If you don’t like how a protein powder tastes, you are pretty unlikely to stick with it all the way to the bottom of the jug. This is a shame because the benefits of a higher-protein diet are really something that only happens over the course of weeks and months.  

If you want to increase your muscle mass, control cravings while losing weight, or boost recovery from your workouts, these are the best-tasting protein powders that may help make it happen. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Tasting Protein Powder

Our process for choosing what protein powders taste the best is very selective. And yes, to be clear, it involves us actually tasting over 75 proteins.

But to ensure that you can make a well-informed decision and don’t end up with an actual milkshake instead of a protein shake, we test for a wide range of criteria. These include not only flavor, but also price, formulation, solubility, side effects, third-party testing, and the customer experience. Try any of our recommendations and be confident that we did the homework so you don’t have to.

Our Top Picks for the Best Tasting Protein Powder

• Best Tasting Protein Powder Overall: Jacked Factory Authentic Iso
• Best Tasting Protein Powder for Women: Ritual Essential Protein Powder
• Best Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder: XWERKS Grow
• Best Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder
• Best Tasting Whey Protein Powder: Legion Whey+
• Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder
• Best Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder: Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Myprotein Impact Whey Protein
• Best Tasting Casein Protein Powder: Kaged Casein
• Best Tasting Low Carb Protein Powder: Onnit Whey Protein

Best Tasting Protein Powder Overall: Jacked Factory Authentic Iso

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

4.0

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.20 to $1.33
• Calories per serving: 110 to 130
• Protein per serving: 25 grams, depending on the flavor
• Flavors: Cookies & Cream, Unflavored (if you buy from Amazon)
• Third-party tested: No

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Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is an affordable, high-quality, great-tasting protein powder that packs a lot of flavor and a solid 25 grams of protein into a surprisingly low-calorie serving. 

This protein has a personal connection, as my hubby is a lifter on an eternal quest to find the protein that’ll help him build muscle mass the quickest, while still tasting like a well-earned post-workout treat. Jacked Factory’s rich chocolate-flavored whey supplement is the one he keeps coming back to.

The protein in Jacked Factory Authentics Iso powder is sourced from whey — a byproduct of dairy cheese production. Whey isolates aren’t usually considered to be the tastiest or creamiest of proteins since they have less fat and carb content than either whey concentrate or milk isolate protein. However, Jacked Authentic gets consistently high ratings from reviewers — and from my husband — for how well it mixes and the overall flavor.

As a dietitian, I like how simple the formulation is, with no fillers, gums, or dyes. It does use the artificial sweetener sucralose in its formulation which is a deal-breaker for some people, but does help in keeping the overall calories so low. There are a few users who report that they found this product overly sweet, but the general consensus is that each of the eight flavor options currently available brings the goods and tastes like what they promise.  

At the time of this writing, this product has a 4.4 out of five star overall rating on Amazon. Out of 509 reviewers, Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is given a 4.6 out of five stars for how easily it blends, 4.3 out of five stars for the quality of the ingredients used, and 4.2 out of five stars with regard to flavor.

RELATED: Best Protein Shakes

Best Tasting Protein Powder for Women: Ritual Essential Protein Powder

Ritual Essential Protein Powder

4.4

• Protein type: Pea protein
• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.66
• Calories per serving: 115 
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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Whether you are picking up toddlers all day, carrying heavy grocery bags, or hitting the weights, you need adequate protein to power you through it. Ritual Daily Shake is our top choice for women to help us accomplish everything we do in our day-to-day. It only has one flavor option available. However, you won’t be disappointed by the handcrafted vanilla, which is sourced from vanilla bean extract farmed and harvested in Madagascar. 

Building muscle and maintaining muscle mass requires good protein intake. Ritual uses organic pea protein and we know from randomized trials that pea protein positively helps repair muscle damage after exercise. (8) And as a mom of two small kids, I am here to tell you: yes, running after your wild toddlers in the yard definitely counts as exercise. 

To really determine if the flavor blends well, our product tester tried Ritual Daily Shake two ways: in a blender cup with plain water and in a smoothie with strawberries and blueberries. She gave it a 5 out of 5 rating for solubility. It dissolved easily in water alone and had a great consistency and a smooth texture.

Our tester noticed a slightly chalky aftertaste, but it wasn’t enough to keep her from finishing her drink or using the protein powder again in the future. She also found that the taste enhanced the smoothie and did not overwhelm it. She ranks the taste for Ritual Daily Shake as a 4 out of 5. 

Best Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder: XWERKS Grow

XWERKS Grow

4.3

Protein type: Whey protein isolate

Number of servings: 30

Cost: $1.97 per serving

Calories per serving: 110

Protein per serving: 23 to 25 grams

Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Vanilla

Third-party tested: No

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XWERKS Grow protein powder is sourced from dairy cows that are not exposed to hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides and are 100% grass-fed only. The formulation is simple, clean, and doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients, sweeteners, flavors, or coloring. 

Like some of our other top picks, this powder’s protein source is whey isolate, which means it has been micro-filtered to remove excess calories caused by non-protein sources like fat. (3) XWERKS Grow also has about 4 grams of glutamic acid per scoop. Glutamic acid is noteworthy for its ability to assist in muscle growth, but it is also a flavor enhancer that can improve our sensitivity to the fifth basic taste: umami. (4)(5)

Our supplement tester scored XWERKS Grow protein powder’s formulation, taste, and solubility as a 5 out of five. They really emphasized that this product is incredibly smooth – your days of gritty chocolate flavoring are over. Our Breaking Muscle team member reported this as the “finest protein powder I’ve ever drank” and was excited by how easily XWERKS dissolves. You barely need a shaker and blender ball to mix this protein powder to get the perfect amount of chocolate flavoring. 

Best Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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As more of the population becomes health-conscious, there has been a big push to create plant-based protein powders. Plant-derived protein sources may have protective factors against chronic diseases like diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and chronic kidney disease. (6) Of the plant-based protein powders currently available, Transparent Labs Rice & Pea protein powder is our top pick. 

What made it stand out? Transparent Labs brand does a fantastic job of being exactly that — transparent. There are no proprietary blends in any of their supplements. They tell you exactly how much of each ingredient you get in a serving of their products. For every 32.05 gram scoop of the vegan protein powder, you get 20,000 milligrams of organic rice protein and 9,411 milligrams of organic pea protein isolate. Blending these two organic protein sources creates a “complete protein,” which means it contains sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids. 

While Transparent Labs’ chocolate vegan protein powder can work in water alone, the texture doesn’t lend itself to this simple preparation as readily as egg or whey. Our tester reports that this powder had a somewhat gritty texture.

This seems to be the recurring theme among reviewers on their website as well. Out of 286 reviews, Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein holds 4.2 out of 5 stars. Many reviewers report that they really “clicked” with this protein once they added it to hot and cold cereals, pancake mix, or in a non-water beverage such as almond milk. 

Best Tasting Whey Protein Powder: Legion Whey+

Legion Whey+

4.0

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30 to 78
• Cost per serving: $1.54 to $2.00
• Calories per serving: 100 to 130
• Protein per serving: 21 to 24 grams
• Flavors: Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappucino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored
• Third-party tested: Labdoor

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The “best tasting whey protein powder” title goes to a product that is made without the use of added sugars, has 100 percent natural ingredients (meaning it is naturally flavored and sweetened), and has a third-party testing grade of “A” from Labdoor. Legion Whey+ is sure to have a flavor that you will enjoy because there are just over 15 flavor options!

The Breaking Muscle product review staff gushed about the Cinnamon Cereal flavor option and gave it a 4.5 out of 5 because it left them wanting more of that well-known Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal flavor. If you don’t like cinnamon, another one of the classic or unique options, such as Banana Bread, might speak to you.

Many reviewers specifically praise this lactose-free protein for how easy it is to digest. This makes it a popular choice for fortifying everyday foods with protein-rich flavor. For example, you could add cereal-type flavors to literal cereal, add French vanilla to tropical fruit breakfast smoothies, or put birthday cake protein powder in cake balls. 

This protein powder blends perfectly and many users (including our product tester) report no issues with Legion Whey+ powder’s solubility.

The only complaint our review staff lodged was against the Legion website itself. The customer service policies and actual customer service team are all great, but navigating the website requires getting past a ton of obnoxious pop-up ads and personal email requests. If you can get past these and add the powder to your shopping cart, your prize will be what we think is the best-tasting whey protein powder on the market. 

RELATED: Best Whey Protein Powder

Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder

Vega Sport Protein

4.2

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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If you are a practicing vegan or simply prefer plant-based protein powder, Vega Sport Premium hits some big checkboxes: a complete amino acid profile, third-party testing, and user-beloved flavors.  

Vega Sport Premium is sourced from a unique protein blend combination of peas, pumpkin seeds, organic sunflower seeds, and alfalfa. This gives it a light, not overly pea-y texture that mixes equally well in plain water, a smoothie, or any dairy-free beverage.

This supplement is made without any added sugars — meaning that the creamy flavor you get comes from all-natural ingredients, plus the plant-based sweetener stevia. While many stevia-flavored protein powders can have a unique flavor or aftertaste, our testers report that the stevia in Vega is undetectable, and the overall flavor is natural and clean. With regard to flavor, users couldn’t be happier.

On their website, they have had 499 reviewers say their peace. Of the 499 reviews, 419 gave this product a 5 out of 5-star rating, 56 gave it a 4 out of 5, 22 gave it 3 out of 5 stars, and 1 user each gave a 2-star and 1-star rating.  

With regard to mixability, this product has earned a 4.5 out of five stars from us because it blends so easily. Try this supplement in coffee, a blueberry and strawberry smoothie, and even mixed in with peanut butter on a PB&J sandwich!

RELATED: Best Pea Protein Powder

Best Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder: Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

3.6

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.10 per serving
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 26 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Strawberry, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality Labs

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Vanilla-flavored protein powders are flooding the protein supplement market right now. In fact, if you were to search “vanilla protein powder” on Amazon, you’d find over 2,000 results. We don’t hand out the award for our top pick for best-tasting vanilla powder lightly, but Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate certainly earned it. 

While it’s more expensive than most other protein powders on our list, our Breaking Muscle testing team gave Swolverine a solid 5 out of 5 for its formulation. For only 110 calories, you get 26 grams of protein but only one gram of carbs, and 0.5 grams of fat. 

This makes this product ideal for those looking to maintain muscle mass while dieting. Consuming whey protein has been directly correlated with a reduced risk of muscle mass loss, increasing skeletal lean muscle mass, and preventing muscle mass from being used for energy when utilizing caloric restriction. (2)

Our testers gave Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate a 4 out of 5 ranking for both taste and solubility. They report that a serving-size scoop blends quickly and completely in a run-of-the-mill blender bottle, even noting that it was “kinda weird” how easily this powder turns into a thin mixture. This may be off-putting for some users though who prefer their protein shakes to be thicker.

For this reason, if you’re someone who prefers a thicker protein shake, consider adding Swolverine to milk or dairy-free milk. When mixed with milk, Swolverine received high praise from our tester who said it was very rich and tasted great.

Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Myprotein Impact Whey Protein

Myprotein Impact Whey Protein Powder

3.8

• Protein type: Whey protein concentrate
• Number of servings: 10 to 200
• Cost: $0.95 to $1.30 per serving
• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 19 grams
• Flavors: Birthday Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Smooth, Chocolate Stevia, Cinnamon Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Marshmallow Cereal, Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Cream, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Stevia, White Chocolate Peppermint
• Third-party tested: No

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If you are picky about flavor, MyProtein Impact Whey Protein powder probably has the answer. At the time of writing, it comes in 20 different flavors. Flavors like white chocolate peppermint, salted caramel, and birthday cake give you a wide range of non-junk food options to support your weight loss journey, making this an easy pick for the best-tasting protein powder for weight loss. 

A scoop of MyProtein Impact provides 18 grams of protein, which is on the low side, but impressively, it does it with just 1.5 to two grams of fat, three grams of carbohydrates, and 95 to 100 calories per serving (depending on which flavor you decide to roll with). Plenty of research has supported whey protein supplementation as a way to manage caloric intake, reduce fat mass, and prevent muscle mass catabolism (breakdown) when dieting. (7) And when you’re dieting, your protein needs might actually be higher than when you’re eating in a caloric surplus. MyProtein Impact can be a low-calorie way to reach your recommended daily intake of protein, while still getting to partake in fun, dessert-like flavors. 

Of all the flavor options available, the Cookies and Cream option doesn’t appear to be very popular. However, the Fruity Cereal, Chocolate Brownie, and Birthday Cake options get the most consistently high marks from our reviewers. But because there are so many fun flavor options, try and get creative in the way you use them. You could add protein powder to a fruity smoothie bowl or make high-protein baked goods. Several reviewers love how easily this product mixes without leaving a gritty texture, even when mixed with plain water or low-fat milk. 

RELATED: Best Supplements for Weight Loss

Best Tasting Casein Protein Powder: Kaged Casein

Kaged Casein

4.0

• Protein type: Isolated Micellar Casein 
• Number of servings: 29
• Cost per serving: $1.38
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 25 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter 
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport

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If you have searched for protein powder supplements, you have probably found whey protein to be the most popular. However, it is not the only dairy-based protein source. Allow me to introduce casein. Casein isn’t as popular in the protein powder world as whey, but it offers some unique advantages that are worth taking seriously. First and foremost, it’s a slow-digesting protein, whereas whey gets digested quickly. (9) But this just means that you can use casein protein powders, like Kaged Casein, for different scenarios than whey protein. 

Since casein hangs out in the digestive tract longer than whey protein, it helps you to feel fuller for longer, while also helping to control glucose (blood sugar) levels, and facilitating muscle growth and repair. When compared to whey, casein is best used during periods of fasting, such as long breaks between meals and even sleep. (9) 

Kaged also packs a punch when it comes to calcium – delivering 608 milligrams per scoop. This is a hefty dose of calcium when compared to other protein powders. To put it in perspective, the amount of calcium present in the other powders in this review varies from 0 milligrams (Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder) to 260 milligrams (Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder). Calcium is an important mineral and electrolyte used for muscle contraction. Without it, we would not be able to flush our muscles with energy in the form of glucose during exercise and post-workout recovery. (10) So, we appreciate that Kaged Casein adds in a healthy amount.  

Most protein powders that use casein in their formulation are thicker in texture than plain whey. Our Breaking Muscle review staff gave this product a 4 out of 5 for formulation and solubility. We deducted a point for mixability due to how long it takes to get this protein to actually dissolve. However, after a little while, the mixture became pretty smooth and ended up creamier and richer than any whey shake.

We also gave it 4 out of 5 stars for taste. We tried the Vanilla Shake flavor, which doesn’t currently appear to be available. However, customers on Kaged’s website have praised the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor. One customer called it “amazing” and another said he has “tried a few others and always come[s] back to Kaged chocolate peanut butter.”

Many reviewers actually appreciate this extra thickness, as it results in a milkshake-like treat, especially if you cool it down in the fridge or freezer before drinking. Kasein also works great in food preparations like chia seed pudding, protein ice cream, or no-bake cheesecake bites.  

Best Tasting Low-Carb Protein Powder: Onnit Whey Protein

Onnit Whey Protein

4.4

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.00 per serving
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Flavors: Mexican Chocolate, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport

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For only three grams of carbs per serving, Onnit Whey brings offers unique flavors and a few perks for your digestive system. Along with 20 grams of whey protein isolate, each scoop brings a blend of digestive enzymes and a dose of the healthy probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus. These added components are known to aid in carbohydrate digestion. Those who struggle with whey-based protein powders may find Onnit Whey easier to digest and experience fewer GI symptoms. 

Our product review team gives Onnit Whey Protein powder a 5 out of 5 stars for solubility but a 3.75 out of 5 stars for taste. Our reviewer found the texture to be rather thin when mixed with water alone, but far superior when added to oat milk. However, she loved the Mexican Chocolate flavor, finding it more unique than the usual chocolate protein formula. 

Reviewers on Onnit’s website concur that the mixability is great and that the protein powder blends smoothly into smoothies, cereals, and milk (both animal and plant-based). However, not all long-time users rave about the new vanilla flavor ingredient formulation. If you try this powder and decide that it’s not for you, don’t worry — we rank Onnit’s customer service 5 out of 5 stars due to their responsiveness online and their money-back guarantee. 

Benefits of Protein Powder

Protein powder supplements offer plenty of benefits. You should consider adding one to your diet if any of the following support your health and fitness goals: 

• Increased overall muscle mass and strength (1)
• Slowing or preventing muscle loss from dieting or aging (2)(7)
• Improving weight loss and weight management(7)
• Reduced risk of certain chronic diseases (6) 
• Quicker post-workout recovery time (1)
• Improved satiety (your sensation of fullness) (7)

What To Look For in the Best Tasting Protein Powder

Choosing which dietary supplement to roll with is a big decision. We understand that there are a lot of things to consider when researching which protein powder will fit the bill for your individualized health goal and be enjoyable to drink. As a registered dietitian, I also recommend considering solubility, texture, cost, calories per scoop, macro and micronutrient formulation, added ingredients, and lingering side effects.

Macronutrients

When you read a nutrition food label, you will notice percentages to the right of the fat and carbohydrate listings. However, if you keep scrolling down the label, you will find that our third and final macronutrient, protein, does not have a percentage for the daily value listed next to it. Percent daily value is based on a 2,000-calorie daily intake. This percentage is not required to be listed on the food label for protein.

Since the amount of protein needed in a day varies so drastically with regard to physical activity, medical concerns, age, sex, and anthropometrics (such as height and weight), you will only find it represented as grams. What your body needs from a protein powder will be based on your desired nutrition targets.  

• Physical activity. Multiply your body weight in kilograms by 0.8 grams of protein to determine your daily protein needs. As you increase your output through minimal, moderate, and high-intensity workouts, you will need to multiply your body weight in kilograms by 1.0, 1.3, and 1.6 grams of protein, respectively, to build lean body mass appropriately. It would be wise to incorporate a protein powder with some carbohydrates for post-workout recovery to help replenish your muscles’ energy storage. 
• Anthropometrics and overall goal. You will need to adjust the amount of protein you intake daily to align with your nutrition goals. If you want to gain muscle mass and recover quicker post-workout, a powder with a higher protein content can help. If you want to lose weight and implement protein intake as a way to help with satiety, the amount you will need will heavily depend on your current height and weight. 
• Medical concerns. To promote healing, our protein needs generally increase post-surgery and even when recovering from illness. Those who have diabetes usually need a higher protein intake than the general population. However, those who are not on dialysis but have impaired renal function will have decreased protein needs. 

Protein Source 

Protein can come from a wide range of plant or animal-based sources. The most common form of protein found in protein powders is whey protein. Whey, along with casein, is a byproduct of the cheese-making process. The main difference between these two popular proteins is the rate at which we absorb them. 

Casein is digested and absorbed slowly because it curdles when exposed to stomach acid. It can take as much as  5 hours or more to fully digest. On the contrary, your body breaks down whey usually within 90 minutes after consumption. Casein is great for when we know we won’t eat for a long time and need slow-released amino acids — such as before going to bed. Whey protein is ideal for post-workout recovery and muscle synthesis. (9)(11)

Plant-based protein is just as reliable as whey protein when it comes to gaining muscle and cultivating lean body mass. Many studies have shown that when pea protein and brown rice protein contain the same amount of protein as animal sources, they are as effective at delaying workout fatigue and improving post-workout recovery times. So if you are vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a plant-friendly option, don’t feel like you have to compromise in either quality or taste. 

Other Ingredients

Be sure to review the list of ingredients on the nutrition facts label when choosing a protein powder. The manufacturer will note on the label if their protein powder contains common allergens. Check the label carefully to make sure you are not exposed to anything that could cause an allergic reaction or gastrointestinal upset, such as soy, artificial sweeteners, dairy, nuts, or gluten. 

It is always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian nutritionist who can personalize dietary supplements to your health needs. Things like fiber, probiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants should be taken into consideration when choosing a dietary supplement, to ensure it helps bolster your health targets. 

Flavor and Solubility 

We can’t skip over flavor when considering which protein powders taste the best. Drinking the same protein powder every day can feel repetitive and boring, which can discourage us from using our protein supplements as we should. To prevent this, I encourage my clients to shake up the way they approach protein powder and incorporate it into their diets in a creative way. 

For example, adding chocolate peanut butter-flavored protein powder to muffin mix would be a great way to fortify the mix with more nutrients. Mixing vanilla protein powder into a cold coffee can make a yummy iced latte. Cinnamon cereal and pumpkin spice choices would be delicious flavor options to put in pancake batter, bread dough, and overnight oats.

Solubility is another crucial factor to consider. If a protein powder doesn’t dissolve well and forms clumps when you mix it, you probably won’t want to consume it again. According to our testers, the products above had varying levels of solubility. The Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein Powder scored a 3.75. The other products we tested scored a 4 or 5 on the grading scale, with 5 being deemed perfect for mixability.

Third-Party Testing  

Third-party testing for label accuracy and purity isn’t the norm in the supplement industry, but it’s important to look for. Third-party testing shows that a manufacturer went the extra mile to prove that their ingredient list is free of banned substances, microbial life, heavy metals, and toxins and that it contains only what the label says. 

Final Thoughts

Incorporating protein powder into your fitness and health routine doesn’t have to be boring. To help stir your tastebuds, we have compiled our picks for the best-tasting protein powder currently on the market. We have a rigorous vetting process for testing products and out of the nearly 100 protein powders we have tried, only 10 made the cut. 

Protein powder is an excellent way to supplement your diet to increase your overall protein consumption. Keep in mind that protein powder should be exactly that though – supplemental and not serve as a routine meal replacement. A diversified, well-balanced diet consisting of whole food sources from each food group should constitute your normal eating patterns. However, if you are looking for a great-tasting, low-carbohydrate, low-fat, calorie-conscious protein supplement, we have you covered. Protein powder is used to increase muscle mass, curb hunger, improve exercise endurance, delay fatigue onset during a workout, and recover quicker so you can hit the gym again feeling fresh. 

