram carbs
The micronutrient profile of this protein powder is one of the best and it’s affordable. This is proof that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a quality protein powder.
| Product Name | Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Whey isolate |
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| Cost | $59.99 |
Ghost Lifestyle Whey
As we were exploring the various brands of protein powder on the market, we learned that many of them don’t think much about what they put or don’t put in their formulas but Ghost Lifestyle Whey is different. This product is simple. They only use whey (all 3 kinds) and a digestive enzyme. This whey protein is soy-free and gluten-free.
While many manufacturers offer fairly traditional flavors, Ghost Lifestyle goes out on a limb and offers some interesting ones:
- Milk Chocolate
- Coffee Ice Cream
- Fruity Cereal Milk
- Regular Cereal Milk
- Marshmallow Cereal Milk
- Peanut Butter Cereal Milk
- Cinnamon Cereal Milk
Ghost Lifestyle prides itself on being honest and transparent about its ingredients and dosages. They don’t use proprietary blends like some other brands, so you know exactly what you’re getting and how much. They have nothing to hide.
Each serving of Ghost Lifestyle Whey provides 25 grams of whey protein, across the three types:
- 12.5 grams of whey isolate
- 10 grams of whey concentrate
- 2.5 grams of whey hydrolysate
One thing you’ll find is that many of the manufacturers use whey protein that has been lecithinated with soy. Since soy is a proven allergen, Ghost Lifestyle uses sunflower instead. This whey protein is also gluten-free.
| Product Name | Ghost Lifestyle Whey |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Whey concentrate, hydrolysate, and isolate |
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| Cost | $44.99 |
Steel Supplements VEG-PRO
Steel Supplements VEG-PRO is a pure vegan protein powder that provides 20 grams of protein, as well as all 9 of the essential amino acids. It is non-GMO. It is produced at low temps and there are never any carriers or fillers added, so the amino acid profile is protected.
Plant-based protein powders are typically best for weight management because they are lower in fat and calories. They are high in fiber, which helps with digestion.
Steel Supplements VEG-PRO is non-GMO, gluten-free, and dairy-free (except Cookies & Cream). According to the manufacturer, this is a high-quality alternative to whey and other milk-based proteins.
| Product Name | Steel Supplements VEG-PRO |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Plant-based |
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| Cost | $35.00 |
CrazyNutrition 100% Tri-Protein
CrazyNutrition is one of the older manufacturers in the industry. They are well-known and loved. If you want to reduce the aches and pains you feel following an intense workout session or level up your muscle gains, this is definitely the best option for you.
CrazyNutrition 100% Tri-Protein contains 6 types of protein that is released in 3 phases so that your body absorbs it easier. Most of the other brands flood your body with protein all at one time, but this product offers a controlled release.
Each serving of this protein powder offers 21 grams of protein through the following:
- Micellar casein
- Milk protein concentrate
- Calcium caseinate
- Whey protein hydrolysate
- Whey protein isolate
- Whey protein concentrate
CrazyNutrition 100% Tri-Protein also contains DigeZyme, which is a digestive enzyme that increases absorption and reduces bloat. It comes in three flavors: chocolate, vanilla, and salted caramel.
| Product Name | CrazyNutrition 100% Tri-Protein |
|---|---|
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| Cost | $49.99 |
Ladder Whey Protein
Ladder was founded by Lebron James and Arnold Schwarzenegger when they discovered that they could not find a protein powder to meet their unique needs. The two of them decided to work together and create their own company. They do offer both whey and plant-based protein, but we’ve chosen their whey protein for our list.
This protein powder is formulated to increase muscle mass, improve endurance, and reduce recovery time. Each serving contains:
- 26 grams of protein
- 7 grams BCAAs
- 14 grams amino acids
- 2 billion CFUs of probiotics
You can find Ladder Whey Protein in two traditional flavors: vanilla and chocolate. This protein powder is one of the few that has been given the NSF Certified for Sport certification. This means that the formula has been thoroughly tested and proven to be free of banned substances.
| Product Name | Ladder Whey Protein |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Whey isolate |
| Flavors | |
| Nutrition Facts |
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| Cost | $59.95 |
Orgain Organic Plant Protein
Orgain is one of the well-known and respected manufacturers in the health and fitness industry. They offer both whey and plant-based protein powders. Both of these options are organic, contain superfoods, and can be used as a meal replacement.