Best Tasting Protein Powder: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Tasting Protein Powder Overall	Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder	Best Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder	Best Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder	Best Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder	Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Best Tasting Protein Powder for Women	Best Tasting Whey Protein Powder	Best Tasting Casein Protein Powder	Best Tasting Low-Carb Protein Powder
Jacked Factory Authentic ISO	Vega Sport Protein	Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate	XWERKS Grow	Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein	Myprotein Impact Whey Protein Powder	Ritual Essential Protein Powder	Legion Whey+	Kaged Casein	Onnit Whey Protein
Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.2	Primary Rating: 3.6	Primary Rating: 4.3	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 4.4	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.4
Description: Protein type: Whey isolate Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.20 to $1.33 Calories per serving: 110 to 130 Protein per serving: 25 grams, depending on the flavor Flavors: Cookies & Cream, Unflavored (if you buy from Amazon) Third-party tested: No	Description: Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed Number of servings: 12 to 20 Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving Calories per serving: 170 to 180 Protein per serving: 30 grams Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport	Description: Protein type: Whey isolate Number of servings: 30 Cost: $2.10 per serving Calories per serving: 110 Protein per serving: 26 grams Flavors: Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Strawberry, Vanilla Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality Labs	Description: Protein type: Whey protein isolate Number of servings: 30 Cost: $1.97 per serving Calories per serving: 110 Protein per serving: 23 to 25 grams Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Vanilla Third-party tested: No	Description: Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein Number of servings: 30 Cost: $1.67 per serving Calories per serving: 130 to 150 Protein per serving: 24 grams Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla  Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs	Description: Protein type: Whey protein concentrate Number of servings: 10 to 200 Cost: $0.95 to $1.30 per serving Calories per serving: 100 Protein per serving: 19 grams Flavors: Birthday Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Smooth, Chocolate Stevia, Cinnamon Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Marshmallow Cereal, Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Cream, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Stevia, White Chocolate Peppermint Third-party tested: No	Description: Protein type: Pea protein Number of servings: 15 Cost per serving: $2.66 Calories per serving: 115  Protein per serving: 20 grams  Flavors: Vanilla Third-party tested: Yes	Description: Protein type: Whey isolate Number of servings: 30 to 78 Cost per serving: $1.54 to $2.00 Calories per serving: 100 to 130 Protein per serving: 21 to 24 grams Flavors: Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappucino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored Third-party tested: Labdoor	Description: Protein type: Isolated Micellar Casein  Number of servings: 29 Cost per serving: $1.38 Calories per serving: 110 Protein per serving: 25 grams  Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter  Third-party tested: Informed Sport	Description: Protein type: Whey isolate Number of servings: 30 Cost: $2.00 per serving Calories per serving: 110 Protein per serving: 20 grams Flavors: Mexican Chocolate, Vanilla Third-party tested: Informed Sport
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Best Tasting Protein Powder Overall

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.20 to $1.33
• Calories per serving: 110 to 130
• Protein per serving: 25 grams, depending on the flavor
• Flavors: Cookies & Cream, Unflavored (if you buy from Amazon)
• Third-party tested: No

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Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder

Vega Sport Protein

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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Best Tasting Vanilla Protein Powder

Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate

Primary Rating:

3.6

Description:

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.10 per serving
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 26 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Strawberry, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality Labs

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Best Tasting Chocolate Protein Powder

XWERKS Grow

Primary Rating:

4.3

Description:

• Protein type: Whey protein isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.97 per serving
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 23 to 25 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: No

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Best Tasting Plant-Based Protein Powder

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss

Myprotein Impact Whey Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Protein type: Whey protein concentrate
• Number of servings: 10 to 200
• Cost: $0.95 to $1.30 per serving
• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 19 grams
• Flavors: Birthday Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Brownie, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Smooth, Chocolate Stevia, Cinnamon Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Marshmallow Cereal, Mocha, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Cream, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Stevia, White Chocolate Peppermint
• Third-party tested: No

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Best Tasting Protein Powder for Women

Ritual Essential Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein
• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.66
• Calories per serving: 115 
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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Best Tasting Whey Protein Powder

Legion Whey+

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30 to 78
• Cost per serving: $1.54 to $2.00
• Calories per serving: 100 to 130
• Protein per serving: 21 to 24 grams
• Flavors: Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappucino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored
• Third-party tested: Labdoor

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Best Tasting Casein Protein Powder

Kaged Casein

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Protein type: Isolated Micellar Casein 
• Number of servings: 29
• Cost per serving: $1.38
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 25 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter 
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport

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Best Tasting Low-Carb Protein Powder

Onnit Whey Protein

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.00 per serving
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Flavors: Mexican Chocolate, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport

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FAQs

Research

1. Kadam BR, Ambadkar RK, Rathod KS, et al. Health benefits of whey – a brief review. Intern Journ of Livestock Res. 2018;8(5):31-49. doi: 10.5455/ijlr.20170411022323
2. Devries MC, Phillips SM. Supplemental protein in support of muscle mass and health: advantage whey. Journ of Food Sci. 2015;80:8-15. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.12802
3. Foegeding EA, Davis JP, Doucet D, et al. Advances in modifying and understanding whey protein functionality. Trends in Food Sci & Tech. 2002;13(5):151-159. Doi: 10.1016/S0924-2244(02)00111-5
4. Kamei Y, Hatazawa Y, Uchitomi R, et al. Regulation of skeletal muscle function by amino acids. Nutrients. 2020;12(1):261. doi: 10.3390/nu12010261
5. Kurihra K. Umami the fifth basic taste: history of studies on receptor mechanisms and role as a food flavor. BioMed Res Intern. 2015. doi: 10.1155/2015/189402
6. Cao X, Liao W, Wang S. Food protein-derived biocative peptides ofr the management of nutrition related chronic diseases. Adv in Food and Nutr Res. 2022;101:277-307. doi: 10.1016/bs.afnr.2022.04.004 
7. Samal JRK, Samal IR . Protein supplements: pros and cons. Journ of Diet Supp. 2018;15(3):365-371. doi: 10.1080/19390211.2017.1353567
8. Nieman DC, Zwetsloot KA, Simonson AJ, et al. Effects of whey and pea protein supplementation on post-eccentric exercise muscle damage: a randomized trial. Nutrients. 2020;12(8):2382. doi: 10.3390/nu12082382
9. Lambers TT, Van den Bosch WG, Jong S. Fast and slow proteins: modulation of the gastric behavior of whey and casein in vitro. Food Dig. 2013;4:1-6. doi: 10.1007/s13228-012-0028-7
10. Girgis CM, Clifton-Bligh RJ, Hamrick MW, et al. The roles of vitamin D in skeletal muscle: form, function, and metabolism. Endo Rev. 2013;34(1):33-83. doi: 10.1210/er.2012-1012
11. Dangin M, Boirie Y, Guillet C, et al. Influence of the protein digestion rate on protein turnover in young and elderly subjects. J Nutr. 2002;132(10):3228S-33S. doi:10.1093/jn/131.10.3228S

The post Best Tasting Protein Powder (2024): Flavors You’ll Crave and Quality You Can Trust appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), I am often asked about the benefits of supplementing with greens powders. I always recommend that my clients still consume whole fruits and vegetables. However, if they want to add a greens powder, I encourage them to do their due diligence and research the supplement to ensure it aligns with their nutrition goals. Lucky for you, I have compiled my research on our top eight picks for the best greens powders around. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Greens Powder

Greens powders flood the supplement market now, and they all claim to support various health goals. It is important to be mindful of the brand you roll with and ensure the product you choose contains high-quality ingredients.

To prevent you from wasting your time and money, our Breaking Muscle product review team carefully vets the products we review. We have tested nearly 40 greens powders and ranked them based on flavor, texture, added nutrients, cost, formulation, and any unwanted side effects. After scoring the products on a scale of one to five for each category, we assigned them an overall score and used it to create the list below.

Our Top Picks for the Best Greens Powder

• Best Greens Powder Overall: Athletic Greens AG1
• Best Tasting Greens Powder: Kaged Outlive 100
• Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss: Legion Genesis Greens Supplement
• Best Greens Powder for Gut Health: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens
• Best Greens Powder for Bloating: Bulletproof Greens
• Best Organic Greens Powder: Onnit Shroom Tech Greens
• Best Affordable Greens Powder: Jacked Factory Green Surge
• Best Greens Powder for Smoothies: Orgain Organic Superfoods

Best Greens Powder Overall: Athletic Greens AG1

AG1

4.3

• Number of servings: 30 to 60
• Cost per serving: Starts at $2.48
• Key highlights: 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole-food-sourced ingredients
• Potential benefits: Can support immune, digestive, and brain health; promote stronger hair and nails; and help you feel more energized

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Athletic Greens AG1 is arguably the most popular greens powder on the market. After completing our own research and product testing, we have to agree. This greens powder is vegan and vegetarian-friendly and major allergen-free, making it agreeable for most individuals’ diets. It is non-GMO and not artificially sweetened, colored, flavored, or preserved. 

As a dietitian, I appreciate when manufacturers go through the extra effort of creating an accurate, detail-oriented nutrition facts label. Despite a few proprietary blends, Athletic Greens AG1 is pretty transparent about the ingredients that go into its formulation: probiotics, digestive enzymes, antioxidants, prebiotics, adaptogens, green superfood complexes, phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals. You will meet your daily recommended amount for vitamin C and vitamin E, two powerful antioxidants, in one serving of AG1.

Consisting of 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food sourced ingredients in total, Athletic Greens AG1 lives up to its online hype with our product review teams. Despite there being no flavor options, we still rate it at a 4.5 out of 5 stars for flavor. The overall taste is subtle, but there are hints of pineapple and vanilla flavoring.

According to Amanda Dvorak, Breaking Muscle’s Reviews Editor, the powder settles shortly after blending it in a shaker bottle. Also, if you struggle at all with texture, it is a tad gritty and has a foam layer that stays with the drink as you consume it. Amanda rated the solubility 2 out of 5 stars for these reasons.

RELATED: Athletic Greens AG1 Review

Best Tasting Greens Powder: Kaged Outlive 100

Kaged Outlive 100

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Key ingredients: Spirulina Powder, Alfalfa Grass Leaf Powder, Barley Grass Young Leaf Powder, Chlorella Powder, Acacia Fiber, Ashwagandha Root Extract
• Certifications: Informed Sport

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As a food expert who is routinely researching dietary supplements currently on the market, I can confidently say that it is difficult to find greens powder brands that offer a variety of flavors. However, Kaged Outlive 100 offers Lemon, Berry, and Apple Cinnamon. Not only are the flavors great but they taste great too — making it our top pick for the best-tasting greens powder. 

This greens powder is rated highly by verified customers for taste, ingredient quality, and mixability. Based on 646 reviews on the Kaged website as of this writing, Kaged Outlive 100 holds 4.8 out of 5 stars. The blendability makes it easy to add as a nutrient-packed ingredient to different recipes. Reviewers love the Apple Cinnamon flavor mixed with oatmeal. Try throwing some berries in there, too, so that you capture an extra food group with your breakfast.  

Reviewers have mentioned that it does not have an artificial taste. They also appreciate the affordability compared to other popular greens powders. At around $1.67 per serving, it’s more affordable than AG1 Athletic Greens (which starts at $2.63 per serving).

To keep costs down even further, you can subscribe and save 10 percent on your orders through Kaged’s website. They also offer a fully refunded, 30-day return policy if you are not totally satisfied. According to their customers, the Kaged customer service department is great. 

Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss: Legion Genesis Greens Supplement

Legion Genesis

4.4

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.60
• Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina Whole Plant Powder, Astragalus Root Extract 5:1, Reishi Mushroom Fruit Powder, Maca Root Extract, Dong Quai Root Plant Extract 
• Certifications: Labdoor Tested for Sport

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The top ingredient in Legion Genesis Greens Supplement is five grams of organic spirulina whole plant powder. Spirulina is a blue-green algae that may help improve lipid panels (specifically cholesterol levels) and reduce body fat, waist circumference, and appetite. (1) Packed with 100 percent naturally occurring ingredients, Legion Genesis Greens Supplement is our top pick for the best greens powder for weight loss. 

Our Breaking Muscle product review team gives this Legion greens powder 4 out of 5 stars for its formulation. The amount of protein per serving (four grams) is impressive for a greens powder supplement, and protein has been linked to sustaining satiety to help curb cravings and manage your weight. (2)

Legion Genesis also contains clinically effective doses of organic spirulina (five grams), dong quai root (1.25 grams), astragalus membranaceus (three grams), and reishi mushroom (three grams). These ingredients are linked to promoting immunity, potentially improving blood flow, and/or possibly decreasing your risk for chronic diseases.

Legion Genesis does not disappoint when it comes to flavor or solubility. We give flavor 4 stars and solubility 4.5 stars. Our review team tried the Acai Berry version and found it to taste like berry-flavored greens, so it meets expectations.

The only reason that solubility did not get a perfect 5-star rating is because of how long we had to physically stir it to get all of the powder to dissolve. Honestly, though, we believe that if we threw it in a blender, it would likely blend just fine. 

RELATED: Best Supplements for Weight Loss

Best Greens Powder for Gut Health: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

3.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.53
• Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina, Organic Chlorella, Organic Acacia Fiber, Green Banana Flour, Chicory Root
• Certifications: Informed Choice Certified

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Dietitians and other allied health professionals have found through national surveying that roughly five percent of the population meets the recommended amount of 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily. This is concerning for many reasons, namely the development of chronic illnesses (like heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes), gastrointestinal disorders, and cancers. (3)

So, how can you up your fiber intake? With Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens! Most prebiotics are a type of non-digestible fiber. Per every 15.5-gram scoop, you will get six grams of dietary fiber. The fiber sources in this greens powder are organic acacia fiber, green banana flour, Jerusalem artichoke fiber, and chicory root. 

A few members of our review team commented that this supplement is particularly good when mixed into fruit juices. They found that the best combo was orange juice and the Peach Mango flavored greens powder. They gave this product 4 out of 5 stars for taste and 4.5 stars for solubility. We found that it mixes with ease, and online customer reviews sing the same tune. 

RELATED: Best Probiotic

Best Greens Powder for Bloating: Bulletproof Greens

Bulletproof Greens

3.8

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Key ingredients: Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Vitamin B12, Organic Spinach, Ginseng Root Extract, Green Tea Extract 
• Certifications: No certifications listed, but the website does state that ingredients are submitted to standardized quality assurance testing

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Let your bloating issues be a thing of the past with Bulletproof Greens. This greens powder contains a unique combination of digestive aides to help your digestive system perform well. It also gets bonus points for being one of the most affordable options currently on the market. It costs about $1.67 per serving and is cheaper than Athletic Greens AG1 (which starts at $2.63 per serving) and Onnit Shroom Tech Greens (which costs around $2.00 per serving).

Our product reviewers and online customers agree that you will either love or hate the flavor since it has a strong pineapple taste. We gave it 3 out of 5 stars for taste because we didn’t particularly enjoy it but recognize that people who love pineapple will probably like it.

However, you can always get creative with how you use your greens powder — it does not have to be mixed with only water. Try adding Bulletproof Greens to a fruit smoothie, orange juice, or pineapple popsicle mix. Based on our testing, it blends effortlessly in a shaker bottle or in a glass with a spoon and is easy to incorporate into various liquids. For solubility, we rated it 5 out of 5 stars.

Many customers report zero negative side effects. In fact, most report that it is easily digestible and doesn’t cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Our product tester didn’t experience any significant side effects when she tested Bulletproof Greens. This may be due to the low sodium content of 100 milligrams per serving. This is low compared to other greens powders, which is good because excess sodium intake can lead to water retention. 

In every scoop, you will get two billion colony-forming units (CFU) of the probiotic Bacillus coagulans and a combination of digestive enzymes like amylase and lipase. These ingredients may aid macronutrient digestion and improve clinical symptoms of bloating, especially for those with intestinal diseases like irritable bowel syndrome. (4) Amylase helps break down carbohydrates, and lipase helps to break down fats. (5)

Best Organic Greens Powder: Onnit Shroom Tech Greens

Onnit Shroom Tech Greens

3.6

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Key ingredients: Organic Rishi, Organic Lion’s Mane, Organic Kale, Organic Spinach, Organic Oat Grass 
• Certifications: Certified USDA Organic

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It is not easy to obtain the 100 percent organic certification. Most organic products meet the second-tier standard of having 95 percent of their product derived from organic sources. To obtain the 100 percent organic certification, every single ingredient has to be organically sourced. (6) It is impressive that Onnit has gone to such great lengths to deliver us a non-GMO, major allergen-free, fully organic greens powder.

Delivering half a cup of certified organic vegetables per serving, Onnit Shroom Tech Greens is nutrient-dense to help keep you healthy. The formulation is simple: organic cordyceps, organic reishi, organic lion’s mane, organic kale, organic broccoli, and organic spirulina. These ingredients are packed with vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin B6 — all known for potentially being able to support the immune system. (7)

Onnit Shroom Tech Greens blends beautifully but has a strong mushroom flavor. We gave the taste 3 out of 5 stars. Our product tester didn’t enjoy it on its own but said that mixing it with V8 helped improve the taste. That said, if you love mushrooms, we think you’ll like this greens powder.

The powder dissolved completely when we tested it, though, so we gave it 5 out of 5 stars for solubility. This can be a huge plus for anyone who prefers a non-gritty greens power. 

Unlike any of the other greens powders in this review, Onnit Shroom Tech Greens comes in pre-portioned to-go packets. This is convenient for many reasons, but Onnit really has the adventurer in mind. If you are looking for a nutritious companion buddy for your next hike, Shroom Tech Greens has your back. 

RELATED: Best Organic Protein Powder

Best Affordable Greens Powder: Jacked Factory Green Surge

Jacked Factory Green Surge Greens Powder

4.0

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.00
• Key ingredients: Inulin, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Organic Collards Leaf Powder, Tapioca Maltodextrin Digestive Enzyme, Grape Seed Extract 
• Certifications: Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) Certified

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If you have ever looked at Jacked Factory’s product offerings and noticed their reasonable prices, you would not be surprised that the Breaking Muscle team chose it as the best affordable greens powder. For a literal dollar per serving as of this writing, the price of the Green Surge Superfood Powder is unbeatable. It is rare that we give out a perfect 5 out of 5 stars for the price per serving, but Jacked Factory Green Surge made it possible. 

Furthermore, if you order from the Jacked Factory website, you can opt to subscribe and save. This option gets you an additional 15 percent off and free shipping on all recurring orders. There is also a 100 percent hassle-free money-back guarantee if you are not totally happy with your purchase. 

Jacked Factory Green Surge is manufactured in a cGMP-certified factory in the United States. The cGMP certification establishes trust between consumers and manufacturers. By getting this certification, Jacked Factory shows that affordability does not always mean lower quality.

Green Surge is available in Mixed Berry, Unflavored, Mint Chocolate, Sour Apple, and Lemon Lime flavors. Our team gave taste and solubility 4.5 out of 5 stars. We tried the Mixed Berry and still noticed a grassy taste, but the berry flavor made it more palatable. We also had no issues with dissolvability.

Best Greens Powder for Smoothies: Orgain Organic Superfoods

Orgain Organic Superfoods

4.0

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $1.24
• Key ingredients: Amaranth, Chia Sprout, Flax Sprout, Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Ginger Root
• Certifications: Certified USDA Organic

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At one point or another, most of us have added a dietary supplement to a smoothie to help enhance the flavor or provide extra nutrients. We are probably most familiar with the addition of whey or plant-based protein powder. However, you can fortify your smoothie even more with super greens like the ones found in Orgain Organic Superfoods. 

Out of 197 reviews on the Orgain website, this greens powder has 4.6 out of 5 stars. Many customers report that it blends effortlessly in their smoothies without changing the flavor of the other ingredients. In other words, neither of the flavors (Original or Berry) is overpowering. A few of the best smoothie combinations listed in their reviews are: 

• Plant protein powder, leafy greens, matcha, coconut almond milk, and a scoop of Orgain Organic Superfoods
• Blueberries, banana, avocado, vanilla yogurt, dairy milk, and a scoop of Orgain Organic Superfoods

Its namesake comes from it being made with two proprietary blends: Orgain Organic 50 Superfoods Blend and Orgain Organic Super Veggies, Super Berries, Super Grasses & Super Foods Blend. The majority of the foods found within the lengthy list of ingredients are certified organic.

Based on our research, this greens powder also gets 5 out of 5 stars for affordability due to its cost of about $1.24 per serving. It’s the second most affordable option on our list. Only Jacked Factory Green Surge, which costs around $1.00 per serving, beats it.

Benefits of Greens Powders

There are many potential benefits to adding a greens powder to your routine. Greens powders may help support overall health by: 

• Improving your digestive tract health 
• Boosting your immune system
• Providing relief from GI discomfort
• Enhancing your energy levels
• Decreasing your risk of micronutrient deficiency 
• Increasing your intake of daily greens

Drawbacks of Greens Powders

As with anything you ingest, there could be potential side effects from greens powders. Based on the feedback from our Breaking Muscle product review team and actual buyer responses, the following are drawbacks you may notice:

• Some have the artificial sweetener sucralose in their formulation, and sucralose may lead to an upset stomach (i.e., stomach cramps and loose bowel movements). This does not dismiss the fact that some users also struggle with plant-based sweeteners such as stevia. 
• Many have directions to slowly implement their use to avoid digestive discomforts like gas and diarrhea. So, it may take a few weeks to build up a tolerance to them to reap their associated health benefits. 
• They are not usually offered in enticing flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Typically, it tastes like a mix of vegetables. Some users find the taste (and even smell) of some greens powder difficult to work past. 

What To Look For in a Greens Powder

There is no one-size-fits-all option for dietary supplements. This is especially true for greens powders due to their wide array of ingredients. Take some time to evaluate what option works best for you to be sure your purchase aligns well with the nutrition targets you hope to meet. Let’s take a look at a few things we recommend you consider before taking the greens powder leap. 

Price

Nobody wants to waste money on a greens powder that does not meet their expectations or help them achieve their health and wellness goals. That’s why affordability is taken into consideration by our product review team. This ensures that we are able to meet you where you are financially and show you that you can get a quality product that costs less.

The greens powders above range from $1.00 to $2.63 per serving, depending on the number and quality of the ingredients, third-party testing, and other factors. Keep in mind that many product websites and even Amazon offer subscription discounts.

Ingredients

Generally speaking, we have found that the more expensive a dietary supplement is per serving, the more quality ingredients it contains. This is not to say that more affordable products are made with cheap ingredients. It just means that you will typically get even more beneficial ingredients in larger quantities with more expensive greens powders.

Verify what the specific benefits are for the ingredients in the greens powder you choose. For those hoping to improve their gut health, try supplementing with a greens powder that has added probiotics and digestive enzymes. If you want to boost your immune system, pick a greens powder that is bountiful in immune-supporting antioxidants like vitamins, A, E, D, and C. (9)

Nutrient Quantity 

The amount of each nutrient varies greatly between different greens powder brands. Try not to get tripped up on marketing tactics without checking out the ingredient label. Make sure there are research-supported doses of each nutrient.

Also, dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, making marketing regulation difficult to do. If something “aids in digestion,” check the label for a clinical dose of digestive enzymes. If it “may improve gut health,” check the label for a hearty dose of probiotics and fiber.

When in doubt, verify the product has undergone third-party testing to give you peace of mind that the ingredients are free of contaminants. 

Flavors

Greens powders are not routinely available in different flavors. Usually, they have earthy tastes. However, some may have subtle flavors of berries, pineapple, and/or vanilla. Occasionally, you will find that “unflavored” options are available.

If the taste of greens powders is not becoming, you can mix them into other products. Try adding them to a high-protein zucchini bread, chip dips such as hummus, or fruit smoothies to manipulate the flavor profile and give a nutrient boost to your favorite recipes. 

Who Should Not Consume Greens Powders?

Contrary to what most assume, greens powders are not usually an adequate source of fiber. So these are not meant for people who want a high-fiber supplement.

Avoid these products if you are on a prescription medication that may have a negative interaction. Those on blood thinning medication, like warfarin, need a consistent amount of vitamin K daily to avoid bleeding disorders. Since most greens powders have proprietary blends of ingredients, it is difficult to know the true amount of vitamin K per serving.

Lastly, if you have a gastrointestinal disease that can be easily irritated or lead to mucosal lining inflammation (like Crohn’s disease), you may not tolerate greens powders well. 

Final Thoughts

Keep in mind that this is a guide to greens powders for nutrient supplementation. These products are not meant to replace a healthy diet full of whole fruits and vegetables. Everybody’s body is different. Therefore, we try our best to be inclusive and tackle the different scenarios that people face nutrition-wise: digestive issues, high blood pressure, nutrient deficiencies, weight loss, food allergies, and more. Then, we shed light on how greens powders may help with managing these conditions. 

Greens powders are an awesome way to possibly improve the health of your digestive tract, boost your immune system, relieve GI discomfort (like bloating and gas), enhance energy, and decrease your risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Since the ingredients found in greens powders vary so much from brand to brand, you can depend on our research-supported review above to navigate our favorite options and find what best supports your needs. 

Best Greens Powder: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Greens Powder Overall	Best Tasting Greens Powder	Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss	Best Greens Powder for Gut Health	Best Greens Powder for Bloating	Best Organic Greens Powder	Best Affordable Greens Powder	Best Greens Powder for Smoothies
AG1	Kaged Outlive 100	Legion Genesis	Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens	Bulletproof Greens	Onnit Shroom Tech Greens	Jacked Factory Green Surge Greens Powder	Orgain Organic Superfoods
Primary Rating: 4.3	Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.4	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 3.6	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.0
Description: Number of servings: 30 to 60 Cost per serving: Starts at $2.48 Key ingredients: Vitamin E, biotin, folate, manganese, potassium Certifications: NSF Certified for Sport	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.67 Key ingredients: Spirulina Powder, Alfalfa Grass Leaf Powder, Barley Grass Young Leaf Powder, Chlorella Powder, Acacia Fiber, Ashwagandha Root Extract Certifications: Informed Sport	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.60 Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina Whole Plant Powder, Astragalus Root Extract 5:1, Reishi Mushroom Fruit Powder, Maca Root Extract, Dong Quai Root Plant Extract  Certifications: Labdoor Tested for Sport	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.53 Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina, Organic Chlorella, Organic Acacia Fiber, Green Banana Flour, Chicory Root Certifications: Informed Choice Certified	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.67 Key ingredients: Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Vitamin B12, Organic Spinach, Ginseng Root Extract, Green Tea Extract  Certifications: No certifications listed, but the website does state that ingredients are submitted to standardized quality assurance testing	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $2.00 Key ingredients: Organic Rishi, Organic Lion’s Mane, Organic Kale, Organic Spinach, Organic Oat Grass  Certifications: Certified USDA Organic	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.00 Key ingredients: Inulin, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Organic Collards Leaf Powder, Tapioca Maltodextrin Digestive Enzyme, Grape Seed Extract  Certifications: Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) Certified	Description: Number of servings: 20 Cost per serving: $1.24 Key ingredients: Amaranth, Chia Sprout, Flax Sprout, Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Ginger Root Certifications: Certified USDA Organic
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Best Greens Powder Overall

AG1

Primary Rating:

4.3

Description:

• Number of servings: 30 to 60
• Cost per serving: Starts at $2.48
• Key ingredients: Vitamin E, biotin, folate, manganese, potassium
• Certifications: NSF Certified for Sport

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Best Tasting Greens Powder

Kaged Outlive 100

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Key ingredients: Spirulina Powder, Alfalfa Grass Leaf Powder, Barley Grass Young Leaf Powder, Chlorella Powder, Acacia Fiber, Ashwagandha Root Extract
• Certifications: Informed Sport

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Best Greens Powder for Weight Loss

Legion Genesis

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.60
• Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina Whole Plant Powder, Astragalus Root Extract 5:1, Reishi Mushroom Fruit Powder, Maca Root Extract, Dong Quai Root Plant Extract 
• Certifications: Labdoor Tested for Sport

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Best Greens Powder for Gut Health

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.53
• Key ingredients: Organic Spirulina, Organic Chlorella, Organic Acacia Fiber, Green Banana Flour, Chicory Root
• Certifications: Informed Choice Certified

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Best Greens Powder for Bloating

Bulletproof Greens

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Key ingredients: Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Vitamin B12, Organic Spinach, Ginseng Root Extract, Green Tea Extract 
• Certifications: No certifications listed, but the website does state that ingredients are submitted to standardized quality assurance testing

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Best Organic Greens Powder

Onnit Shroom Tech Greens

Primary Rating:

3.6

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Key ingredients: Organic Rishi, Organic Lion’s Mane, Organic Kale, Organic Spinach, Organic Oat Grass 
• Certifications: Certified USDA Organic

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Best Affordable Greens Powder

Jacked Factory Green Surge Greens Powder

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.00
• Key ingredients: Inulin, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Organic Collards Leaf Powder, Tapioca Maltodextrin Digestive Enzyme, Grape Seed Extract 
• Certifications: Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) Certified

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Best Greens Powder for Smoothies

Orgain Organic Superfoods

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $1.24
• Key ingredients: Amaranth, Chia Sprout, Flax Sprout, Bacillus coagulans probiotic, Ginger Root
• Certifications: Certified USDA Organic

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FAQs

Research

1. DiNicolantonio JJ, Bhat AG, OKeefe J. Effects of spirulina on weight loss and blood lipids: a review. Open Heart.  2020;7:e001003. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2018-001003
2. Morell P, Fiszman S. Revisiting the role of protein-induced sanitation and satiety. Food Hydro. 2017;68:199-210. doi: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2016.08.003
3. Quagliani D, Felt-Gunderson P. Closing america’s fiber intake gap: communication strategies from a food and fiber summit. Ameri Journ of Life Med. 2017;11(1):80-85. doi:10.1177/1559827615588079
4. Mu Y, Cong Y. Bacillus coagulans and its applications in medicine. Bene Microb. 2019;10(6):679-688. doi: 10.3920/BM2019.0016
5. Garvey S, Guice J. Digestion & enzymes. BIO-CAT. 2021:1-2. doi: 2133007
6. About Organic Labeling. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/labeling#what%20requirements. Accessed September 21, 2023. 
7. Gombart AF, Pierre A, Maggini S. A Review of micronutrients and the immune system–working in harmony to reduce the risk of infection. Nutrients. 2020;12(1):236. doi: 10.3390/nu12010236
8. Kennedy DO. B vitamins and the brain: mechanisms, dose and efficacy – A review. Nutrients. 2016;8(2):68. doi: 10.3390/nu8020068
9. Dietary Supplements for Immune Function and Infectious Disease. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Consuming%20adequate%20amounts%20of%20several,5%2C8%2D10%5D. Accessed September 28, 2023.

The post Best Greens Powder for Gut Health, Weight Loss, and More (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As a registered dietitian nutritionist with nine years of nutrition-related experience, I have been asked about vegan-friendly dietary supplements many times by clients. To make sure you get research-backed information when it comes to plant-based supplements, I want to share my recommendations with you on the best vegan protein powders available. I also want to encourage those who are not on a vegan diet to try these products out too. Following a plant-based diet is worth the hype it has been getting over the past few years.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Vegan Protein Powder

Because your Google search for the best protein powder supplement will flood your computer screen with hundreds of options, Breaking Muscle aims to consolidate those results and deliver a comprehensive go-to guide. We’re not pulling these dietary supplements out of a hat. We research them to make sure they may actually support your nutrition goals. Our team members have also tested over 75 protein powders, including more than a dozen plant-based protein powders.

During our testing and research process, we check out the following to make sure you get the best of what the market has to offer: affordability, taste, side effects, mixability, third-party testing, and ingredient formulation. Our team then uses a scoring system to deliver our top picks. We have you covered for powders that may support muscle gain, weight loss, and bodybuilding. For those who are more focused on dietary restrictions and taste, we also have options for the best-tasting, vanilla, chocolate, unflavored, and gluten-free vegan protein powders. 

Our Top Picks for the Best Vegan Protein Powder

• Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder
• Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Kaged Plantein
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
• Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Orgain Organic Protein
• Best Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein
• Best Chocolate Vegan Protein Powder: MyProtein Vegan Protein Blend
• Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding: Legion Plant+
• Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate
• Best Gluten-Free Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium Plant Based Protein

Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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A truly natural vegan protein powder, the Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder gets our vote for best overall. It’s also our pick for the best pea protein powder for several reasons. Transparent Labs prides themselves on delivering products without all of the “artificial junk” that may be present in other protein powders. You won’t have to worry about unnatural flavors, artificial coloring, GMOs, or preservatives. This product is also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance and/or celiac disease. 

We give the price per serving a 3.5 out of 5 stars since this protein powder is pretty average when it comes to affordability. The current cost per serving is $1.67, making it one of the more reasonably priced powders on our list.

Transparent Labs Organic Pea Protein gets a solid 4 out of 5 stars from our product testing team for its formulation. There are only five all-natural ingredients listed on its nutrition facts label: organic rice protein, organic pea protein isolate, natural flavor, Himalayan rock salt, and stevia.

My favorite part is that you can pronounce the ingredients, reinforcing the “all-natural” bit. Depending on which flavor you choose, the amount of calories, carbohydrates, and fats will vary slightly. The Chocolate flavor has 150 calories, seven grams of carbs, and 2.5 grams of fat. The French Vanilla flavor has 130 calories, two grams of fat, and three grams of carbs. The amount of protein per serving remains the same at a solid 24 grams. 

Since Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder contains all-natural ingredients, some users report the smell as pungent. The odor, therefore, influences the flavor and can make the taste very artificial when mixed with just plain water. This seems to be the repeating pattern for those who supplement with the French Vanilla flavor, including our product tester. She only gave it 2 out of 5 stars. However, everyone raves about the Chocolate flavor in online reviews.

Both flavors blend well, leaving no clumps behind. Users have been adding it to pancake mix, almond milk, and protein smoothie bowls without issue. We noticed a slightly gritty texture and gave solubility 3.75 stars, but it wasn’t too off-putting. Our product tester also noted that it upset her stomach a little, but other customer reviews report no side effects. Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder has 4.2 stars out of 5 on the company’s website, with 257 reviews at the time of this writing. 

Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder: Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder

4.0

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.50
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Banana Cinnamon, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Matcha, Peanut Butter, Pumpkin Spice, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai 
• Third-party tested: Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, Certified Vegan, heavy metal tested

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There is a lot of bias about finding a vegan protein powder that tastes good. Many people are under the impression that vegan products will taste like vegetables or be bland. That is far from the case for our top pick for best-tasting protein powder: Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder. 

Truvani holds one of the highest number of ratings I have seen on Amazon for protein powders. Out of more than 16,060 reviews, the product holds 4.3 out of 5 stars. Many users admit to being repeat customers and have never been disappointed with the flavor options. The most popular flavor is chocolate. I lost count of the number of users who said it has a rich, creamy chocolate taste that reminds them of a milkshake or dessert.

Many customers add this protein powder to oatmeal and protein shakes. Some interesting combos are the Chocolate flavor in banana bread, oat milk mixed with peanut butter spread and the Peanut Butter flavor, and Banana Cinnamon in pancake batter. If you want to get creative about more ways to incorporate the Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder into your daily routine, check out their website for access to free recipes and complimentary e-cookbooks. 

We are big on providing honest reviews here at Breaking Muscle, so I want to admit that we give the price per serving 1 out of 5 stars. It is admittedly one of the more expensive protein powders we have reviewed. For comparison, Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder is $2.50 a serving, while Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate is only 73 cents per serving. However, there is a hassle-free 30-day “Love Our Product” guarantee that enables you to get a refund if you are not totally satisfied. 

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Muscle Gain: Kaged Plantein

Kaged Plantein

4.6

• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 150
• Protein per serving: 25 grams 
• Flavors: Banana Bread, Cinnamon Roll 
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport, Micropure Quality Guarantee

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The claim that you can not build muscle while eating plant-based is simply not true. As a registered dietitian, I have worked with several vegetarian and vegan clients who are very physically active and gain muscle with ease. This is achievable with vegan protein powders like Kaged Plantein, which delivers 25 grams of pea protein per serving, along with 4.5 grams of high-quality branched-chain amino acids and all nine essential amino acids. 

There are three branched-chain amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAAS have been positively linked to decreasing recovery time after working out by mitigating muscle soreness and aiding in the repair of muscle tissue damage that routinely occurs during exercise. Leucine specifically has come under the microscope because of its potential effects on achieving desired weight goals and improving lean body mass composition (1)(2)

Our product testing team gave Kaged Plantein 5 out of 5 stars for its formulation. It has 150 calories, which is slightly higher than other vegan protein powders we’ve tried but still a standard amount. It also has two grams of carbs and four grams of fat.

Our tester appreciated that this low-carb vegan protein powder offers atypical flavor options like Banana Bread and Cinnamon Roll instead of the usual chocolate or vanilla offerings. These flavor options make mixing Kaged Plantein into baked goods all the more appealing. Who doesn’t want high-protein cinnamon rolls for breakfast?

Our team and online reviewers also agree that this product blends well. We had no complaints about its dissolvability when we mixed it in a shaker bottle, so we gave it 5 out of 5 stars for solubility.

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake

Ritual Essential Protein Powder

4.4

• Protein type: Pea protein
• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.66
• Calories per serving: 115 
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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If you are on the hunt for a vegan protein powder that has a shockingly good consistency when blended, tastes great, and is packed with nutrients — look no further. Ritual Daily Shake 18+ scored high nearly across the board with our product review team members. They enjoyed the flavor, consistency, and how well it dissolved. However, great taste and solubility aside, the nutrients in this protein powder are what make it our top choice as the best vegan protein powder for women. 

This low-fat and low-carb powder offers 20 grams of protein, 150 milligrams of choline, three grams of iron, and 493 milligrams of l-methionine per serving. Choline is a nutrient that is particularly important for the proper uptake of omega-3 fatty acids. (3) Omega-3 is potentially responsible for improving fertility and pregnancy health, decreasing cognitive concerns like dementia (which are more common for women than men), and improving uterine blood flow. (4)(5)

The addition of methionine is useful due to its essential role in micronutrient pathways — in other words, it plays a huge role in the way we metabolize vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate. All three of these nutrients are particularly important for women of childbearing age. They assist in converting food to energy, making healthy red blood cells, and developing the nervous system during pregnancy. (6)

To reap the full nutrient benefits of Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake, you can supplement with it in many ways. Most reviewers report ease of mixability in water, but you can definitely add this to other ingredients to boost your protein intake more. One of my favorite, most refreshing ways to make a high-protein snack is popsicles. Simply mix the vegan protein powder with pureed fruit, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, then throw it into pre-made popsicle molds and leave it to chill in the freezer. 

Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder: Orgain Organic Protein

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

3.5

• Protein type: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seed protein
• Number of servings: 10 to 20
• Cost: $1.23 to $1.69 per serving
• Calories per serving: 140 to 190
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Coconut, Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies ‘n Cream, Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Iced Coffee, Natural Unsweetened, Peanut Butter, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Bean
• Third-party tested: No

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Trivia time. Did you know that if a dietary supplement receives the USDA Organic certification, it means that it is also non-GMO? Obtaining this certification is no small feat, and manufacturers have to meet very specific requirements. This third-party verification is also a good way to know you can trust a brand when it comes to ingredient quality. Third-party testing is optional and shows that a company cares. 

Orgain Organic Protein is able to label their vegan protein powder as “organic” because it contains a minimum of 95 percent organic ingredients. (7) Its protein blend comprises organic pea, organic brown rice, and organic chia seed. It also has 10 other certified organic ingredients listed on its nutrition label, including organic acacia, organic rosemary extract, and organic high oleic sunflower oil. 

On the back of the container, you will notice a label that says “Certified Plant Based.” This means that Orgain Organic Protein has also undergone extra steps to ensure it is free of meat, eggs, and dairy products. 

Of 4,812 reviews at the time of this writing, this organic plant-based protein powder holds a 4.5 out of five-star rating on their website. It is difficult to say which flavor option is the most favorite among their online customers, as several reviewers state that you can’t go wrong with any of them. Many people report mixing it into water, almond milk, soy milk, protein shakes, smoothies, and overnight oats.

The few users who rated this protein powder low online report artificial sweetness as the main reason, presumably due to misconceptions about the xanthan gum it contains. However, xanthan gum does not contribute to the product’s sweetness. It is a food additive used to stabilize the protein powder. The powder uses stevia extract as a natural sweetener. 

RELATED: Best Organic Protein Powder

Best Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

3.9

• Protein type: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, watermelon seed protein 
• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.25
• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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The Onnit Plant-based Powder is our top pick for the best vanilla vegan protein powder. It scored highly with our product review team, and users online seem to agree.

This product holds 4.3 out of 5 stars for quality and 4.1 out of 5 stars for value on the Onnit website. Full disclosure, our team gave the price per serving rating 1 out of 5 stars. At around $2.25 per serving, it’s one of the most expensive plant-based protein powders we tried. Other products like Transparent Labs Rice & Pea Protein Powder cost less than $2.200 per serving.

However, we gave it a 4 out of 5 for solubility. Reviewers who rate this product lowly on the Onnit site attribute their low scoring to its chalky texture once mixed. Our review team members noted a faint gritty mouthfeel as well but reported that it blended well overall. 

Our Breaking Muscle team and Onnit customers have a positive consensus on the side effects of this vegan protein powder. Most agree that there is no bloating or lingering gut discomfort that is sometimes reported with high-protein supplements.

One of my favorite recipe bases came from an Onnit Plant-based Protein powder reviewer. For a peanut butter cup-flavored drink, blend a scoop of vanilla-flavored protein powder with a scoop of peanut butter, a few ice cubes, and chocolate almond milk. 

Best Chocolate Vegan Protein Powder: Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

3.9

• Protein type: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, watermelon seed protein 
• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.25
• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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Fellow chocolate lovers, we have not forgotten about you. And no, you are not having deja vu. Onnit Plant-based Protein powder is so tasty that it claims the spot for not only the best vanilla protein powder but also the best chocolate vegan protein powder. 

For only 110 calories, this protein powder packs a punch with 21 grams of protein for every 33.8-gram scoop. It is also low in carbs and fat, with three grams and 1.5 grams, respectively. The protein amount comes from a combination of pea protein concentrate, pumpkin seed protein powder, sunflower seed protein powder, and watermelon seed protein powder. At this time, it has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Onnit’s website. 

Customers report really loving the chocolate flavoring Onnit Plant-based Protein offers. They claim it is not overly sweet and has a rich taste. Our product tester also tried the Mexican Chocolate flavor and noted that it really did taste more unique than other chocolate protein powders she’s tried. She even said that it tasted like a dairy-free chocolate milkshake and rated it 4 out of 5 stars.

To nutritionally fortify your favorite desserts, try adding a scoop of this chocolate vegan protein powder to no-bake cheesecake bites, oatmeal protein balls, dark chocolate chip cookies, or frozen yogurt strawberry bark. 

RELATED: Best Supplements for Weight Loss

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding: Legion Plant+

Legion Plant+

3.9

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.50
• Calories per serving: 140
• Protein per serving: 24 grams 
• Flavors: Apple Pie, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Cappuccino 
• Third-party tested: Labdoor Tested for Sport

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Bodybuilding with vegan protein powder? If you nourish your body appropriately, plant-based proteins can absolutely assist you in bulking muscle mass and increasing strength. From a hearty dose of electrolytes to a high protein content, the Legion Plant+ vegan protein powder is our top choice for a bodybuilding supplement. 

To prevent dehydration and muscle cramps, Legion Plant+ offers 590 milligrams of sodium and 225 milligrams of calcium. Both of these minerals can be classified as electrolytes, and research supports their use during and after workouts to help maintain a good fluid status.

Scientists have found that our bodies have a greater response to self-regulating fluid during high-volume, moderate-intensity exercises (like bulking with bodybuilding) when compared to low-volume, high-intensity training. (8) This means that your body is more likely to use the electrolytes found in Legion Plant+ in an appropriate way to keep you hydrated when training at a moderate intensity. 

Of 1,162 verified purchase reviews, Legion’s vegan protein powder has 4.42 out of 5 stars. Customers especially enjoy the array of flavors, which they find unique and tasty.

Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder: Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate

Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate

3.8

• Number of servings: 33
• Cost per serving: $0.73
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Unflavored 
• Third-party tested: ISO 17025 Lab Tested Certified

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You would be surprised at how often I am asked for unflavored protein powder recommendations. Plant-based protein powders are notorious for their plant-like flavored aftertastes. Many companies add sweeteners to mask the protein’s flavor, but then users report that these products taste either too sweet or too artificial. To keep things simple, Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate consists of only one ingredient: soy protein isolate. 

I have read thousands of nutrition facts labels by now, and Bulk Supplement’s vegan protein powder is one of the most interesting ones I have looked over. In one 30-gram serving, you will get 27 grams of protein, 110 calories, zero grams of fat, zero grams of carbohydrates, and 220 milligrams of sodium — all from isolated soy protein.

This specific type of protein introduces you to varying amounts of 18 amino acids that may assist in boosting your immune system, regulating your metabolism, increasing your muscle strength, building muscle, and keeping you literally standing upright. 

There are not a lot of reviews on their website online. However, based on the 58 ratings that are available, this protein powder is 4.7 out of 5 stars. The few reviewers who did not give a perfect 5 out of 5 reported that the flavor was too bitter for their liking. This is likely due to it having no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

That said, several people stated that routine supplementation helped to improve their digestive tract health by decreasing bloating, promoting more regular bowel movements, and improving muscle mass. 

RELATED: Best Collagen Supplements

Best Gluten-Free Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein

Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein

4.2

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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Following a gluten-free diet does not mean you can no longer enjoy food. In fact, there are plenty of gluten-free nutrition products that taste great and nourish your body well. It was easy to choose our top pick for the best gluten-free vegan protein powder to help you live a gluten-free lifestyle: Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein. 