Our focus is on their plant-based protein powder. It is made with clean ingredients and is USDA-certified organic. Each serving contains the following:
- 21 grams protein
- 6 grams prebiotics
- 0 sugars
It is available in a few flavors, both unique and traditional:
- Iced Coffee
- Vanilla Bean
- Chocolate Carmel Sea Salt
- Peanut Butter
- Chocolate Coconut
- Chocolate Peanut Butter
- Creamy Chocolate Fudge
Orgain also offers an unsweetened formula.
| Product Name | Orgain Organic Plant Protein |
|---|---|
| Type of Protein | Plant-sourced |
| Flavors |
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| Nutrition Facts |
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| Cost | $31.99 |
How We Chose 7 Best Protein Powder
As we mentioned, there are so many options on the market, it’s hard to choose the best protein powder. However, we have done the work and narrowed it down to what we feel are the 7 best options on the market today. There are several factors we used to choose these. These factors are:
- Value
- Quality
- Taste/texture
- Price
Types of Protein Powder
You’ve made the decision to start using a protein powder, so you start shopping. You quickly realize that there are so many options to choose from. Most of the ones we’ve chosen are whey protein. However, there are also a few plant-based options. There are other types of protein that you may want to keep in mind. Below, we’ll explore the most common types of protein powder.
When you begin your journey to find a protein powder to, you’ll probably be confused by all of the options. You may feel like it’s impossible to find the best one. The important thing to remember is there’s no such thing as “one size fits all” when it comes to supplementation. Everyone is different and has different needs and goals. You have to evaluate yours and determine which one meets those.
So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the most common types of protein powder you’ll encounter:
Whey
The most common type of protein is whey protein. Whey comes from milk and is a byproduct of the cheesemaking process. In cheesemaking, milk is separated into a solid and a liquid. The liquid is whey. This was once believed to be waste and thrown out- that is, until researchers discovered that it might be useful.
There are three types of whey protein:
- Isolate: 90%+ protein, zero fat, carbs, or lactose
- Concentrate: 30-89% protein, low in fat and carbs, does contain lactose
- Hydrolysate: ultra-filtered, so it’s easier for the body to process, often referred to as “predigested”
Since whey does come from milk, if you have a dairy allergy, you may want to choose one of the other protein options. If you are lactose intolerant, you should be able to tolerate whey isolate since the lactose has been removed.
Whey contains the 9 essential amino acids, so it is considered a complete protein. These amino acids must be obtained through dietary sources because your body does not naturally produce them.
Studies have proven that, when used along with a strength training program, whey protein can:
- Facilitate recovery
- Help gain/retain muscle mass
- Improve strength
Casein Protein
Casein also comes from dairy. When you consume casein, it turns into a gel in your stomach, which slows down digestion. Therefore, this type of protein keeps you feeling satiated for much longer than you would with other forms of protein.
Due to the slower digestion, the amino acids have more time to get into your muscles, which means muscle protein degradation is reduced. According to experts, compared to wheat or soy proteins, casein is better for improving muscle protein synthesis.
Soy Protein
Soy protein is a plant-based protein. It is high-quality, but the problem is that it contains phytoestrogens, which are known to reduce testosterone levels and increase estrogen when consumed in high amounts. Therefore, experts recommend that male bodybuilders avoid this type of protein.
Additionally, it’s important to note that this form of protein has less leucine than whey protein does. There are also lower amounts of the other essential amino acids as well.
Overall, soy protein is fine in moderate amounts. However, you should not consume it in high amounts.
While it’s true that male athletes should not use soy protein due to the phytoestrogen content, there is some research indicating that postmenopausal women may benefit from it. Finally, soy protein contains phytonutrients that may be beneficial for older adults with an increased risk of heart disease and low bone density.
Pea Protein
Pea protein is also a plant-based protein. Many people who have an allergy or are sensitive to dairy or eggs have turned to this protein type. It is also commonly the protein of choice for vegans and vegetarians. Pea protein is made from split yellow peas, which contain 8 of the 9 essential amino acids and also high in fiber. It is also high in BCAAs.
According to experts, pea protein digests and absorbs slower than whey, but faster than casein. In terms of satiety, it’s about the same. However, at this time, research has only been done on rats- there have been no human studies at this time.