Vega is known for delivering third-party tested, high-protein, very nutritious plant-powered protein powders. They have set the bar high with their gluten-free, non-GMO vegan protein powder. Available in five distinct flavors, reviewers are pleased with how well this vegan protein powder blends into baked goods, breakfast cereals, and on-the-go smoothies. Per their website, they meet the expectations of over 95 percent of their verified purchasers. 

Many users report that they have bought other plant-based, gluten-free protein powders before but feel like those products fall flat compared to Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein. Like most plant-based protein powders, Vega also manufactures theirs with stevia. Users are pleased with this product not having a strong artificially sweet taste and not tasting like a plant by-product.

Customers report purchasing the mocha and vanilla flavor options. However, all of the flavor options available are reported to blend excellently into coffee, gluten-free bread products, and yogurt-based protein bowls. 

RELATED: Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain

Benefits of Vegan Protein Powder 

Plant-based protein powder is packed with nutrients that are beneficial to your overall health and well-being. A few of the specific benefits vegan protein powder has to offer are: 

• Potential protective factors from major illnesses, such as heart disease, anemia, diabetes, poor bone density, and kidney disease 
• The ability to help you increase overall protein intake, which is especially useful for sports nutrition 
• Improved muscle mass and strength 
• Delayed onset of fatigue post-workout 
• Enhanced performance from better endurance 

Potential Side Effects of Vegan Protein Powder

The most common side effect of any protein powder is gastrointestinal (GI) tract discomfort. This can come in the form of gas, bloating, loose bowel movements, or stomach cramps.

Because all dietary supplements come with some amount of risk for upsetting the GI tract, check the label for any ingredients that you know upset your belly. This is especially important if you have any food intolerances or food allergies.

I generally recommend starting any new protein powder off in a small amount. For example, try supplementing with half of the recommended amount for the first two weeks and monitor your symptoms to see if you have any adverse effects. 

How Much Vegan Protein Powder Should You Take Every Day?

Protein powders should serve as a supplemental form of nutrition to your daily intake of whole-food protein sources and are not recommended as routine meal replacements. Try not to exceed more than a third of your daily protein needs in the form of powder supplementation. If your protein goal is 100 grams a day and you eat three times daily, you can incorporate ~33 grams of powder-derived protein into your diet a day.

Of course, there will always be extenuating circumstances, such as medical concerns like malabsorption, that will require a large volume of protein powder supplementation. If you are ever concerned about the amount of protein powder you are supplementing with, get with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) to help you decipher what is appropriate for your individualized needs to ensure you are getting enough protein.

What To Look For in a Vegan Protein Powder

There are several things to consider when looking into vegan protein powder. Unlike whey protein powder, plant-based protein powders will have varied amounts of macronutrients — particularly carbohydrates — depending on the brand you decide to roll with. They tend to also be pricier than animal-based protein powders, so it’s important to take cost into consideration. Furthermore, third-party testing and certifications are some of the best ways to verify the product’s ingredient quality and integrity.

Macronutrients 

There are only three macronutrients — carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Before you determine the macro breakdown of your plant-based protein powder, it’s important to calculate how much of each nutrient to consume in a day.

To do this, break it down into numbers. Aim to get 10 to 35 percent of your total daily calories from protein, 45 to 65 percent from carbohydrates, and 20 to 35 percent from fat.

Since the amount of each macronutrient you need daily is very individualized, I recommend determining your daily calorie goal and calculating percentages for each macro from there. The macro breakdown of your protein powder will then depend on several factors:

• Any medical conditions. For example, those who have chronic kidney disease (and are not on dialysis) will want to aim for a lower protein content. However, those with any kind of wound or individuals healing from surgery will need an increased protein intake.
• Your level of exercise. You will need to adjust your protein and carbohydrate intake to account for how vigorous your workout is. The harder and longer you exercise, the more protein you need to heal those muscle micro-tears. You’ll also need more carbohydrates to restore muscle glycogen (the stored form of energy in the body). 
• Overall nutrition goals. The amount of protein you should consume daily will also depend on whether you want to lose body weight, gain muscle mass, or improve your post-workout recovery. 

Based on our experience of testing a dozen vegan protein powders, they have between 110 and 150 calories, up to three grams of fat, 20 to 27 grams of protein, and up to 10 grams of carbs per serving. By following the considerations above, you can narrow down your choice to a product with an ideal macro profile for you. 

Protein Source

Vegan protein powders should not have whey or casein protein derivatives. However, since they are plant-based, there is a wider array of protein sources when compared to animal-based protein powders.

Whether your product’s protein source is pumpkin seed, green peas, yellow peas, legumes, flaxseed, rice, or soy, the key thing to pay attention to is the amount of protein found in that powder. Since plant-based protein sources are less bioavailable for absorption than animal-derived protein, pick a vegan protein powder with at least 20 grams of protein per serving. This should offer the best support for your daily protein intake goals.

Other Ingredients

Some of us are not shopping for protein powders for the sake of increasing protein intake. In fact, many ingredients can make protein powders special.

For example, those with high cholesterol would benefit from a protein powder with a higher fiber content per serving from ingredients like psyllium husk or monk fruit. Those who may want to lower blood pressure should look for ingredients that contain potassium, such as flaxseed or pumpkin seeds. Products with added digestive enzymes and probiotics are excellent options for improving nutrient digestion and absorption. For immune system support, confirm your supplement choice meets your recommended daily amounts of vitamin C and vitamin E. 

Check out the back of the bottle for ingredients other than the source of protein (i.e., gluten, allergens, or artificial sweeteners) if you have a particular health goal in mind. I always encourage clients to individualize their dietary supplements (especially protein powder) to align with their nutrition and wellness goals. 

Flavors

I routinely have different flavor options of protein powder on hand because of the way I use protein powder. Self-fortifying products like baked goods, overnight oatmeal, whole grain cereal, and even iced coffee are different ways to incorporate protein powder into your daily routine if you get tired of mixing it with water.

Try and align the vegan protein powder flavor with what you want to add it to. This will ensure that the flavor profiles mesh well. For example, adding an unflavored option to cereal, a banana-flavored option to dark chocolate chip muffins, or a vanilla-flavored option to coffee will all work well. If you find the repetitive use of protein powder boring, I encourage you to blend it into a different product to increase that particular food or beverage’s nutrient profile to deliver greater health benefits. 

Certifications and Third-Party Verification

When it comes to dietary supplements, you will need to be somewhat of a detective. Since they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), supplement certifications and third-party verification are super important. These extra testing parameters can provide you with peace of mind regarding your product’s ingredient quality and purity.

Third-party testing certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, USDA Certified Organic, and Informed Sport are all excellent ones to look for on your protein powder container. 

Final Thoughts

Vegan protein powders are here to benefit both the vegan and non-vegan populations. The push for plant-based nutrient intake has been ramping up for the past few years — and with good reason. Plant-based eating is strongly correlated with potentially decreasing the risk of developing chronic illness, recuperating quicker after exercise, improving muscle strength, and enhancing sports performance. 

If you do not have the time to personally test multiple vegan protein powders, use this review of the best vegan protein powders as a reliable, research-based guide. Our selection process is thorough, as we analyze cost, formulation, flavor, texture, mixability, side effects, and customer service satisfaction. We do not pluck random protein powders off the shelf. The vegan protein powders above made the cut for two main reasons: quality and researched ability to support a variety of nutrition goals. 

Best Vegan Protein Powder: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Vegan Protein Powder Overall	Best Tasting Vegan Protein Powder	Best Vegan Protein Powder for Muscle Gain	Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women	Best Organic Vegan Protein Powder	Best Vanilla Vegan Protein Powder	Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding	Best Unflavored Vegan Protein Powder	Best Gluten-Free Vegan Protein Powder
Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein	Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder	Kaged Plantein	Ritual Essential Protein Powder	Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder	Onnit Plant-Based Protein	Legion Plant+	Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate	Vega Sport Protein
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.6	Primary Rating: 4.4	Primary Rating: 3.5	Primary Rating: 3.9	Primary Rating: 3.9	Primary Rating: 3.8	Primary Rating: 4.2
Description: Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein Number of servings: 30 Cost: $1.67 per serving Calories per serving: 130 to 150 Protein per serving: 24 grams Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla  Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs	Description: Number of servings: 20 Cost per serving: $2.50 Calories per serving: 130 Protein per serving: 20 grams  Flavors: Banana Cinnamon, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Matcha, Peanut Butter, Pumpkin Spice, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai  Third-party tested: Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, Certified Vegan, heavy metal tested	Description: Number of servings: 15 Cost per serving: $2.00 Calories per serving: 150 Protein per serving: 25 grams  Flavors: Banana Bread, Cinnamon Roll  Third-party tested: Informed Sport, Micropure Quality Guarantee	Description: Number of servings: 15 Cost per serving: $2.66 Calories per serving: 115  Protein per serving: 20 grams  Flavors: Vanilla Third-party tested: Yes	Description: Protein type: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seed protein Number of servings: 10 to 20 Cost: $1.23 to $1.69 per serving Calories per serving: 140 to 190 Protein per serving: 21 grams Flavors: Chocolate Coconut, Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies ‘n Cream, Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Iced Coffee, Natural Unsweetened, Peanut Butter, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Bean Third-party tested: No	Description: Protein type: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, watermelon seed protein  Number of servings: 20 Cost per serving: $2.25 Calories per serving: 100 Protein per serving: 20 grams Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla Third-party tested: Yes	Description: Number of servings: 20 Cost per serving: $2.50 Calories per serving: 140 Protein per serving: 24 grams  Flavors: Apple Pie, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Cappuccino  Third-party tested: Labdoor Tested for Sport	Description: Number of servings: 33 Cost per serving: $0.73 Calories per serving: 110 Protein per serving: 27 grams  Flavors: Unflavored  Third-party tested: ISO 17025 Lab Tested Certified	Description: Number of servings: 12 to 20 Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving Calories per serving: 170 to 180 Protein per serving: 30 grams Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport
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Best Vegan Protein Powder
Overall

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Best Tasting
Vegan
Protein Powder

Truvani Organic Vegan Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.50
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Banana Cinnamon, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Matcha, Peanut Butter, Pumpkin Spice, Unflavored, Vanilla, Vanilla Chai 
• Third-party tested: Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, Certified Vegan, heavy metal tested

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Best Vegan Protein Powder
for Muscle Gain

Kaged Plantein

Primary Rating:

4.6

Description:

• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 150
• Protein per serving: 25 grams 
• Flavors: Banana Bread, Cinnamon Roll 
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport, Micropure Quality Guarantee

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Best Vegan
Protein Powder for Women

Ritual Essential Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

4.4

Description:

• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.66
• Calories per serving: 115 
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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Best Organic
Vegan
Protein Powder

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

3.5

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seed protein
• Number of servings: 10 to 20
• Cost: $1.23 to $1.69 per serving
• Calories per serving: 140 to 190
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Coconut, Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies ‘n Cream, Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Iced Coffee, Natural Unsweetened, Peanut Butter, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Bean
• Third-party tested: No

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Best Vanilla
Vegan
Protein Powder

Onnit Plant-Based Protein

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, watermelon seed protein 
• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.25
• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Yes

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Best Vegan Protein Powder for Bodybuilding

Legion Plant+

Primary Rating:

3.9

Description:

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.50
• Calories per serving: 140
• Protein per serving: 24 grams 
• Flavors: Apple Pie, Cinnamon Cereal, Dutch Chocolate, French Vanilla, Mocha Cappuccino 
• Third-party tested: Labdoor Tested for Sport

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Best Unflavored
Vegan
Protein Powder

Bulk Supplements Soy Protein Isolate

Primary Rating:

3.8

Description:

• Number of servings: 33
• Cost per serving: $0.73
• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Unflavored 
• Third-party tested: ISO 17025 Lab Tested Certified

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Best Gluten-Free
Vegan
Protein Powder

Vega Sport Protein

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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FAQs

Research 

1. VanDusseldorp TA, Escobar KA, Johnson KE, et al. Effect of branched-chain amino acid supplementation on recovery following acute eccentric exercise. Nutrients. 2018;10(10):1389. doi: 10.3390/nu10101389
2. Komar B, Schwingshackl L, Hoffmann G. Effects of leucine-rich protein supplements on anthropometric parameter and muscle strength in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Nutr Health Aging. 2015;19:437–446. doi: 0.1007/s12603-014-0559-4
3. Korsmo HW, Jiang X, Caudill MA. Choline: exploring the growing science on its benefits for moms and babies. Nutrients. 2019;11(8):1823. doi: 10.3390/nu11081823
4. Ammann EM, Pottala JV, Robinson JG. Ertyrhocyte omega-3 fatty acids are inversely associated with incident dementia: Secondary analyses of longitudinal data from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS). PLEFA. 2017;121:68-75. Doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2017.06.006
5. Lazzarin N, Vaquero E, Exacoustos, et al. Low-dose aspirin and omega-3 fatty acids improve uterine artery blood flow velocity in women with recurrent miscarriage due to impaired uterine perfusion. Fert and Ster. 2009;92(1):296-300. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.05.045
6. redruello-requejo m, carretero-krug a, rodríguez-alonso p, et al. dietary intake adequacy and food sources of nutrients involved in the methionine-methylation cycle in women of childbearing age from the anibes spanish population. Nutrients. 2021;13(9):2958. doi: 10.3390/nu13092958
7. About Organic Labeling. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic/labeling#what%20requirements. Accessed September 21, 2023. 
8. Boone CH, Hoffman JR, Gonzalez AM, et al. Changes in plasma aldosterone and electrolytes following high-volume and high-intensity resistance exercise protocols in trained men. Journ of Stren and Cond Res. 2016;30(7):1917-1923. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000001276

The post Best Vegan Protein Powder of 2024 for Muscle Gain, Weight Loss, and More appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

In this review, we will investigate the ingredients and health-promoting benefits behind our top picks for the best pea protein powder supplements. Whether you are hoping to increase muscle mass, manage your weight, boost your immune system, or decrease post-workout recovery time, we are sure to have a pea protein powder for you.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Pea Protein Powder

Here at Breaking Muscle, our mission is to help you achieve your goals by recommending the best protein powders and other supplements that will reinforce all the hard work you do in the gym. Not only have we personally tested over 75 protein powders (including at least a dozen pea protein powders), we thoroughly researched each product below so that you can choose the best pea protein powder for you. 

We also reviewed each brand’s macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein content), total calories per serving, affordability, flavor profiles, and third-party verification so you can save time and money while making an informed decision. 

Our Top Picks for the Best Pea Protein Powders

• Best Pea Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein
• Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Pea Protein
• Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Ladder Plant Protein
• Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium
• Best Pea and Rice Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein
• Best Organic Pea Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

Best Pea Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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We don’t hand out the title for best overall to just any pea protein powder supplement. Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein powder sits atop our list because it’s third-party tested to ensure it’s free of toxic ingredients, offers an impressive 24 grams of protein per serving, and has excellent solubility.

This organic yellow pea and rice protein powder has 2,060 milligrams of naturally occurring flavor, 310 milligrams of Himalayan rock salt, and 270 milligrams of organic stevia. Himalayan rock salt is where most of the sodium from this product derives from. There are 260 milligrams of sodium per scoop, which is high compared to other pea protein powders that have closer to 110 milligrams of sodium per scoop. However, most healthy individuals can safely consume up to 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. Plus, Himalayan rock salt functions as a natural preservative and may offer some other benefits as well.

The pink color that Himalayan rock salt is known for comes from a combination of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. (1) These minerals function as electrolytes, which can help prevent and treat dehydration. Magnesium helps to control whole-body inflammation after working out, delay the onset of fatigue during exercise, and possibly increase muscle mass. (2) 

Transparent Labs uses stevia as a naturally occurring, plant-based sweetener. Researchers have found that stevia can help facilitate weight loss and assist with the management of high blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and can help improve heart contraction and blood flow. (3)

We had a Breaking Muscle staff member try the French Vanilla flavor, and she only rated it 2 stars out of 5. She found that it tasted artificial despite containing only natural ingredients, which she thinks may be due to the stevia. 

However, reviewers on the Transparent Labs website report that they keep coming back to this pea protein powder because of its consistency in ingredient quality. They are particularly pleased with the taste, especially the chocolate-flavored option.

Regarding solubility, our product tester gave it 3.75 stars out of 5 because it foamed a lot. She also noted that it had a gritty texture, though it wasn’t too off-putting.

Again, other users’ experiences seem to vary. When it comes to mixability, customer reviews on the website say that it blends perfectly in both beverages and foods like pancake mix. 

We did give the Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein 4 out of 5 stars for its overall macronutrient profile and high marks for its clean ingredients and label transparency. If you’re looking for a pea protein powder that doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, tells you exactly what’s in its formula, and delivers a high amount of protein per serving, this is one worth trying.

RELATED: Best Organic Protein Powder

Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Pea Protein

Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder

4.2

• Number of servings: 76
• Cost per serving: $0.76
• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals

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For a mere 120 calories, you will get 27 grams of protein for only two grams of carbs and 0.5 grams of total fat per serving of Naked Pea Protein, which is why it wins our award for the best pea protein powder for weight loss. To sweeten the deal, Naked Pea Protein also uses no artificial ingredients. Rest assured that this pea protein powder is here to help you attain the level of fitness you seek. 

Yellow pea protein isolate — the only ingredient listed on the supplement label — has been strongly correlated with reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These three disease states are the major contributors for developing chronic kidney disease. (5) As a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, I heavily encourage plant-based eating as a way to preserve remaining kidney function. 

The nutrition facts label provides insight into the wide array of specific nutrients you will get nine essential amino acids, three high-quality branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and seven non-essential amino acids. Supplementing with branched-chain amino acids has been identified as a novel way to increase the likelihood of losing weight. This is because they may improve the way our bodies absorb carbohydrates and metabolize them effectively for weight loss. (6)

A serving size of Naked Pea Protein will provide you with 16 percent of your recommended daily value of iron. Having adequate stores of iron is associated with controlling inflammation throughout your body, which can help reduce obesity. (7) Iron that comes from plant-based sources versus whey or other animal-based sources is referred to as “non-heme iron” and is not as easily absorbed as animal-based iron (or “heme iron”). However, pairing iron with vitamin C can help increase iron absorption. 

To get the most from your Naked Pea Protein, consider pairing your protein shake with a low-calorie, nutrient-dense fruit or vegetable snack on the side: oranges, mangoes, red bell peppers, broccoli, legumes, kiwi, spinach, strawberries, or tomatoes.

Many users report that this powder doesn’t have a lingering metal after-taste like other protein powders. It blends really well without any leftover clumpy residue.

A Breaking Muscle product tester also gives Naked Pea Protein high marks for solubility, rating it 4 out of 5 stars. She especially likes mixing it with oats because it gives them a rich, creamy texture.

However, she only gave it 2.5 out of 5 stars for taste. It is unflavored, so scoring low in this category isn’t surprising. She recommends starting with one scoop instead of the recommended two scoops if you aren’t used to pea protein powders; otherwise, you’ll need to use some sweeteners or add it to another flavored beverage to make it more palatable.

RELATED: Best Creatine Supplements

Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Ladder Plant Protein

Ladder Plant Protein

4.0

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport

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Co-founders LeBron James and Arnold Schwarzenegger teamed up to create the Ladder brand, and their vegan amino acid blend can help support your performance and build lean muscle mass. In fact, research shows that supplementing with pea-based protein powder is just as effective as the best whey protein powder for muscle mass growth. (8)

With every scoop of Ladder Plant-Based Protein, you will get 1,000 milligrams of the amino acids l-leucine, l-methionine, l-isoleucine, and l-valine. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine are classified as high-quality branched-chain amino acids. These BCAAs, especially leucine, may play a significant role in protein synthesis and increasing lean muscle mass. (9)

This product has a whopping 530 milligrams of sodium per serving. A good rule of thumb is to choose products with less than 200 milligrams of sodium per serving to promote heart health. Sodium is also an electrolyte and therefore needed for post-workout recovery. However, Ladder Plant-Based Protein may not be ideal for those limiting sodium intake and/or those who have a heart condition. (10)

On the Ladder website, users report some issues with the solubility of this product. Many report that using shaker bottles is not enough to completely dissolve the powder. There are also mixed reviews about the flavor.

However, Breaking Muscle Reviews Editor Amanda Dvorak uses Ladder’s plant-based protein regularly and enjoys it. She gives Ladder Plant-Based Protein 4 out 5 stars for taste and texture and 4.5 out of 5 stars for solubility.

“I usually opt for whey protein, but I like having some plant-based protein powder in my pantry because too much dairy can sometimes make my rosacea and other skin issues worse,” she says. “It’s hard for me to find a plant-based protein powder that I truly like, but I honestly love Ladder. I get a slight earthy taste with the Vanilla flavor, but it’s not as bad as other vegan protein powders I’ve had. It’s also one of the smoothest plant-based protein powders I’ve ever tried. It’s not super grainy and leaves virtually no clumps behind.”

RELATED: Best Protein Powder for Muscle Gain

Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium

Vega Sport Protein

4.2

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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Ironically, our favorite protein powder for vanilla flavor is the supplement that offers the most flavors in this review: Vega Sport Premium. Users seem to be happy with all flavors offered, but most reviewers who bought the vanilla flavor harp on how excellently it blended into smoothies with berries without leaving a gritty texture. 

Speaking of good, Vega Sport Premium plants a tree for every order they receive. If that doesn’t make you want to read more about them, allow me to introduce you to tart cherries. 

Tart cherries have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help prevent major chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. For post-workout, tart cherries may allow for a faster recovery time in returning to your peak form and lead to less muscle fatigue. (11)

The combination of protein sources used in Vega Sport Premium is special. In addition to the humble pea, you will also get pumpkin seeds, alfalfa, and organic sunflower seeds. This protein blend leads to you getting an awesome 30 percent of your recommended daily amount of iron in every 41-gram scoop of Vega Sport Premium. Iron is an essential mineral, meaning that we can only get it from dietary means. It is important to ensure we get enough of it every day to prevent anemia, support the nervous system, and help with metabolic processes. (12)

The Vega Sport Premium website recommends that you mix this product with cold water or a non-dairy beverage, such as plant-based milk, for best results. However, adding this protein powder to a smoothie or a favorite recipe is also recommended. The brand’s website even offers suggestions for creative ways to use their yummy pea-based protein powder, such as pumpkin spice protein pancakes. 

Best Pea and Rice Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein uses a 2:1 protein ratio of 20,000 milligrams of organic rice protein and 9,411 milligrams of organic pea protein isolate. 

Research studies have demonstrated that the use of rice protein is appropriate after resistance exercise due to its ability to improve overall body composition and increase sports performance. Studies have also found that there are no major differences worth noting between the participants who received whey versus brown rice protein. This means that this form of protein can help facilitate muscle mass build while simultaneously improving endurance. (13)

Pea protein is often mechanically split during manufacturing, whereas soy-based and whey-based proteins have to be chemically split. This translates into the pea protein source remaining intact and therefore being more naturally nutrient-dense, particularly when it comes to soluble fiber. This form of fiber is really beneficial for preventing heart damage and promoting the health of your digestive system. (5)

Tip: Many reviewers report that Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein powder mixes very easily with oatmeal and blends well into smoothies. According to reviews, all flavors offered are delicious and blend well without clumping. Users appreciate that this product is cruelty-free and uses clean ingredients that can be incorporated into a variety of things: water, soy milk, banana bread, and smoothies.

Best Organic Pea Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

4.5

• Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag 
• Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21
• Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored
• Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing

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If you are looking for an organic-certified pea protein, Gainful Vegan Protein Powder is our top pick. You have the choice of organic brown rice protein, organic pea protein, or a combination of both of these plant-based protein sources.

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder is unlike any other supplement we have reviewed. With most protein powders, you simply add them to your online (or literal) shopping cart, and off you go. However, to add this product to your online cart, you will be prompted to take a quiz that analyzes nutrient-influencing factors that are specific to you. 

They have a team of registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) on board to expertly tailor the Gainful Vegan Protein Powder to your body type and fitness goals. Your nutrition goals, the type of exercise you routinely do, your age, height, weight, goal body weight, top three health goals, dietary restrictions, and dietary patterns are all evaluated to make a protein supplement that best supports you. To make things effortless, you will receive 14 to 28 pre-packaged servings so that you can add them to the beverage or food option of your choice with ease. 

This supplement checks a lot of boxes and should be easier for you to absorb and digest when compared to other products on the market. This is due to Gainful using ingredients that are gluten-free, soy-free, vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, and free of most major allergens.

To increase the provided health benefits and decrease gut sensitivity, this pea protein powder is also naturally sweetened with organic monk fruit and organic stevia leaf extract.

We haven’t tried the vegan protein option from Gainful, but one of our product testers has received a custom blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, and casein protein powder. She rated the company 5 out of 5 stars for customer service and 5 out of 5 stars for its overall formula due to how personalized it is to her unique needs (she chose recovery and satiety as her main concerns).

It is sure to fit into your lifestyle because it is made for all forms of exercise, whether you do CrossFit, run, practice yoga, dance, or engage in any other kind of physical activity. 

RELATED: Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss, Muscle Gain, Diabetes, and More

Benefits of Pea Protein Powder 

Protein is a fundamental macronutrient that plays an extremely important role in your diet. Pea protein powder will provide you with many health benefits. Most notable are: 

• Promote weight gain via increased muscle mass or weight loss via decreased fat mass (5)
• Potentially decrease your risk of chronic illness development (5)
• Increase post-workout recovery time and strength (8)
• Improve overall muscle mass (8)(18)

How Much Pea Protein Powder Should You Have Per Day?

When determining the amount of pea protein powder you should have per day, keep in mind that it should supplement your overall daily protein intake goal. You should still prioritize whole-food sources instead of replacing them.

Generally speaking, protein should compose 10 to 35 percent of your daily intake of calories. However, the amount of protein you need per day is based on several factors, including age, sex, level of physical activity, and your fitness goals. (14)

If you are interested in a quick calculation, open the calculator app on your phone. To keep things simple and determine your recommended dietary allowance of protein, multiply 0.8 grams of protein by your weight in kilograms. If you are an avid exerciser, want to add muscle mass, or are even just starting out at the gym, you will need more protein to help with the recovery of muscle micro-tears, improve mass, and increase muscle strength. You may need to increase this number to anywhere from 1.0 to 1.6.

Essential amino acids are the fundamental building blocks for protein that we have to get from dietary sources. Pea protein is almost a complete protein source. However, it is not an adequate source of the essential amino acid methionine. That being said, you can have pea protein powder every day, but it is very important that it is not your only source of protein throughout the day. To follow a more plant-based diet, consider pairing your pea protein powder with good sources of methionine, such as soybeans, nuts, navy beans, wild rice, or kidney beans. 

What To Consider When Buying Pea Protein Powder

Deciding to add dietary supplements to your diet can open you up to a world of benefits. However, in order to optimize your health, it is vital to choose a product that contains ingredients (and specific ingredients in appropriate amounts) that contribute to accomplishing your goals. Try to avoid picking just any powder because it has pea protein in it. Choose a pea protein powder that is designed with your health and fitness goals in mind. To make things easier on you, let the guide below be a resource for what to look for in a pea protein supplement. 

Macronutrients

Knowing the recommended amount of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) you should consume in a day goes hand in hand with accomplishing your health and physical activity goals. 

For example, if you are prepping for a marathon and have worked out for a long period of time, it is important to replenish the amount of glucose stored in your muscles. This will help your body adapt to longer exercise times and repair tissue damage. Therefore, choosing a pea protein powder with a high amount of carbohydrates will be extremely useful.

It is also important to replenish muscle glycogen when working out to fuel your muscles. Carbs help with endurance during your workout and recovery after your workout. For moderate exercise that lasts longer than 30 minutes, multiplying 1.2 grams of carbohydrates for every kilogram of your body weight will help with replenishing glucose levels. (15)

The amount of fat you desire in your pea protein powder will be highly dependent upon your individualized goal. If your goal is to gain weight, a higher fat and higher calorie product would be appropriate. Lean towards the higher end of that percentage range — 30 to 35 percent of your total daily calories. (16) Otherwise, limit total fat intake to 20 to 35 percent of your total daily calorie intake. 

Always assess the type of fat in the ingredients label prior to purchase. Ingredients that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds, will offer a wide array of health benefits and are therefore encouraged. They help to decrease your likelihood of developing a chronic illness, may improve cognitive function, and are likely to be able to improve blood lipid panels (lab work that looks at fat in the blood). (17)

Protein is essential for repairing the muscles post-workout and increasing muscle mass. It is also a very satiating macronutrient — meaning that it helps to fight hunger and manage weight more easily. The amount of protein you will need in a day will vary greatly by age, sex, and physical activity level. Aiming for at least 20 grams of protein per serving when choosing a pea protein powder is a good general rule. In order to make sure that you are meeting macronutrient goals that best support your health journey, consult with a registered dietitian nutritionist!  

Other Ingredients

Some pea protein powders are made with artificial sweeteners such as sucrose and may cause gastrointestinal irritation. For those who are sensitive to it, it would be better to choose a product made with plant-based sugars like stevia. 

Depending on what you hope to achieve with the addition of pea protein powder to your diet, choose a product that will help you accomplish those goals. For example, those working out routinely would benefit from branched-chain amino acids being in their supplement’s formulation. Those who sweat heavily during exercise and/or are working out outside routinely would benefit from having a higher volume of electrolytes in their pea protein powder. 

Flavors

Like many other factors, flavor plays a huge role in the decision-making process. Before jumping into using a product, consider how you want to use your pea protein powder. Many people opt for the traditional shaker bottle and water. So it will be important for you to choose a pea protein powder that is a flavor that you like. However, smoothies and smoothie bowls are also a popular way to incorporate pea protein powder into your daily routine. 

If you are looking for ways to bulk up your nutrient intake, try adding pea protein powder to steel-cut oatmeal, overnight oats, whole-grain cereal, pancake or waffle batter, cake or muffin batter, or even your coffee. The supplement you choose will influence the flavor profile you are trying to achieve. 

Vanilla pea protein powder added to dark chocolate chips and banana muffin batter is a go-to in my household. It’s also a good choice for mixing with any of your favorite bodybuilding supplements. Really, vanilla flavor works well in just about everything. You can use pea protein powder to make a more nutrient-dense and healthier version of the dessert of your choosing. Try adding chocolate peanut butter flavored pea protein to cookie batter or cafe mocha flavored pea protein to coffee. 

Third-Party Testing

Dietary supplements are not regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). So in order to establish brand credibility and trust, manufacturers use third-party testing. Independent third-party testing essentially verifies that the ingredients used by the manufacturer are pure, free of contamination, and in the quantities represented on the supplement’s label. Contamination can come in many forms and different third-party testing looks for different specifications — microbial life, heavy metals, and toxins are just some examples.

Price

The pea protein powders found in this review will vary from $0.76 to $3.24 a serving. The more affordable options are not necessarily manufactured with ingredients that are cheaply sourced. In the case of the products above, products on the higher end of the price range simply have more ingredients, to increase the amount of benefits you are exposed to. 

For example, the most expensive product (Vega Sport Premium) offers what other products do not: 2 billion CFUs of probiotics to help with gut nutrient digestion and absorption. The second most expensive powder (Gainful Vegan Protein Powder) is quite literally individualized to you and therefore specially formulated to meet your needs. 

Final Thoughts

Pea-based protein powder is an easy way to incorporate beneficial vegetable nutrients and help you to keep up your health and wellness desires. Before you add just any pea protein powder to your Amazon cart, rely on this review as a guide for the best protein powders, made from premium pea protein blends. We do the hard work for you of analyzing the many plant-based pea protein powders out there to consolidate them down into our top picks. 

Pea protein powder is a great product to help you build muscle, manage body weight, decrease your post-workout recovery time, and ensure that you are consuming enough daily protein to support your fitness goal. This guide was researched by a nutrition expert to give you peace of mind and confidence in your dietary supplement choice. 

Best Pea Protein Powder: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Pea Protein Powder Overall	Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building	Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder	Best Organic Pea Protein Powder
Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein	Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder	Ladder Plant Protein	Vega Sport Protein	Gainful Vegan Protein Powder
Primary Rating: 4.5	Primary Rating: 4.2	Primary Rating: 4.0	Primary Rating: 4.2	Primary Rating: 4.5
Description: Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein Number of servings: 30 Cost: $1.67 per serving Calories per serving: 130 to 150 Protein per serving: 24 grams Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla  Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs	Description: Number of servings: 76 Cost per serving: $0.76 Calories per serving: 120 Protein per serving: 27 grams  Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $2.00 Calories per serving: 130 Protein per serving: 21 grams Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla  Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport	Description: Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed Number of servings: 12 to 20 Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving Calories per serving: 170 to 180 Protein per serving: 30 grams Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport	Description: Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag  Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21 Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results  Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results  Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing
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Best Pea Protein Powder Overall

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss

Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Number of servings: 76
• Cost per serving: $0.76
• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals

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Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building

Ladder Plant Protein

Primary Rating:

4.0

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport

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Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder

Vega Sport Protein

Primary Rating:

4.2

Description:

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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Best Organic Pea Protein Powder

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

Primary Rating:

4.5

Description:

• Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag 
• Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21
• Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored
• Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing

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FAQs

Research

1. Carapeto C; Brum S; Rocha MJ. Which table salt to choose?. Nutr Food Sci. 2018;8:1-4. ISBN: 2155-9600.
2. Heffernan SM, Horner K, De Vito G, et al. The role of mineral and trace element supplementation in exercise and athletic performance: a systematic review. Nutrients. 2019;11(3):696. doi: 10.3390/nu11030696
3. Hossain MF, Islam MT, Islam MA, et al. Cultivation and uses of stevia: a review. AJFAND. 2014;17(4). doi: 10.18697/ajfand.80.16595
4. Hussain A, Kausar T, Sehar S, et al. A Comprehensive review of functional ingredients, especially bioactive compounds present in pumpkin peel, flesh and seeds, and their health benefits. Food Chem Adv. 2022:1. doi: 10.1016/j.focha.2022.100067
5. Krefting J. The appeal of pea protein. JRN. 2017;27(5):31-33. doi: 10.1053/j.jrn.2017.06.009
6. Shah SH, Crosslin DR, Haynes CS, et al. Branched-chain amino acid levels are associated with improvement in insulin resistance with weight loss. Diabetologia. 2012;55:321–330. Doi: 10.1007/s00125-011-2356-5
7. Zafon C, Lecube A, and Simó R.  Iron in obesity. An ancient micronutrient for a modern disease. Obes Rev. 2010;11:322-328. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-789X.2009.00638.x
8. Banaszek A, Townsend JR, Bender D, et al. The effects of whey vs. pea protein on physical adaptations following 8-weeks of high-intensity functional training (hift): a pilot study. Sports. 2019;7(1):12. doi: 10.3390/sports7010012
9. Nie C, He T, Zhang W, et al. Branched chain amino acids: beyond nutrition metabolism. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(4):954. doi: 10.3390/ijms19040954
10. Zhang Z, Cogswell ME, Gillespie C, et al. Association between usual sodium and potassium intake and blood pressure and hypertension among U.S. adults: NHANES 2005–2010. PLOS. 2013;8(10):75289. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075289
11. Vitale K, Hueglin S, Broad E. Tart cherry juice in athletes: a literature review and commentary. Curr Sports Med Rev. 2017;16(4):230-239. doi: 10.1249/JSR.0000000000000385
12. Elstrott B, Khan L, Olson S, et al. The role of iron repletion in adult iron deficiency anemia and other diseases. Eur J Haematol. 2020;104:153–161. doi: 10.1111/ejh.13345
13. Joy JM, Lowery RP, Wilson JM, et al. The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutr J. 2013;12:86. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-12-86
14. Wu G. Dietary protein intake and human health. Food Funct. 2016;7:1251-1265. doi: 10.1039/c5fo01530h
15. Ivy JL. Regulation of muscle glycogen repletion, muscle protein synthesis and repair following exercise. J Sports Sci Med. 2004;3(3):131-138. PMID: 24482590
16. Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Guidelines and Key Recommendations. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK469839/#:~:text=Keep%20total%20fat%20intake%20between,low%20fat%2C%20or%20fat%20free. Last reviewed: November 16, 2017. Accessed September 08, 2023.
17.  Omega-3 fatty acids. National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-Consumer/. Last reviewed: July 18, 2022. Accessed September 01, 2023. 
18. Babault N, Paizis C, Deley G, et al. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015;12:1. doi: 10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5

The post Best Pea Protein Powders for Weight Loss, Muscle Building, and More (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As a registered dietitian nutritionist, I am often asked for recommendations on the best probiotic supplements. In my experience, I have found that those who start taking probiotics report less gastrointestinal discomfort in the form of gassiness, abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. I have counseled hundreds of people and have found that routine use of probiotics can help with food digestion and absorption. 

In this review, we will dive deep into our top 10 picks and answer all of your questions as they relate to formula, bacterial strains, colony-forming units (CFU, or the number of viable bacterial cells in a probiotic), cost, serving size, and product form.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Probiotic

To save you time and money, we have tested almost two dozen probiotic supplements and determined our top 10 favorite options. We carefully considered each probiotic’s dose, cost, CFU ability, form (powder versus capsule versus beverage), type of bacterial strain, and added beneficial ingredients. For gummies and probiotic drinks, we also considered flavor options and taste, as taking a supplement that you enjoy is key to being consistent with it.

Making a well-informed decision about dietary supplements is important. Not every probiotic supplement is made the same. Most have different strains in varying amounts and many have different supporting ingredients that boost your health and promote healthy bacteria growth. Whether you prefer supplements in powder, gummy, capsule, or beverage form — we have you covered. If you are looking to support your weight loss journey, decrease IBS symptom flare-ups, desire a product that is vegetarian-friendly, or need a finance-friendly probiotic, this review is sure to have a product that will meet your needs.

Our Top Picks for the Best Probiotic Supplements

• Best Probiotic Overall: Ritual Synbiotic+
• Best Probiotic for Women: Primal Kitchen Primal Probiotics
• Best Probiotic for Men: Transparent Labs Probiotic
• Best Probiotic for Gut Health: Legion Biome
• Best Probiotic Yogurt: Activia Probiotic Dailies Low Fat Yogurt Drink
• Best Probiotic for IBS: YourBiology Gut+
• Best Probiotic for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Naked Gut
• Best Prebiotic and Probiotic: Onnit Total GUT HEALTH
• Best Probiotic for Bloating: Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic
• Best Probiotic Gummies: Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy

Best Probiotic Overall: Ritual Synbiotic+

Ritual Synbiotic+

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.80
• Form: Delayed-release capsule
• Strains: Two
• CFU count: 11 billion

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Unlike any other probiotic supplement we have tested and researched, Ritual Synbiotic+ packages its bacterial strains in a vegan, time-delayed release, minty-flavored capsule. A time-delayed release capsule is beneficial, as it gives the supplement time to pass through the stomach without prematurely being broken down. (I discuss this more under the “When Is the Best Time to Take a Probiotic?” heading below.)

To further put your mind at ease, this product is delivered to you in a moisture-controlled bottle. The packaging prevents it from being exposed to contamination and degradation. 

Ritual Synbiotic+ is aptly named because it includes both probiotics and prebiotics. When a probiotic and prebiotic are consumed in combination, they are grouped into what we call synbiotics. Synbiotics have been found to regulate the immune system and prevent chronic disease. They are also responsible for potentially alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, treating infection, and helping manage symptoms caused by cancer therapy. (2)

Ritual Synbiotic+ has only two strains of probiotics. It provides 11 billion CFU of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis. This CFU count is on the lower end compared to other products. However, these two strands are highly researched and have been found to potentially enhance digestion, increase immunity, and even improve mental health. (3)

Each capsule also contains 15 milligrams of PreforPro prebiotic and 300 milligrams of tributyrin, both of which have been studied in clinical trials at those specific doses.

RELATED: Ritual Vitamins Review

Tributyrin is a short-chain fatty acid (the type of fatty acid that is considered beneficial and protective of your health) that has been connected to decreasing gut inflammation. Tributyrin supplementation has been strongly recommended by researchers as a potential way to treat metabolism disorders such as obesity. (4)

Ritual discloses where it obtains its specific strains from and the strains’ final location of manufacturing. Its prebiotic is supplied by Deerland and manufactured in Kennesaw, GA. Its probiotic blend is supplied by Chr. Hansen and manufactured in Hvidovre, Denmark. Ritual sources its tributyrin from Compound Solutions, and it is manufactured in Sevilla, Spain. This level of transparency is unique, as not all probiotic companies disclose where they get their probiotic and prebiotic strands and other ingredients from.

Many probiotics use an animal-based coating for their capsules or manufacture their product with dairy-based protein. But to keep Synbiotic+ open to everyone, Ritual uses only plant-based ingredients — from the capsule to its formula. Ritual Synbiotic+ is also third-party verified and tested for quality and safety to make sure it complies with regulations for heavy metals, major allergens, and microbes. 

A member of the Breaking Muscle reviews team used this probiotic for several weeks and had a positive experience with it. She found the mint-flavored capsules refreshing, but while she didn’t experience many side effects, she did notice some gassiness after taking it. Keep in mind, though, that your experience may vary, and we still recommend Ritual Synbiotic+ for anyone who wants to add a safe, vegan, and gluten-free probiotic to their regimen. 

RELATED: Best Collagen Supplements

Best Probiotic for Women: Primal Kitchen Primal Probiotics

Primal Kitchen Primal Probiotics

• Number of servings: 60
• Cost per serving: $0.50
• Form: Gelatin capsule 
• Strains: Four
• CFU count: 10 billion

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To help support women’s health, Primal Probiotics contains the highly clinically researched strains Lactobacillus acidophillus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Lactobacillus paracasei. These strains have been strongly correlated with helping to prevent, improve symptoms associated with, and even improve the condition of bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. They help us women achieve optimal health by maintaining proper pH levels to support a healthy vaginal and digestive tract microbiome. (5)(6) For these reasons, we consider it the best probiotic for vaginal health.

Both the Lactobacillus acidophillus and Bifidobacterium lactis strains have been found to support the way women absorb minerals from food during digestion. According to research, healthy women who supplemented with these strains (and did not change their dietary patterns) were found to have an improved mineral composition — particularly calcium, iron, copper, and magnesium. (6)

Probiotics only survive if they have received proper nutrition to flourish and thrive best when you also consume prebiotics (food that is non-digestible, such as insoluble fiber). Primal Probiotics has an added 200 milligrams of prebiotics in each capsule. This is a clinically-supported dose of prebiotics and is a fair amount when compared to other prebiotic-containing probiotics. Rest assured that this product delivers you the right kinds of nutrition to help the beneficial bacteria flourish.

Best Probiotic for Men: Transparent Labs Probiotic

Transparent Labs Probiotic

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.53
• Form: Capsule 
• Strains: 10
• CFU count: 100 billion

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Men who struggle with high blood cholesterol levels may benefit from the Transparent Labs Probiotic in several ways. The strand Lactobacillus acidophilus has been found to reduce testicular tissue damage caused by high cholesterol levels in the blood. It is also linked to potentially improving male fertility hormone levels. (7)

With each capsule, you will be introducing 10 strains of good microbes into your gut. All of these strains derive from three specific bacteria: Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, and Streptococci. Among other strains, you will get automatic access to Bifidobacterium bifidum, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Lactobacillus paracasei. All of these strains are highly correlated with increasing nutrition absorption and improving digestion. 

More than half of the strains found in Transparent Labs Probiotic are from Lactobacillus. A randomized, crossover study found that men who supplemented with Lactobacillus paracasei (a strain found in this product) were able to raise their overall testosterone levels in just 24 hours after consumption when compared to men who received a placebo supplement. (8)

Free of artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives, Transparent Labs Probiotic is third-party verified to ensure label accuracy and ingredient purity. When it comes to deciding which probiotic supplement is best for men, it was an obvious choice.

Note, however, that you may not notice any positive changes if you already eat a lot of fermented foods. One of our male staff members tried it for several weeks and didn’t notice a difference in how he felt, though he eats fermented foods nearly every day. This probiotic may be better suited for men who lack these types of foods in their diet.

Best Probiotic for Gut Health: Legion Biome

Legion Biome

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Form: Capsule
• Strains: Three
• CFU count: 25 billion

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Designed to support your overall gut health, Legion Biome is made with research-backed ingredients to improve how well you absorb nutrients, decrease inflammation, and improve gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating and cramping. It is also lab-tested for ingredient purity and potency. This kind of testing checks for contamination, heavy metals, major allergens, and unregulated microbes. 

Legion Biome provides you with 10 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium lactis B420, which is strongly correlated with improving nutrient absorption. This strand has the ability to assist the gut in breaking down complex carbohydrates into molecules that are easier to digest and therefore more readily absorbed. By improving macronutrient breakdown, this strain of probiotic can potentially help reduce the likelihood of you developing a vitamin or mineral deficiency. It can also help improve the immune system. (9)

Also playing a large role in immune system regulation is Bacillus subtilis DE111. You will get five billion CFU of this strain from Legion Biome per serving. This particular strand may reduce inflammation of the intestines and increase the amount of anti-inflammatory immune cells found in the gut lining. (10)

Last but certainly not least is the 10 billion CFUs you will obtain from Lactobacillus plantarum 299v. This research-supported strain has been found to improve symptoms of bloating, gas, and pain. People who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have reported improvement in their symptoms when supplementing with Lactobacillus plantarum 299v.