Hemp Protein
Hemp protein is another plant-based protein. It is sourced from cannabis plants– but you can be sure that it does not contain high levels of THC. It is a newcomer to the arena but has quickly gained a lot of fans.
Studies indicate that hemp protein has high amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with several- but not all- of the essential amino acids. It is not considered a complete protein. Plus, the leucine and lysine levels are low.
Since hemp protein is still new, there has not been a lot of research dedicated to it. The one thing we do know is that it seems to be a high-quality source of plant protein.
Egg Protein
If you have a dairy sensitivity or allergy, but still want an animal-sourced protein- egg protein might be a good option. According to the experts, whole eggs are a wonderful meal because they keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Egg protein powder packs almost all of the benefits of whole eggs. The difference is, it’s made with egg whites and no yolks. Protein content is high- but without the yolks, there is no fat. Therefore, it won’t keep you feeling full as long.
However, it is important to note that, just like the other animal-sourced proteins, egg protein is a complete protein because it contains all 9 of the essential amino acids. It has the second highest amount of leucine compared to other options- whey is the first.
Egg protein does show some promise, though it hasn’t gotten the attention that many of the other sources of protein have. Again, if you have a dairy allergy or sensitivity, but want an animal-based source of protein, egg protein will do the job.
Brown Rice Protein
The final type of protein we’ll explore is brown rice protein. This is a plant-sourced protein that has been around for a while. Research shows that it is not a complete protein because it does not contain lysine. Therefore, it’s inferior to whey protein, especially in regard to muscle growth.
Unfortunately, we’re not completely sure about the quality of this protein source because there has not been much research done at this time.
Benefits Associated with Protein Powder
Studies have proven time and time again that protein powder offers many benefits for your health. After all, as we mentioned, protein is responsible for the health of your bones, skin, and muscles. Your body requires protein to function properly.
Below, we’re going to explore some of the most talked-about benefits associated with protein powder.
Assists with weight management
If your diet consists of foods that are high in protein or you are taking a protein supplement, you will feel fuller longer. This means that you won’t eat as much at once- and you won’t snack as much between meals. Therefore, it’s a lot easier to manage your weight-whether you are trying to lose a few pounds or you just want to stay right where you are.
Increasing Muscle Mass/Strength
Studies have shown that protein can help increase muscle mass and strength- especially when used along with a resistance training routine. Results were similar in males and females. In older populations, results are reduced because our protein needs increase as we age. Protein intake should be kept around 1.6 grams per kilogram of bodyweight because anything over that is irrelevant.
Facilitates Recovery Following Workouts
Protein doesn’t just increase muscle mass and strength- it can also facilitate recovery and repair to damaged muscles and tissues. In fact, this is one of the common reasons that people use protein powder- because it helps reduce the soreness following an intense workout session.
Improves Overall Nutrition
For adults age 19 and over, the recommended daily intake of protein is as follows:
- Females: 46 grams
- Males: 56 grams
If you are eating right, you should be able to get this through your diet. However, many people struggle to hit these amounts due to various reasons. If you’re not able to get this much protein in your daily meals, you may want to add a protein powder to your routine.
It’s also important to note that there’s nothing that says you can’t go over this amount and if you are a serious athlete, older adult, or have a chronic illness, you may find it beneficial to do so.
Conclusion
Your body needs protein in order to survive and thrive. Ideally, you should be getting your protein requirements through your diet. Unfortunately, this isn’t always feasible- which is whey protein powders are so popular.
The thing is, there are so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with it all, which is why we’ve compiled this list of what we feel are the 7 best protein powders on the market today. If you want to start using a protein powder, you should start with this list. You can be sure that these are 100% safe and effective. They have all been third-party tested for quality, potency, and purity. If the one you choose first doesn’t seem to be giving you what you need, try something else. You can feel free to experiment with them until you find one that you like that works.
Read: Best Creatine Monohydrate Supplements to Build Muscle
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Disclaimer:
Please understand that any advice or guidelines revealed here are not even remotely substitutes for sound medical or financial advice from a licensed healthcare provider or certified financial advisor. Make sure to consult with a professional physician or financial consultant before making any purchasing decision if you use medications or have concerns following the review details shared above. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed as the statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA, or Health Canada approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and do not provide any kind of get-rich money scheme. Reviewer is not responsible for pricing inaccuracies. Check product sales page for final prices.