One of our product testers found the capsules easy to swallow but didn’t notice any major changes since she started taking this probiotic a few weeks ago. Still, if you are seeking to improve your gut health, add Legion Biome into your regimen as a way to possibly improve overall function, offer protection to your intestinal lining, and boost your immune health. (11)

RELATED: Best Creatine Supplements for Building Muscle, Cutting, and More

Best Probiotic Yogurt: Activia Probiotic Dailies Low Fat Yogurt Drink

Activia Probiotic Dailies Low-Fat Yogurt Drink

4.0

• Number of servings: Eight
• Cost per serving: $0.67
• Form: Bottled drink 
• Strains: Five
• CFU count: “Billions”

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If you aren’t looking to add another pill to your daily health regimen, try a yummy yogurt drink like the Activia Probiotic Dailies Low-fat Yogurt Drink. This product is only 3.1 ounces of liquid, making it an easy and delicious way to take care of your gut.

This yogurt drink will introduce you to five healthy, gut-friendly probiotic bacteria: Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactococcus lactis, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010, and Bifidobacterium lactis CNCM I-2494. Activia Probiotic Dailies also provides you with 10 percent of your recommended daily value of vitamin D. Vitamin D is difficult to obtain from gummy and encapsulated probiotics, giving Activita’s probiotic drink an advantage for those who are cognisant of vitamin deficiency. (12)

Vitamin D has many roles, including support for immunity, hormone regulation, and bone strength. But one of its major roles is helping to maintain intestinal integrity. It helps to promote gut health by creating gut lining that is attractive to good bacteria and repairing damage caused by harmful bacteria. 

Try mixing this drink with your morning smoothie, making a yogurt parfait with berries and nuts, or adding it to your overnight oats for extra nutrients.

Best Probiotic for IBS: YourBiology Gut+

YourBiology Gut+

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.17
• Form: Capsule
• Strains: Four
• CFU count: 40 billion

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Anyone who suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can attest to the many supplements they have likely tried to help relieve symptoms. This chronic condition usually leads to a lifelong battle with gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort, bloating, gas, iron deficiency anemia, malabsorption, and other GI conditions. (13) Finding a supplement that may help alleviate IBS symptoms is difficult. But as always, we have you covered. 

YourBiology Gut+ uses four powerful strains — Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus paracasei. The amount of each strain in this proprietary blend is not disclosed, but they are listed in descending order of potency on the label.

These specific strains have been clinically researched to support their use in improving digestion and bowel movement patterns. The beneficial bacteria introduced to your gut by this product have been found to help with the specific IBS-related symptoms of gas, stomach pain, unpredictable bowel movements, and bloating. (14)(15)

Clinical trials have linked the use of Lactobacillus plantarum with IBS-related symptom relief within four weeks of supplementation. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis supplementation has been found to reduce stomach distention, relieve GI pain and discomfort, and assist with normalizing bowel movement weight and consistency. (14)(15)
Additional placebo-controlled research discovered that supplementing with Lactobacillus paracasei may reduce IBS symptom severity and help regulate bowel movements. (16)

Best Probiotic for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Naked Gut

Naked Nutrition Naked Gut

4.5

• Number of servings: 40
• Cost per serving: $0.62
• Form: Digestive powder
• Strains: One
• CFU count: Five billion

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There is no one-step cure for weight loss. However, evidence-based research has demonstrated that appropriate exercise alongside a balanced, healthy whole-food diet can help facilitate weight loss safely and effectively. So why not supplement with something that can help promote your gut health for maximum nutrient absorption on your weight management journey? 

For only 15 calories and four grams of carbohydrates per scoop, you can help your gut health flourish with Naked Nutrition Naked Gut powder. It only has one strain of probiotic (Bacillus subtilis DE111), compared with other supplements that have 10 or more strains. But with every scoop, you will receive 1,000 milligrams of the amino acid glutamine.

In a pilot study focusing on the effects of glutamine on females, researchers found that those who supplemented with it experienced a reduction in their overall body weight and waist circumference. They attributed this weight loss to the effects that glutamine has on metabolism and possibly decreasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. (17)

Inulin is a type of prebiotic and soluble fiber, both of which help to improve healthy gut microbiota numbers. With Naked Nutrition Naked Gut supplement, you will get 850 milligrams of inulin in the form of Jerusalem artichoke. This particular form of inulin has been linked to improving blood lipid levels (the amount of fat found in your blood). It also increases your gut’s Bifidobacterium strain count. Increased Bifidobacterium counts have been connected to better metabolism, reduced waist circumference, and reduced overall body fat. (18)

Naked Nutrition Naked Gut is made without artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors. Many reviewers comment that this product has high solubility but that the flavor is “just okay.” However, several other people report that after mixing it in a smoothie or their morning coffee, they had no issues with the flavor.

RELATED: Best Supplements for Weight Loss

Best Prebiotic and Probiotic: Onnit Total GUT HEALTH

Onnit Total Gut Health

4.5

• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.53
• Form: Vegetarian capsules 
• Strains: Five
• CFU count: 35 billion

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Onnit Total Gut Health is more than a probiotic supplement. To best support your overall gut health, this product delivers 5,250 milligrams of prebiotic, 3,500 milligrams of betaine hydrochloride, and 1,890 milligrams of a digestive enzyme blend per packet. These beneficial nutrients are in addition to the impressive 35 billion CFUs of probiotics you can expect to receive per package. 

Betaine hydrochloride may help you maintain a normal stomach pH level and therefore help with food digestion. It has also been linked to possibly promoting diversity of the gut microbiome and may make healthy gut bacteria more available for prebiotics to nourish. (19)

As discussed, probiotics flourish best when they have prebiotics available to nourish them. Prebiotics are more readily available to probiotics if you are able to break your food down and digest macronutrients well.

With Onnit Total Gut Health, you have all the help you need from its specialized digestive enzyme blend. This blend consists of 16 enzymes that have the potential to maximize your nutrient absorption by easily breaking down your food.

Amylase, for example, is present in this product in a high quantity of 23,000 SKB, which measures how quickly a complex carb is broken down into simpler carbs. This is almost half of the normal amount that naturally occurs in your mouth. Amylase has been well-researched as a way to digest carbohydrates. This leaves room for the 5,250 milligrams of prebiotics present per serving to feed your healthy gut bacteria and assist with maintaining intestinal integrity. (20)

Best Probiotic for Bloating: Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic Supplements for Women & Men

Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic

4.0

• Number of servings: 60
• Cost per serving: $0.52
• Form: Capsule 
• Strains: One
• CFU count: 12 billion

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Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic Supplements for Women & Men is more affordable than other probiotics supplements on the market, coming in at around $0.52 per serving, compared with other probiotics that cost $1.50 or more per serving.

It is made with high-quality ingredients, including the strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which has a high threshold for survival. Studies reveal that this particular strain increases in population with routine probiotic supplementation. In a randomized, double-blind trial, it was correlated with reducing symptoms of bloating when compared to placebo groups. (21)

In addition to the 12 billion CFU of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, this product contains 200 milligrams of inulin in the form of chicory root extract. In this form, inulin is not digestible by humans. Therefore, it survives the low pH of the stomach and is not digested or absorbed by enzymes. Inulin is necessary for probiotics to function at their max capacity since they are what probiotics feed on. Because Culturelle already has inulin present in its formula, the probiotic strain is more likely to thrive. (22)

Best Probiotic Gummies: Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy

Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy

4.0

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.40
• Form: Gummy 
• Strains: One
• CFU count: 500 million

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Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic comes in a chewable gummy form, which is a great alternative for those who do not want to use capsules or liquids to get their daily dose of probiotics. I have personally had several clients use this gummy and they all report that they enjoy the peach flavor.

Each serving size is only one gummy. Per gummy, plan on receiving 500 million CFU of the Bacillus coagulans strain. This bacteria strain functions as an immune system supporter by decreasing the likelihood that bad bacteria will grow. It also has the ability to create enzymes that help with food digestion and therefore absorption.

Bacillus coagulans has been recommended by scientists to help prevent and treat gastrointestinal diseases such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease. (23)

Within the 1,500-milligram prebiotic blend in Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy, you will find Fructooligosaccharides (FOS). FOS may decrease the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. It can also assist in bowel movement regulation by helping control the balance between constipation and diarrhea. Additionally, FOS may improve mineral absorption in the gut and help decrease the risk of mineral deficiencies — particularly zinc, calcium, iron, and magnesium. (24)

RELATED: AG1 Review

When Is the Best Time to Take a Probiotic?

To get the most out of your probiotic product, routine is key. Making it a part of your everyday schedule will help with remembering to supplement since it is recommended to use probiotics daily for optimal gut health. You will get the most out of your probiotic if you time it around meals. Probiotics are live bacteria organisms and the best way to ensure they make it to your intestines for absorption is to get them through your stomach organ quickly. 

The stomach has a very low pH level and its acidity can destroy the healthy gut bacteria before they have a chance to reach the small intestines. Therefore, taking your probiotic on an empty stomach will help your probiotics survive best. Whether that means right when you wake up or right before you lay down at night will depend on your lifestyle and established routines. However, it is important to keep in mind that some forms of probiotics are meant to be taken with food. Rely on the manufacturer’s recommendation when deciding what will work best. 

RELATED: 4 Signs You Are Taking Too Many Probiotics

Benefits of Probiotics

Some of the many benefits of supplementing with probiotics include the following:

• May help with weight loss (17)
• Can improve macronutrient and micronutrient absorption through healthy digestion (9)
• Possibly decrease the risk of developing a vitamin or mineral deficiency (9)
• May decrease uncomfortable GI symptoms of bloating, gas, irregular bowel movements, and stomach pain (13)
• Possibly decrease malabsorption of nutrients caused by disease (4)

What to Look For in a Probiotic Supplement

It’s tempting to go to the store and grab just any probiotic off the shelf. Researching what probiotic supplement will work best to support your health and wellness goals takes a lot of time — something that most of us don’t have nowadays. However, the guide below can help you understand what to look for in a probiotic supplement and make your shopping experience less stressful.

Form

Probiotics come in many forms: powder, gummy, capsules, and drinks. Before purchasing, think about what form will lead to your being consistent with taking it. If you routinely drink a morning smoothie, perhaps the powdered, drink, or breakable capsule forms would work best for you. If you have texture aversions or difficulty swallowing, the gummy form may be more suitable than capsules.  

Storage Information

The best way to determine proper storage is to seek the manufacturer’s specific recommendations on the product packaging. Proper storage will also vary depending on the form of supplement you choose. For example, gummy-based probiotics are more likely to melt or lose their shape if exposed to warmer temperatures. Some probiotics have to be refrigerated because certain strains may degrade faster if they’re not kept cold.

As a general rule, keep your probiotics in a cool, dry area that is free of contamination. Besides the Activia Probiotic Dailies Low Fat Yogurt Drink, the supplements in this review are shelf-stable and do not have to be refrigerated. 

Colony-Forming Units (CFU)

The quantity of CFU present will be an important factor to consider when picking the best probiotic for you. A CFU refers to how many microbiota cells are estimated to proliferate (survive and create more healthy gut bacteria) in a given cell population. The larger the number of CFU per serving, the greater the likelihood of increasing the amount of survivable, good bacteria to your digestive tract. (25)

In my experience with counseling clients, the “perfect amount” of CFU differs from person to person. It is heavily based on the survivability of the bacteria strains — which can be impacted by your diet, genetic predisposition, any malabsorptive diseases, and other factors.

It is important to consider the amount of the supplement it will take for you to achieve your desired CFU count. If your goal is to take in at least 20 billion CFU but a pre-mixed drink only offers 10 billion, you will need to decide if drinking two of those drinks makes sense to you. Some products have a serving size listed as a package but the package itself contains seven capsules. If that amount sounds unreasonable, consider choosing a supplement that only calls for one or two capsules a day. 

Bacterial Strains

Why are you seeking out a probiotic? It could be to help with overall body weight, GI discomfort, or general well-being. Because different strains of bacteria perform different functions, you will need to ensure that the probiotic supplement you choose has strains that can assist you in achieving your health goal. Supplementing with Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, for example, has been found to reduce stomach distention, relieve GI pain and discomfort, and assist with normalizing bowel movement weight and consistency. (14)(15)

Final Thoughts

Probiotic supplements can be an excellent, affordable way to improve the health of your gut microbiota. Probiotics work fast, and many users report improved gastrointestinal conditions within a few weeks of routine supplementation. Research supports the use of beneficial, live organisms as a way to support your weight loss journey, potentially decrease irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, improve your immune system, and possibly decrease the risk of developing GI-related diseases such as colon cancer. 

Before you pick one, there are many things to consider so that you can best support your health. Our top 10 best probiotics are carefully chosen, vetted for your safety, and well-researched so that you can make a well-informed decision. Utilize this review as a way to choose a probiotic that may best improve your overall health. 

Best Probiotic: Side-by-Side Comparsion

Best Probiotic Overall	Best Probiotic for Women	Best Probiotic for Men	Best Probiotic for Gut Health	Best Probiotic Yogurt	Best Probiotic for IBS	Best Probiotic for Weight Loss	Best Prebiotic and Probiotic	Best Probiotic for Bloating	Best Probiotic Gummies
Ritual Synbiotic+	Garden of Life Once Daily Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women	Transparent Labs Probiotic	Legion Biome	Activia Probiotic Dailies Low-Fat Yogurt Drink	YourBiology Gut+	Naked Nutrition Naked Gut	Onnit Total Gut Health	Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic Supplements for Women & Men	Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy
Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.80 Form: Delayed-release capsule Strains: Two CFU count: 11 billion	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.00 Form: Vegetarian capsule  Strains: 16 CFU count: 50 billion	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.53 Form: Capsule  Strains: 10 CFU count: 100 billion	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.67 Form: Capsule Strains: Three CFU count: 25 billion	Description: Number of servings: Eight Cost per serving: $0.67 Form: Bottled drink  Strains: Five CFU count: “Billions”	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $2.17 Form: Capsule Strains: Four CFU count: 40 billion	Description: Number of servings: 40 Cost per serving: $0.62 Form: Digestive powder Strains: One CFU count: Five billion	Description: Number of servings: 15 Cost per serving: $2.53 Form: Vegetarian capsules  Strains: Five CFU count: 35 billion	Description: Number of servings: 60 Cost per serving: $0.52 Form: Capsule  Strains: One CFU count: 12 billion	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $0.40 Form: Gummy  Strains: One CFU count: 500 million
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Best Probiotic
Overall

Ritual Synbiotic+

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.80
• Form: Delayed-release capsule
• Strains: Two
• CFU count: 11 billion

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Best Probiotic for Women

Garden of Life Once Daily Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.00
• Form: Vegetarian capsule 
• Strains: 16
• CFU count: 50 billion

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Best Probiotic for
Men

Transparent Labs Probiotic

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.53
• Form: Capsule 
• Strains: 10
• CFU count: 100 billion

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Best Probiotic for Gut Health

Legion Biome

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.67
• Form: Capsule
• Strains: Three
• CFU count: 25 billion

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Best Probiotic
Yogurt

Activia Probiotic Dailies Low-Fat Yogurt Drink

Description:

• Number of servings: Eight
• Cost per serving: $0.67
• Form: Bottled drink 
• Strains: Five
• CFU count: “Billions”

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Best Probiotic
for IBS

YourBiology Gut+

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.17
• Form: Capsule
• Strains: Four
• CFU count: 40 billion

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Best Probiotic for Weight Loss

Naked Nutrition Naked Gut

Description:

• Number of servings: 40
• Cost per serving: $0.62
• Form: Digestive powder
• Strains: One
• CFU count: Five billion

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Best Prebiotic and Probiotic

Onnit Total Gut Health

Description:

• Number of servings: 15
• Cost per serving: $2.53
• Form: Vegetarian capsules 
• Strains: Five
• CFU count: 35 billion

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Best Probiotic for Bloating

Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic Supplements for Women & Men

Description:

• Number of servings: 60
• Cost per serving: $0.52
• Form: Capsule 
• Strains: One
• CFU count: 12 billion

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Best Probiotic
Gummies

Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummy

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.40
• Form: Gummy 
• Strains: One
• CFU count: 500 million

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FAQs

Research

1. Bertazzoni E, Donelli G, Midtvedt T, et al. Probiotics and clinical effects: is the number what counts? Journ of Chemo. 2013;25(4):193-212. doi: 10.1179/1973947813Y.0000000078
2. Yadav MK, Kumari I, Singh B, et al. Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics: Safe options for next-generation therapeutics. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2022;106:505-521. doi: 10.1007/s00253-021-11646-8
3. Flach J, Van der Waal MB, Kardinaal AFM, Schloesser J, Ruijschop RMAGJ, Claassen E. Yildiz F (Reviewing Editor). Probiotic research priorities for the healthy adult population: A review on the health benefits of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis BB-12, Cogent Food & Agriculture. 2018;4(1). doi: 0.1080/23311932.2018.1452839
4. Van Deuren T, Smolders L, Hartog A, et al. Butyrate and hexanoate-enriched triglycerides increase postprandrial systemic butyrate and hexanoate in men with overweight/obesity: A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized crossover trial. Front in Nutr. 2023;9. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1066950
5. Petrova MI, Lievens E, Malik S, et al. Lactobacillus species as biomarkers and agents that can promote various aspects of vaginal health. Front in Phys. 2015;6. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2015.00081
6. Czajeczny D, Kabzinska-Milewska K, Wojciak RW. Bifidobacterium lactis BS01 and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA02 supplementation may change the mineral balance in healthy young women. Journ of Elem. 2021;26(4):849-859. doi: 10.5601/jelem.2021.26.1.2121
7. Ciftici G, Tuna E. Effects of cholesterol and Lactobcillus acidophilus on testicular function. Clin Exp Reprod Med. 2021;48(3):229-235. doi: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04322
8. Fukami H, Ueda T, Matsuoka N. Pharmacokinetic study of compound k in japanese subjects after ingestion of panax ginseng fermented by lactobacillus paracasei a221 reveals significant increase of absorption into blood. Journ of Med Food. 2019:257-263. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2018.4271
9. Uusitupa HM, Rasinkangas P, Lehtinen MJ, et al. Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis 420 for metabolic health: review of the research. Nutrients. 2020;12(4):892. doi: 10.3390/nu12040892
10. Freedman KE, Hill JL, Wei Y, et al. Examining the gastrointestinal and immunomodulatory effects of the novel probiotic bacillus subtilis DE111. IJMS. 2021;22(5):2453. doi: 10.3390/ijms22052453
11. Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka K, Daca A, Folwarski M, et al. The role of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v in supporting treatment of selected diseases. CEJI. 2020;45(4):488-493. doi:10.5114/ceji.2020.101515.
12. Charoenngam N, Holick MF. Immunologic effects of vitamin d on human health and disease. Nutrients. 2020;12(7):2097. doi: 10.3390/nu12072097
13. Patel N, Shackelford K. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Updated Oct 30, 2022. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534810/
14. Ducrotté P, Sawant P, Jayanthi V. Clinical trial: Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843) improves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(30):4012-4018. doi:10.3748/wjg.v18.i30.4012
15. Martoni CJ, Srivastava S, Leyer GJ. Lactobacillus acidophilus dds-1 and bifidobacterium lactis uabla-12 improve abdominal pain severity and symptomology in irritable bowel syndrome: randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2020;12(2):363. doi: 10.3390/nu12020363
16. Lewis ED, Antony JM, Crowley DC, et al. Efficacy of lactobacillus paracasei ha-196 and bifidobacterium longum r0175 in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (ibs): a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Nutrients. 2020;12(4):1159. doi: 10.3390/nu12041159
17. Laviano, A., Molfino, A., Lacaria, M. et al. Glutamine supplementation favors weight loss in nondieting obese female patients. A pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014;68:1264–1266. doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2014.184
18. Yu Q, Zhao J, Xu Z, et al. Inulin from Jerusalem artichoke tubers alleviates hyperlipidemia and increases abundance of bifidobacteria in the intestines of hyperlipidemic mice. Journ of Funct Foods. 2018;40:187-196. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2017.11.010
19. Guilliams TG, Drake LE. Meal-time supplementation with betaine hcl for functional hypochlorhydria: what is the evidence. Integr Med. 2020;19(1):32-36. 
20. Zhang Q, Han Y, Xiao H. Microbial α-amylase: A biomolecular overview. Proc Biochem. 2017;53:88-101. doi: 10..1016/j.procbio.2016.11.012
21. Yoon JS, Sohn W, Lee OY, et al. Probiotics in irritable bowel syndrome. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;29:52-59. doi: 10.1111/jgh.12322
22. Teferra TF. Possible actions of inulin as prebiotic polysaccharide: A review. Food Front. 2021;2:407-416. doi: 10.1002/fft2.92
23. Cao J, Yu Z, Liu W, et al. Probiotic characteristics of Bacillus coagulans and associated implications for human health and diseases. Journ of Funct Foods. 2020;64:103643. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.103643
24. Kherade M, Solanke S, Tawar M, et al. Fructooligosaccharides: A comprehensive review. JAHM. 2021;7(3)193-200. doi: 10.31254/jahm.2021.7305
25. Stachura DL, Traver D. Chapter 4 – Cellular dissection of zebrafish hematopoiesis: enumeration of colony forming units (CFUs), Methods in Cell Biology. 2011;101:75-110. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-387036-0.00004-9

The post Best Probiotic Supplements to Maximize Your Health in 2024 appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

These aren’t just any protein shakes. They were carefully selected for their formulation, cost, and unique features that fit several of life’s occasions. Protein shakes can be excellent supplements to help with weight loss, and they may decrease your risk of developing a chronic disease, improve muscle mass, and even support pregnancy. (1)(2)  

We want to help support your health and wellness journey. Through rigorous research, our goal is to make sure that you are well informed to make the best decision for you. Are you ready to find a protein shake that will best fit your lifestyle? Check out our top picks below to dig deeper into how they may help elevate your health. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Our Top Picks for the Best Protein Shakes

• Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss: PhenQ Complete Meal Shake
• Best Tasting Protein Shakes: Premier Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake
• Best Protein Shakes for Muscle Gain: Fairlife Core Power Elite
• Best Pre-made Protein Shakes: Orgain Grass Fed Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shakes for Diabetes: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Vegan Protein Shakes: Orgain Vegan Organic Nutrition Shake
• Best Protein Shakes for Pregnancy: Ritual Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum
• Best Protein Meal Replacement Shakes: Huel Ready-to-Drink
• Best Protein Powder for Shakes: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
• Best Low-carb Protein Shakes: Naked Nutrition Vegan Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shakes for Weight Gain: Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer

Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss: PhenQ Complete Meal Shake

PhenQ Complete Meal Shake

3.5

• Type of protein: Whey protein concentrate 
• Cost per serving: $2.99
• Calories per serving: 180 to 190
• Protein per serving: 16 to 17 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Strawberry & Cream, Vanilla

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Pros

• Digestive enzyme complex added to aid in digestion and absorption 
• Made with zero added sugars 
• Contains 13 vitamins per scoop

Cons

• Manufactured with xanthan gum and sucralose 

There is no magic wand for weight loss. However, the PhenQ Complete Meal Shake may be the missing link in your fitness routine to put your weight loss goals into action. This vegetarian-friendly supplement uses mostly natural ingredients, including gluten-free oat flour, whey protein concentrate, and flaxseed. PhenQ is honest about its development process and reports that it has gone through 32 renditions of this shake to achieve the perfect combination of taste, texture, and nutrition. 

PhenQ recommends replacing only one of your daily meals with this shake. It is important not to rely solely on dietary supplements for nutrition. Following a healthy diet composed of whole foods and macronutrient recommendations specific to you will be the best way to nourish your body. The PhenQ Complete Meal Shake is meant to supplement your intake of healthy, whole food sources.

Unlike many other protein supplements, it contains a digestive enzyme complex and Carb10. Carb10 is made out of high-quality pea starch. Several research studies have shown that peas positively impact our metabolism and decrease our risk of developing diabetes. Pea protein has also been found to help curb our appetite. (1)

The Digezyme Enzyme Complex has five major digestive enzymes: lactase, cellulase, protease, lipase, and alpha-amylase. Whether or not you have digestion issues (such as lactose intolerance), this complex may help you. This special blend of key enzymes helps to facilitate the digestive process to increase nutrient absorption and decrease gastrointestinal discomfort.

Additionally, by improving absorption, you are less likely to develop a vitamin or mineral deficiency that could hinder weight loss. (3) For example, those who have vitamin D deficiency may have more difficulty losing weight. A healthy diet in addition to improving vitamin D levels has been correlated with weight loss. (4)

Best Tasting Protein Shakes: Premier Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake

Premier Protein Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake

• Type of protein: Milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate 
• Cost per serving: $2.37 to $2.50
• Calories per serving: 160
• Protein per serving: 30 grams 
• Flavors: Banana, Cafe Latte, Cake Batter Delight, Caramel, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Cookies & Cream, Pumpkin Spice, Root Beer Float, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla

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Pros

• Variety of delicious flavors
• Only five grams of carbs and one gram of sugar per bottle
• 650 milligrams of calcium per serving — 50% of your recommended daily value 

Cons

• Manufactured with gums, fillers, and artificial sweeteners
• Not suitable for individuals who have chronic kidney disease

The award for best tasting protein shake goes to Premier Protein — particularly for its chocolate peanut butter flavored shake. At the time of this writing, this product has 193,783 reviews on Amazon and holds a 4.5 out of 5-star rating. 

Many users report that this product is very smooth and does not leave their mouths feeling gritty from the protein blend. Since it comes pre-made, you do not have to hassle with making your own protein shake with powder and trying to find the right water-to-powder ratio. Premier Protein is quick and easy for you to consume. 

This shake is served up with a whopping 30 grams of protein per bottle. Protein is one of three macronutrients, with fats and carbohydrates being the other two. Protein is the main one to help with increasing satiety (keeping you full for longer). This is highly beneficial for those who are seeking to lose weight. (5) Premier Protein’s delicious flavor is just a fantastic added benefit. 

However, this product is not suitable for those diagnosed with any stage of chronic kidney disease. If you have chronic kidney disease stage 5 and receive dialysis, your protein needs will be high. However, every other stage of kidney disease calls for a low-protein diet. Regardless if you are a dialysis recipient and no matter the stage of kidney disease you have, Premier Protein shakes will be too high in potassium and phosphorus. One bottle provides 320 milligrams of potassium and 550 milligrams of phosphorus — both nutrients that those with kidney disease have to pay special attention to. (6)

Tip: try pairing this high-protein shake with a fruit for a yummy breakfast combo. Bananas with chocolate and peanut butter? Yes, please!

Best Protein Shakes for Muscle Gain: Fairlife Core Power Elite

Fairlife Core Power Elite

• Type of protein: Filtered low-fat grade A milk 
• Cost per serving: $4.62 to $4.82
• Calories per serving: 230
• Protein per serving: 42 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla

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Pros

• Made with the lactase enzyme to aid in milk protein digestion and decrease the likelihood of GI discomfort 
• Offers a heaping amount of protein per 14-ounce bottle
• Zero grams of added sugars 

Cons

• Chocolate flavor is not available on Amazon for purchase, at the time of this writing 
• Made with fillers, gums, and artificial sweeteners 

What if I told you that you could have a protein shake with 42 grams of protein and only eight grams of carbohydrates? We’re not wizards — it’s real. Fairlife Core Power Elite shakes are an excellent source of protein if you are looking to gain muscle. Researchers have found that high-protein diets are advantageous for those looking to increase muscle mass. (2)

In each bottle, you will receive 900 milligrams of calcium. If you want to gain muscle, this is in your favor. Quick anatomy lesson: muscle fibers are composed of bundles of two proteins called “actin” and “myosin.” When your muscles contract, actin and myosin essentially slide on top of one another. Without calcium, actin and myosin would not be able to connect, and the muscles would not contract. (7) Therefore, getting 70% of your recommended daily value for calcium in one bottle is huge. You will feed your muscles what they need to contract, tear, and build.

RELATED: Best Protein Powders for Muscle Gain

Best Pre-made Protein Shakes: Orgain Grass-Fed Protein Shake

Orgain Grass-Fed Protein Shake

• Type of protein: Grass-fed organic milk protein concentrate, organic whey protein concentrate
• Cost per serving: $3.58
• Calories per serving: 160
• Protein per serving: 26 grams 
• Flavors: Creamy Chocolate Fudge

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Pros

• Gluten-free and soy-free 
• Made without genetically modified organisms (non-GMO) 
• Certified USDA Organic 

Cons

• Only one flavor option available 

As long as you are down with the flavor Creamy Chocolate Fudge, Orgain Grass-Fed Protein Shakes will be sure to impress you as much as it does us. 

This product checks a lot of boxes. It’s gluten-free, soy-free, USDA organic, non-GMO, Kosher, high-protein, and low-sugar. With only 160 calories per bottle, it brings 26 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and four grams of fat to the table. Orgain uses whey protein concentrate to help pack its bottles with high-quality protein. 

Whey protein has functionality qualities, meaning it provides many health benefits that surpass its nutritional value. This is a big role to fill considering that whey protein is already a refined, highly digestible protein source in itself. (8)

For example, whey protein has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may decrease your risk of developing cancer or diabetes. Whey protein is so compatible with the human body, that once we digest and absorb it, its amino acids target specific organs that may need its help. For example, it may improve cardiac-related lab values that are associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease. (9)

Best Protein Shakes for Diabetes: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

4.0

• Protein type: Whey protein isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.00 per serving
• Calories per serving: 120 to 150
• Protein per serving: 28 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Mocha, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Strawberry, Unflavored, Vanilla Peanut Butter
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Pros

• Zero grams of fat and one gram of carbohydrate per serving 
• Manufactured with stevia and no artificial flavors or sweeteners
• Made in powder form — you can blend it into the beverage of your choice and/or sprinkle it onto food 
• Made without artificial preservatives 

Cons

• Not suitable for those with a dairy allergy, as it contains milk 

Your search for a 100% all-natural protein powder has come to an end. Transparent Labs has gone out of its way to ensure you don’t have to question its products. The whey protein isolate supplement derives from totally grass-fed American dairy cattle and has only naturally occurring ingredients. 

Since individuals with diabetes have to actively watch their carbohydrate intake, it is especially difficult to find a dietary supplement that supports their therapeutic diet. Allow me to put your mind at ease since this powder has only one gram of carbohydrates, zero added sugars, and less than one gram of total sugars per serving. 

Those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of experiencing digestive issues — particularly fast gastric emptying (when the food you eat passes through your stomach to your intestines very quickly, causing discomfort). Research studies have found positive correlations between consuming whey protein and slowing gastric emptying. In other words, this whey protein powder can help improve GI discomfort for those who have type 2 diabetes. (10)

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is in powder form, unlike other supplements in this review that are pre-made shakes or drinks. It is easily mixed and dissolves quickly in most beverages. But to keep your carbohydrate intake low, add a scoop of this powder to water instead of juice.

RELATED: Best Whey Protein Powders

Best Vegan Protein Shakes: Orgain Vegan Organic Nutrition Shake

Orgain Vegan Organic Nutrition Shake

4.2

• Type of protein: Organic pea protein, organic chia seeds
• Cost per serving: $3.00
• Calories per serving: 230 to 240
• Protein per serving: 16 grams 
• Flavors: Smooth Chocolate, Vanilla Bean

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Pros

• Made with plant-based protein sources 
• Certified organic and non-GMO 
• Made with 24 vitamins and minerals 
• Lactose-free 

Cons

• Not a low-carb choice at 30 grams per serving/carton
• Includes 10 grams of added sugars per serving/carton

If you’ve struggled to find the best plant-based protein shakes, look no further than Orgain Vegan Organic Nutrition Shakes for your plant-based protein fix. Orgain uses pea protein and chia seeds in this formulation to provide you with the best dairy-free protein shake. 

Pea protein has gained popularity over the last few years for its versatility in the cooking industry and its vast amount of health benefits. Who is ready for a protein shake that could possibly decrease your risk of developing heart issues, reduce the risk of getting diabetes, drive cholesterol numbers down, and help fight obesity? It can’t be just me. Pea protein has been directly linked to these health benefits. (11)

Chia seeds are frequently used by food manufacturers to increase their product’s nutrient density. These tiny seeds are chock full of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Therefore, they help to promote digestive and cardiovascular health. Present within chia seeds are phytochemicals, ingredients that help us to fight bacteria and viruses. (12) So, go ahead and add potential immune-boosting capabilities to the chia seed benefit list as well. 

Best Protein Shakes for Pregnancy: Ritual Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum

Ritual Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum

• Protein type: Pea
• Number of servings: 15
• Cost: $2.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 115
• Protein per serving: 20 g
• Flavors: Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Sport

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Pros

• 250 milligrams of choline per serving 
• Informed Sport and Informed Protein Certified 
• Non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, no artificial flavors or colors
• Sweetened with sugarcane and monk fruit 

Cons

• Only one flavor option available 

Mamma, it takes hard work to grow your child, and there can be a lot of pressure in choosing safe nutrition supplements for your growing baby. To ensure you give your baby a head start on a healthy life, good nutrition during your pregnancy is essential. Ritual Daily Shake has got you covered during this big life transition.  

To support your pregnancy, this powder packs 250 milligrams of choline into each scoop. When it comes to choline, experts agree wholeheartedly on one thing: it is absolutely essential for a mother to consume this compound during pregnancy. Adequate choline levels help to support your growing baby’s nervous system and decrease its risk of birth defects. It also offers a protective function for the mother’s liver and placenta. (13)

Although this plant-based protein powder only comes in one flavor, product users aren’t upset with it. Several describe it as having a vanilla flavor with a hint of caramel. To diversify how to use Ritual’s daily shake, try making popsicles after blending it up, throw in a few extra ingredients for high-protein ice cream, mix it with fat-free milk and cocoa powder for protein pudding, or make your own lean protein smoothie!

Best Protein Meal Replacement Shakes: Huel Ready-to-Drink

Huel Ready-to-Drink

• Type of protein: Pea protein, ground flaxseed 
• Cost per serving: $5.00
• Calories per serving: 400 
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Banana, Chocolate, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Shortcake, Vanilla

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Pros

• Non-GMO
• No animal products and, therefore, dairy-free
• Gluten-free 

Cons

• More expensive than comparable items on the market 

Huel’s ready-to-drink protein shake is a true meal replacement and has 19 grams of fat and 41 grams of carbohydrates per serving. A good combination of fat, protein, and carbohydrates will keep you satiated for longer than a high-protein shake with zero grams of fat and carbs. If you need complete nutrition on the go, consider this your meal in a bottle. However, keep these macronutrients in mind if you are seeking a high-protein shake that is low-carb and low-fat. 

This vegan meal replacement shake delivers 400 calories alongside 20 grams of protein per bottle. Huel comes in several flavors, and many users report that it is smooth, not gritty, and tastes great. In addition to vitamins, minerals, omega 3, and omega 6, this gluten-free product features a fantastic eight grams of fiber per serving. 

Fiber is a highly beneficial nutrient that most Americans do not consume enough of daily. It may decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease or diabetes and increase digestive regularity. This phytonutrient plays a large role in suppressing hunger between meals and therefore can help improve body weight. (14)

Best Protein Powder for Shakes: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

4.0

• Protein type: Whey isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.20 to $1.33
• Calories per serving: 110 to 130
• Protein per serving: 25 grams, depending on the flavor
• Flavors: Cookies & Cream, Unflavored (if you buy from Amazon)
• Third-party tested: No

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Pros

• Low-fat and low-carb shake 
• One gram of total sugars and zero added sugars per serving 
• cGMP certification  

Cons

• Manufactured with the artificial sweetener sucralose 

If you prefer to make your protein shakes yourself, allow Jacked Factory’s Authentic ISO powder to complete your shake with a solid 25 grams of protein per scoop. This third-party verified powder will not disappoint you or your wallet. For only $1.33 per scoop, it is one of the more affordable products we have reviewed. 

Jacked Factory takes the extra steps necessary to ensure the ingredients are clean and pure. You don’t have to worry about gums, fillers, or ingredients that are too complicated to pronounce.

Unlike many other supplements we have researched, the Authentic ISO powder features Himalayan rock salt. This type of salt is particularly high in calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium. All of these electrolytes are essential for fluid management to help keep you properly hydrated. (15)

One reason we have deemed this protein powder the best for making shakes is its versatility. Since it is not a pre-made mixture, you can get creative with how you use it! Many users report great success with using the Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie flavor to make high-protein cookies and the Blueberry Muffin flavor to make protein-packed muffins and bread.

RELATED: Best Creatine Supplements

Best Low-Carb Protein Shakes: Naked Nutrition Vegan Protein Shake

Naked Nutrition Vegan Protein Shake

• Type of protein: Yellow pea protein 
• Cost per serving: $1.40
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 20 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Chocolate Coconut Almond, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Lemon Blueberry, Peanut Butter Blueberry, Strawberry Banana, Vanilla

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Pros

• Certified gluten-free and vegan-friendly 
• No artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors 
• GMO-free and soy-free 

Cons

• Many flavors are not suitable for those with a peanut allergy 

If you are in the market for a low-carb shake as a way to reduce blood glucose levels (blood sugar) from spiking, Naked Nutrition’s Vegan Protein Shake has you covered. In addition to 20 grams of protein, it has just six grams of carbohydrates per serving, making this our best low-carb option. 

Yellow peas are the sole origin of protein, making this dietary supplement suitable for vegans. Research has demonstrated that those who consumed pea protein had a significantly lower blood glucose level after eating than placebo groups. (16)

Not only is the carb count of Naked Nutrition Vegan Protein Shake already low but the fiber in the pea protein can also slow carbohydrate absorption. Dietary fiber and plant-based proteins have been found to delay glucose absorption and therefore keep you from feeling hungry so quickly between meals. (17)

Made without artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors, this vegan protein powder is GMO-free, soy-free, and gluten-free. Naked Nutrition products are always produced in the United States and its protein sources are grown on both United States and Canadian farms. In addition to knowing exactly where your protein source is coming from, you can also trust that what’s listed on the ingredient label is exactly what you will find in this protein powder.

Best Protein Shakes for Weight Gain: Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer

Crazy Nutrition Mass Gainer

4.0

• Number of servings: 20 
• Price per serving: $4.50
• Calories per serving: 488 
• Protein per serving: 39 to 40 grams
• Fat per serving: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates per serving: 55 to 56 grams

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Pros

• Manufactured with a gluten-free oat flour 
• Contains an added digestive enzyme complex for ease of digestibility 
• Vegetarian-friendly

Cons

• Advertised as providing 50 grams of protein but only contains about 39 grams of protein per serving 
• Serving size is four scoops (125 grams)

Develop powerful muscles with Crazy Nutrition’s Mass Gainer. This vegetarian-friendly mass gainer supplement has the perfect concoction of ingredients for those wanting to gain weight and bulk up. Per each 125-gram serving, you will get an average of 487 calories, 10 grams of fat, 56 grams of carbohydrates, and nearly 40 grams of protein. It also contains MCT oil, which has been well-studied for its ability to contribute to weight gain. (18) 

Other ingredients specific to this product’s formulation are gluten-free oat flour, whey protein concentrate, maltodextrin, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil powder. Oat flour is gluten-free and considered highly nutritious. The six grams of fiber it provides per serving is a comparably good fiber content when compared with other supplements. Fiber can also assist with appetite control and improved lipid panels (fat in your bloodwork). (19)

Research-backed outcomes support the use of maltodextrin (a type of carb) for improving endurance and sports performance. When combined with glutamine, maltodextrin supplementation directly increases muscle power in athletes. Since whey protein is composed of about eight percent glutamine, and Crazy Nutrition’s Mass Gainer’s protein source is whey protein concentrate, it may help you perform better in the gym. (3) It can also support your post-workout muscle recovery. (20)

How We Chose the Best Protein Shakes

To make sure we can support your health and fitness goals, we research each and every product we review. You can rest assured that each product has been vetted so that you can make a well-informed decision about what will work best for you.

To decide which protein shakes made the cut for the list above, we reviewed the cost, protein type, ingredients, overall calorie content, and macronutrient profiles. Whether you consume animal products or follow a vegan lifestyle, are looking to gain muscle or lose weight, or have a small or large budget, you should be able to find a protein shake that suits your needs.

Benefits of Drinking Protein Shakes

There are many reasons to consider adding protein shakes to your diet. Protein shakes can:

• Help facilitate weight loss (1)
• Decrease risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease (1)
• Improve your satiety levels (1)
• Build muscle mass (2)
• Aid in post-workout muscle recovery (3)

When Is the Best Time to Drink Protein Shakes?

The best time to drink a protein shake is entirely up to you! How you expect protein shakes to fit into your everyday life will help you determine the best time to consume them. For some, a protein drink in the morning with a piece of fruit is a quick, easy way to get out the door for work. For others, drinking a protein shake directly after working out helps to increase muscle gains and improve post-workout recovery time. Modify the time that you choose to drink your protein shake to suit your lifestyle. 

Are Protein Drinks Healthy?

To determine if a protein drink is healthy for you, you will need to review its nutrition label to make sure it is compatible with your health status and lifestyle.

For example, a high-carbohydrate protein shake may be dangerous for someone with diabetes and cause high blood glucose levels. A protein shake that is too high in potassium and phosphorus is damaging to those who have chronic kidney disease. Choosing a protein shake that will be healthy for you is a very individualized decision. Ensure that the product you choose will help support you, not hurt you. 

What To Consider When Buying Protein Shakes

Choosing the best protein shakes requires some careful consideration, as everyone has different nutrition needs and goals. Our guide below covers everything you should evaluate before deciding which protein shake is right for you.

Price

Protein shakes and powders above cost anywhere from $28.48 to $89.99. This price range is reflective of what you will get out of them. Protein shakes and powders with a higher number of natural ingredients and higher-quality proteins usually cost more. That is not to say that the less expensive products are made with cheap ingredients. They just tend to lack a wide variety of ingredients that bolster your health goals. 

Also, remember that many of the supplements above have your money in mind. To keep you as a recurring customer, many manufacturers offer scheduled shipments, bulk-buying, and webpage subscriptions that often discount the price. 

Calories

Protein shakes and powders can have anywhere from 110 to 487 calories per serving. To determine how many calories you should get out of your shake, you should first determine how many calories per day you should consume. Healthy women and men, at an ideal body weight, can multiply their weight in kilograms by 25 and 30 to determine their daily calorie range. Individuals with a BMI classified as obese should multiply their ideal body weight in kilograms by 30. This method of calculating calories is based on ideal body weight only. (21)

The Mifflin-St Jeor Equation, however, takes into consideration lifestyle factors such as activity level, sex, and age to provide a range for achieving your goals safely. This method has been used for decades and is vetted by research as a way to accurately calculate your ideal calorie range. You can easily find Mifflin-St Jeor calculators online to help you determine your calorie needs.

The number of calories you eat per meal will be determined by your activity levels and lifestyle. For example, if you are planning on having a heavy workout session after dinner, it’s a good idea to save some of your daily calorie allotment and consume a higher-calorie dinner than breakfast and lunch.

However, to keep things simple for determining how many calories per serving you need your protein shake to be, let’s divide your calorie intake by five small, frequent meals throughout the day. If you were to eat 2,000 calories total daily, each meal may have 400 calories, so you’d want to look for a protein shake with 400 calories per serving.

Macronutrients

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for daily protein has been verified repeatedly and is considered the gold standard for protein calculation. You can determine how much you need by multiplying 0.8 grams of protein by your body weight in kilograms. These needs increase to 1.0, 1.3, and 1.6 grams of protein depending on if you perform minimal, moderate, or high-intensity workouts. This increase in protein can assist with increasing strength and skeletal muscle mass. (22)

You can also determine how many grams of protein you need a day based on your calculated calorie goal. Daily protein intake can safely range from 10 to 35 percent of your daily calorie goal. Depending on your activity level, you can determine where in that range your needs fall. 

According to the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, it is easier to gain muscle when you consume protein in even intervals throughout the day. Once you have calculated the amount of protein you should eat per day, you can determine how many grams of protein you should ideally consume at each meal. From there, you can determine how much protein your ideal protein shake should have per serving. (23)

For example, if you eat 150 grams of protein daily and want to spread it evenly across five meals, you should look for a protein shake with 30 grams of protein per serving.

The amount of carbohydrates and fat needed in your protein shake will come down to your nutrition goals. For example, if you want to incorporate a morning protein shake into your on-the-go lifestyle, consider a protein shake with fat and carbohydrates in it to keep you fuller for longer. If your goal is weight loss, choose a shake with a limited amount of carbs and fat to avoid unnecessary calorie intake. 

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals found in food. Different types of protein shakes have different micronutrient profiles. Plant-based protein sources tend to have a higher fiber content per serving when compared to animal-based protein. Proteins derived from plants also have naturally high potassium, vitamin C, and folate levels. Animal proteins are usually high in zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. Check the nutrition facts label of a supplement to get specifics on the micronutrients you may want to consume more of. 

Type of Protein

If you prefer dairy and animal-based sources, look for shakes with whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and filtered low-fat grade A milk. If you follow a vegan and plant-based lifestyle, look for protein shakes with pea protein, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed. 

Ingredients List

A nutrition facts label will be a good friend to depend on when making your choice about the best protein shake to fit into your routine. Manufacturers routinely list major food allergens or intolerances on the supplement bottle. Check the label carefully for ingredients that may cause concern, like gluten, soy, or dairy. If you are concerned about how certain ingredients will interact with your medications, check with your provider to make sure the supplement you pick is appropriate. 

In addition, be on the lookout for other ingredients that may reinforce your health desires, such as antioxidants, omega-3, omega-6, vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, probiotics, and fiber. If you feel like you need further guidance about reaching your nutrition destination, speak with a registered dietitian nutritionist. 

Storage

When in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for properly storing your protein shakes and protein powders. Generally speaking, protein powders will last for just over a year when stored in a cold, dry, and uncontaminated area. After opening, pre-made protein shakes normally last around five to seven days if they are closed and refrigerated properly. Unrefrigerated protein shakes can make it just over a year if you store them properly. Always rely on the expiration date of these products to ensure safe consumption.

Potential Side Effects

Protein shakes affect everyone differently, and potential side effects are something to consider prior to your purchase. For example, liquid protein intake on an empty stomach can lead to GI discomfort and feelings of bloating or diarrhea. Choose a product that will not interfere with your medical diagnoses or current medications. To be sure a dietary supplement is appropriate for you, consult your medical provider. 

Final Thoughts

Protein shakes are a fantastic way to boost your protein intake and support your health goals. Whether you are looking to improve lean muscle mass, lose weight, gain body weight, or recover quicker from a workout, adequate protein intake can help.

There are many factors to consider before deciding which protein shake or powder you want to roll with. To help you pick one that promotes your fitness journey and your overall wellness, we have compiled our favorite 11 options from the literal thousands of protein supplements out there. Use our guide above to help you choose the right protein shake for your needs.

FAQs

Research

1. Dahl WJ, Foster LM, Tyler RT. Review of the health benefits of peas (Pisum sativum L.). BJN. 2012;108(S1):S3-S10. doi:10.1017/S0007114512000852
2. nune EA, Colenso-Semple L, McKellar SR, et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of protein intake to support muscle mass and function in healthy adults.J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle. 2022;13:795– 810. doi: 10.1002/jcsm.12922
3. Roxas M. The role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders. Alt Med Rev. 2008;13(4):307-314
4. Lotfi-Dizaji L, Mahboob S, Aliashrafi S, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation along with weight loss diet on meta-inflammation and fat mass in obese subjects with vitamin D deficiency: A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. Clin Endocrinol. 2019;90:94–101. doi: 10.1111/cen.13861
5. Morell P, Fiszman S. Revisiting the role of protein-induced satiation and satiety. J Food Hydro. 2017;68:199-210. doi: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2016.08.003
6. Carrero JJ, González-Ortiz A, Avesani CM, et al. Plant-based diets to manage the risks and complications of chronic kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2020;16: 525–542. Doi: 10.1038/s41581-020-0297-2
7. Irving M. Regulation of contraction by the thick filaments in skeletal muscle. Biophyy Journ. 2017;133:2579-2594. doi: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.09.037
8. Yiğit A, Bielska P, Cais-Sokolińska D, et al. Whey proteins as a functional food: Health effects, functional properties, and applications in food. J Am Nutr Assoc. 2023;1-11. doi:10.1080/27697061.2023.2169208
9. Minj S, Anand S. Whey proteins and its derivatives: bioactivity, functionality, and current applications. Dairy. 2020;1(3):233-258. doi: 10.3390/dairy1030016
10. Ma J, Stevens JE, Cukier K, et al. Effects of a protein preload on gastric emptying, glycemia, and gut hormones after a carbohydrate meal in diet-controlled type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2009;32(9):1600-1602. doi:10.2337/dc09-0723
11. Shanthakumar P, Klepacka J, Bains A, et al. The current situation of pea protein and its application in the food industry. Molecules. 2022; 27(16):5354. doi: 10.3390/molecules27165354
12. Katunzi-Kilewela A, Kaale L, Kibazohi O, et al. Nutritional, health benefits and usage of chia seed (Salvia hispanica): a review. AJFS. 2021;15(2):48-59. doi: 10.5897/AJFS2020.2015
13. Zeisel S. Nutrition in pregnancy: the argument for including a source of choline. IJWH. 2013;5:193-199. doi: 10.2147/IJWH.S36610
14. Slavin J. Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients. 2013;5(4):1417-1435. doi: 10.3390/nu5041417
15. Papp Z. Morphological and microchemical characterizations of himalayan salt samples. Rev Roum Chem. 2016;61(3):169-174
16. Ramdath D, Renwick S, Duncan AM. The role of pulses in the dietary management of diabetes. Can J of Diabetes. 2016;40(4):355-363. doi: 10.1016/j.jcjd.2016.05.015
17. Abutair AS, Naser IA, Hamed AT. Soluble fibers from psyllium improve glycemic response and body weight among diabetes type 2 patients (randomized control trial). Nutr J. 2016;15:86. doi: 10.1186/s12937-016-0207-4
18. Saeadi R, Ghorbani Z, Shapouri Moghaddam A. The effect of massage with medium-chain triglyceride oil on weight gain in premature neonates. Acta Med Iran. 2015;53(2):134-138
19. Decker EA, Rose DJ, Stewart D. Processing of oats and the impact of processing operations on nutrition and health benefits. BJON. 2014;112(S2):S58-S64. doi:10.1017/S000711451400227X
20. Davies RW, Carson BP, Jakeman PM. The effect of whey protein supplementation on the temporal recovery of muscle function following resistance training: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2018;10(2):221. doi: 10.3390/nu10020221
21. Masuda K, Aoki K, Kawaguchi J, et al. Effect of caloric intake 25 or 30 kcal/kg/day on the glycemic control in obese patients with type 2 diabetes. J Clin Med Res. 2013;5(5):368-375. doi: 10.4021/jocmr1488w
22. Wu G. Dietary protein intake and human health. Food Funct. 2016;7:1251-1265. doi: 10.1039/C5FO01530H
23. Jager R, Kerksick CM, Campbell BI, et al. International society of sports nutrition position stand: protein and exercise. J Int Soc Sport Nut. 2017;20. doi: 10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8

The post Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss, Muscle Gain, Diabetes, and More appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Evidence-based research teaches us that bodybuilders have a lowered risk of heart-related issues, burn calories more effectively, have a high muscle-to-fat ratio and increased strength threshold, and effectively manage their metabolism. (1) Dietary supplements have been proven as an effective way to boost your workout to reap the benefits of all the hard work you are putting in.

For example, whey protein isolate can improve your ability to make muscle, and post-workout supplements can help you push through recovery. Other supplements, like caffeine, help you to get hyped for your workout. Let’s take a closer look at our top 10 picks for the best bodybuilding supplements and leave you informed to make the best decision for your fitness lifestyle with this fact-checked review.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Our Top Picks for the Best Bodybuilding Supplements

• Best Natural Bodybuilding Supplement: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Bodybuilding: XWERKS Ignite
• Best Bodybuilding Supplement for Cutting: Transparent Labs Stim-Free Fat Burner
• Best BCAAs for Bodybuilding: Jacked Factory BCAA Fermented
• Best Vegan Bodybuilding Supplement: Naked Nutrition Vegan Weight Gainer
• Best Creatine for Bodybuilding: Jacked Factory Creatine Monohydrate Powder
• Best Caffeine-Free Supplement for Bodybuilding: Legion Athletics Pulse Stim-Free Pre-Workout
• Best Bulking Stack for Bodybuilding: CrazyBulk Bulking Stack
• Best Protein for Bodybuilding: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Recovery Supplement for Bodybuilding: Kaged Re-Kaged

Best Natural Bodybuilding Supplement: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

4.0

• Protein type: Whey protein isolate
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $2.00 per serving
• Calories per serving: 120 to 150
• Protein per serving: 28 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Mocha, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Strawberry, Unflavored, Vanilla Peanut Butter
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Pros

• Sourced from 100% grass-fed, American dairy cattle
• Zero grams of fat and added sugars, with only one gram of carbohydrate 
• Manufactured without artificial flavors or sweeteners

Cons

• Shipping may take up to seven days

Supplementing with pure, credible products is especially important for natural competitive bodybuilders (or athletes who bodybuild). Keeping it clean will ensure you are not breaking any rules with the use of banned substances. Since Transparent Labs is very transparent about what ingredients it uses to make its supplements, you will not have to stress over whether or not this product is safe for consumption.

Bodybuilders who practice energy restriction in addition to resistance training and high-intensity exercises have a high protein threshold to meet for muscle gain. Researchers have concluded that this protein intake should be 2.3 to 3.1 grams of protein per kilogram of fat-free body mass. (2) This is nearly 2 grams of protein per kilogram more than a non-bodybuilder. (3)

Bodybuilder protein needs add up fast to achieve the desired body composition! Lucky for you, this whey protein isolate powder delivers a whopping 28 grams of protein per scoop.

Research has proven that supplementing with at least 15 grams of whey protein before and after strength training leads to increased muscle creation. Actually, whey supplementation was found to quite literally alter your genetic makeup to favor muscle building. (4) To ensure you get the most natural form of whey protein you can, Transparent Labs uses dairy from 100% grass-fed American cattle. You’ll notice that this product is made entirely of whey isolate. This formulation can lead to easy digestibility and enhanced absorption. (4)

You can have peace of mind that this product is really all it says it is — a protein supplement. The nutrition facts label reveals that this protein powder has only 120 calories, zero grams of added sugar, zero grams of fat, and only one gram of carbohydrates per scoop. If you are searching for an all-natural protein supplement, you will not find a product more open about its genuine ingredients than this one. 

RELATED: Best Whey Protein Powders for Packing on Muscle

Best Pre-Workout Supplement for Bodybuilding: XWERKS Ignite

XWERKS Ignite

4.0

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.63
• Amount of caffeine per serving: 150 milligrams
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Green Apple, Orange, Watermelon
• Third-party tested: No

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Pros

• Manufactured with a unique blend of nootropics (substances that can enhance brain function)
• Shipping is free regardless of how much you spend 
• Money back guarantee ensures that you are eligible to receive a refund

Cons

• Sweetened artificially with sucralose

The best pre-workout supplements may not only improve overall body strength but also performance power and endurance. Research has found this to be especially true in young men who routinely practice resistance training exercises. (5) Since bodybuilders utilize resistance training for hypertrophy, pre-workouts are a good supplement to consider. But don’t just pick any product. Choose XWERKS Ignite.

XWERKS is sure to light a fire within you to get you pumped for your exercise routine. This supplement has a unique blend of ingredients: vitamins B6 and B12, calcium, magnesium, Rhodiola, caffeine, DMAE bitartrate black pepper, tyrosine, citrulline malate, and CarnoSyn beta-alanine. That sounds exciting, right? To understand the excitement, let’s review a few.

B vitamins have been linked to improving exercise performance, while electrolytes like calcium and magnesium can assist in keeping you hydrated. (6) Caffeine has been linked to improving athletic performance by directly impacting your nervous system. (7) Black pepper has been found to improve how we transport and use oxygen during exercise. (8)

In addition to improving their focus and performance, reviewers are also pleased with the flavor options available in XWERKS Ignite. If it tastes great and has research-backed ingredients, there’s not much more we can ask for.

Best Bodybuilding Supplement for Cutting: Transparent Labs Stim-Free Fat Burner

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Fat Burner

• Number of servings: 60
• Cost per serving: $0.92
• Noteworthy ingredients: 300 milligrams of green tea leaf extract, 250 milligrams of ForsLean, 50 milligrams of Paradoxine, and 50 milligrams of Capsimax 
• Flavors: None – sold as capsules 
• Third-party tested: Analytical Resource Laboratories Certified; Elite Manufacturing & Packaging Third-Party Tested

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Pros

• Utilizes an allergen control program that processes products without allergen contamination 
• Vegan and vegetarian-friendly ingredients and manufacturing standards 
• Gluten-free and non-GMO (genetically modified organism)

Cons

• Some reviewers report experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort such as stomach cramping and loose bowel movements

If you are sensitive to stimulants commonly found in dietary supplements, there is hope for you yet. When you need a little boost in your supplement line-up that helps with cutting, consider using Transparent Labs Stim-Free Fat Burner.

This supplement is made up of four key ingredients that may help you with fat loss by burning fat more efficiently: green tea leaf extract, ForsLean, Paradoxine, and Capsimax.

A randomized, double-blind trial found a significant correlation between green tea extract dosing and weight loss, a decreased waist circumference, and improved lipid panels (blood tests that measure the levels of fat in your blood). (9) Another research study found that supplementing with ForsLean ingredients safely and effectively led to an overall reduction in adipose tissue. (10)

Paradoxine — aka “Grains of Paradise” — may increase energy use and burn fat. (11) (Sorry ladies, most studies correlate this process to only men.) Studies involving Capsimax found that participants had elevated core temperatures that increased their metabolism and promoted weight loss. (12)

In addition to its benefits, Transparent Labs Stim-Free Fat Burner is made without artificial colors or sweeteners. It is also sold as capsules. The convenience of the capsules may come in handy if you are looking to add a product to your routine that you can easily take on the go.

Best BCAAs for Bodybuilding: Jacked Factory BCAA Powder

Jacked Factory BCAA Powder

4.5

• Number of servings: 30
• Price per serving: $0.60 to $0.67
• Amount of BCAAs per serving: Six grams 
• Calories per serving: Less than 30
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Unflavored
• Third-party tested: cGMP-certified

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Pros

• Each scoop provides six grams of the research-backed 2:1:1 ratio of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
• Made with fermented BCAAs to help with digestibility and absorption 
• Manufactured in a cGMP-certified, FDA-registered facility

Cons

• Contains the artificial sweetener sucralose

Exercise will almost certainly lead to muscle soreness and fatigue. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if a supplement existed that could delay muscle pain and boost your endurance? With Jacked Factory BCAA Fermented, your search for said supplement is over.

Branched-chain amino acids are significantly researched due to their potential to help delay muscle fatigue and reduce overall muscle soreness. Jacked Factory BCAA Fermented offers the research-backed 2:1:1 ratio of branched-chain amino acids. But what exactly does that mean?

There are only three branched-chain amino acids: l-leucine, l-valine, and l-isoleucine. The 2:1:1 ratio simply means that the best way to consume these amino acids is by ingesting double the amount of leucine than valine and isoleucine. The double consumption of leucine may lead to an increase in muscle protein synthesis and improved performance. (13)(14)

One of the most affordable yet quality BCAA supplements on the market, this product offers flavor options that current users can’t get enough of. The powder also mixes easily without leaving clumps and tastes great at any temperature — just ask my Jacked Factory fan and exercise enthusiast hubby.

Spirulina powder may be used to provide natural coloring for this powder, but the health benefits it provides aren’t anything to ignore. Spirulina is an alga that has caught a lot of positive attention for its ability to decrease blood pressure, reduce tumor growth risk, and boost the immune system. (15)

Best Vegan Bodybuilding Supplement: Naked Nutrition Vegan Weight Gainer

Naked Nutrition Vegan Weight Gainer

• Number of servings: 11
• Price per serving: $5.91
• Calories per serving: 1,230 to 1,280
• Protein per serving: 50 grams
• Fat per serving: Four to 15 grams
• Carbohydrates per serving: 237 to 248 grams

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Pros

• Contains vegan and vegetarian-friendly protein sources 
• Gluten-free and dairy-free
• No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners

Cons

• It takes four scoops to equal one serving – this will increase the amount of fluid you will need to mix with it for the best solubility

Whether or not you seek a product that is vegan-friendly, the Naked Nutrition weight gainer supplement is sure to boost your caloric intake and help you pack on muscle. With your health in mind, this product is made without artificial sweeteners, colors, or additives. In fact, it contains only three key ingredients: organic tapioca maltodextrin, yellow pea protein, and organic brown rice protein.

Yellow pea protein is a plant-based protein alternative to whey or other animal-based protein sources. It may help subdue your appetite, decrease circulating fat in your blood, and decrease your blood pressure. (16)

Tapioca maltodextrin is classified as a resistant starch — in other words, it is difficult for our bodies to digest it. This might sound like a bad thing, but it has a positive effect. Because it has low digestibility, tapioca maltodextrin usually doesn’t lead to a rapidly increased glucose level. This is in your favor since it can help to regulate your metabolism. (17)

Also assisting in metabolism regulation is brown rice. Brown rice has been called “medical rice” because of its long list of potential health benefits. These benefits include the possible prevention of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. (18)

It is apparent that this vegan supplement uses evidence-based ingredients. However, the nutrient profile may be too heavy-handed for some. The recommended serving size is four scoops. This winds up being 1,230 calories, 50 grams of protein, 248 grams of carbohydrates, and around 10 grams of BCAAs. If you are not looking to bulk, consider supplementing with one to two scoops instead.

Best Creatine for Bodybuilding: Jacked Factory Creatine Monohydrate Powder

Jacked Factory Creatine Monohydrate Powder

4.5

• Number of servings: 85
• Cost per serving: $0.41
• Amount of creatine per serving: Five grams
• Flavors: Unflavored

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Pros

• Affordable when compared to other creatine powders on the market
• Made without fillers, artificial food dyes, or added sugars – one ingredient only
• Creatine monohydrate is a widely-researched form of creatine

Cons

• No flavor options (may not count as a con if unflavored is what you are looking for!)

Creatine monohydrate is the most popular form of creatine studied. Many studies have proven that supplementing with the best creatine may improve recovery time, increase endurance, boost strength, and help with building lean muscle mass. Off-season bodybuilders can maintain muscle mass by ingesting two to three grams of creatine daily. However, if you are looking to gain muscle mass, try aiming for five grams a day. (19)

Jacked Factory’s creatine monohydrate supplement provides you with those recommended five grams of creatine monohydrate per scoop. Similar to Jacked Factory’s BCAA supplement, its creatine supplement is one of the most affordable creatine powders you will find on the market. One 15-ounce tub is nearly a three-month supply.

You will not find any special flavor options for this product, but that hasn’t stopped thousands of users from supplementing with it. Most reviewers are happy it is unflavored and often report that it has high solubility. This is good news, as nobody likes a clumpy workout supplement.

Best Caffeine-Free Supplement for Bodybuilding: Legion Athletics Pulse Stim-Free Pre-Workout

Legion Pulse Stim-Free Pre-Workout

3.8

• Number of servings: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.25
• Noteworthy ingredients: Eight grams of l-citrulline dl-malate 2:1, just over 3.5 grams of beta-alanine, 2.5 grams of betaine anhydrous, and 300 milligrams of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine 
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Grape, Green Apple, Sour Candy, Strawberry Kiwi, Tropical Punch
• Third-party tested: Labdoor tested for purity

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Pros

• Reviewers report easy mixability and digestion
• Made without proprietary blends — formulation transparency is guaranteed 
• Made in an NSF-certified and cGMP-compliant facility in the United States

Cons

• Some customers struggle with the taste

For the non-adrenaline junkies out there, we recommend Legion Athletics Pulse Stim-Free Pre-Workout. As its name suggests, you will not find any stimulants within its ingredient makeup. Caffeine-free but still considered a pre-workout supplement? Yep — keep reading to find out why.

This product has eight grams of l-citrulline dl-malate, 3.6 grams of beta-alanine, 2.5 grams of betaine anhydrous, and 300 milligrams of alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (GPC). As Legion’s website suggests, the ingredients in Pulse Stim-Free are heavily supported by peer-reviewed research studies.

The addition of citrulline malate and beta-alanine may prove beneficial to your workout, as they can boost your endurance during resistance exercises such as weightlifting. (20)(21)  Betaine may improve your metabolism and increase your skeletal muscle strength. (22) Lastly, alpha-GPC may act as a cognition-enhancing agent. (23)

This third-party tested powder is made with all-natural ingredients, and Legion is honest about what it uses to create it. Reviewers are pleased with how easily this product mixes, and it gets bonus points for being easily digested. Because it lacks caffeine, unlike other popular pre-workout supplements, this powder can help you focus on your workout without the jitters or post-workout crashes.

Best Bulking Stack for Bodybuilding: CrazyBulk Bulking Stack

CrazyBulk Bulking Stack

• What's included: D-Bal, Testo-Max, DecaDuro, and Trenorol
• Cost per stack: $184.99 as of the time of this writing
• Supply quantity: One month 
• Flavors: None — sold as capsules 
• Third-party tested: cGMP-certified

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Pros

• Delivered within 24 to 48 hours of ordering 
• Free shipping in the United States and internationally 
• You save just over 20 percent when you purchase the Bulking Stack instead of buying each individual product

Cons

• Made with heavily processed ingredients such as maltodextrin

If you prefer capsules over powder, you’re in luck. Unlike other products we have reviewed, the CrazyBulk Bulking Stack comes in four different bottles with up to 120 capsules per bottle. If you work out daily, it is recommended to supplement every day with these products. Their combined ingredients have the potential to leave you with the muscle gains you have been dreaming of.

The first supplement is Testo-Max. Testo-Max is made with men in mind and includes testosterone boosters. It offers a unique combination of vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients, with some of the most noteworthy being vitamin B6 and vitamin D.

Recently, vitamin B6 has been associated with managing hormone receptors — particularly testosterone. Research suggests that an adequate B6 intake may help individuals maintain healthy testosterone levels. (24) Further research reveals that vitamin D deficiency is strongly associated with low testosterone levels. (25) Testo-Max has your back and provides you with 260% of your daily value for vitamin D.

Aim to take Trenorol and DecaDuro prior to your workout for the best results. Among other ingredients, you will find 75 milligrams of pepsin in the Trenorol supplement. Pepsin is a digestive enzyme responsible for breaking down protein. Since adequate protein absorption is crucial to increasing muscle mass, this ingredient is both helpful and unique. (26)

DecaDuro’s most prominent ingredient is wild yam root. The specific species of yam that CrazyBulk uses may help with muscle contraction and muscle DNA synthesis. (27)

To finish out your bulking stack, supplement with D-Bal post-workout. A very popular pick on CrazyBulk’s site, it has a special blend of ingredients, including 200 milligrams of ashwagandha per serving. This adaptogenic plant, which may help your body handle stress better, has been a hot topic of research for a while now because of its potential health benefits. When compared to placebo groups, studies show that men and women who supplemented with ashwagandha had increased endurance and improved muscle recovery. (28)

Unlike other products in this review, this bulk pack of supplements requires cycling to prevent any liver damage or prolonged intestinal inflammation. Be sure to consult your physician before starting any new supplement.