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Getting enough daily protein is important for your overall health, and if you’re having a hard time squeezing in the recommended amount, protein powders can help you easily increase your intake.
Although supplementing with protein powders may not be advisable for everyone, research suggests protein supplementation can assist with increasing muscle mass, enhancing athletic performance and even supporting healthy weight loss.
Once you’ve decided you’re a good candidate for protein supplementation, the amount of available protein powders currently on the market can make choosing one feel like a daunting task. To highlight the best from the rest, the Forbes Health editorial team consulted with a panel of accredited nutrition experts, who gave us their top recommendations. Star ratings were assigned solely by the editorial team, based on factors like cost, amount of protein per serving and third-party certification.
Note: Star rankings are determined solely by the editorial team, and all product costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.
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The Forbes Health editorial team prioritizes integrity in all of our vitamin and supplement rankings. Our rankings are based on expertise and professional recommendations from medical and nutrition experts and are free from conflicts of interest. We carefully fact check the information featured on our rankings and are committed to producing rankings and supplemental content about dietary supplements that readers can trust. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our supplement methodology for the rankings below.
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Partner Offers feature brands who paid Forbes Health to appear at the top of our list. While this may influence where their products or services appear on our site, it in no way affects our ratings, which are based on thorough research, solid methodologies and expert advice. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or servicesLegion Plant Protein Powder
On Legion's Website
This product is a good fit for athletes due to the fact that it’s Informed Sport certified to ensure the absence of substances prohibited in sports. Additionally, “whey protein powder is optimally absorbed and perfect to use post-workout,” says Toby Amidor, a registered dietitian, nutrition expert, food safety consultant and Forbes Health Advisory Board member. “It can be easily added to smoothies, smoothie bowls or into batters, or even ice pops.”
At roughly $0.95 per serving, this is one of the most affordable protein powders on our list when it comes to servings per container.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
“I like this product because it has a clean ingredient list (no artificial colors, sweeteners or flavors), a healthy dose of 24 grams of protein in the form of mainly whey protein isolate, 4 grams of fiber, no added sugar and very little fat,” says Melina Jampolis, M.D., an internist, board-certified physician nutrition specialist and Forbes Health Advisory Board member. Another reason this particular protein is recommended by Dr. Jampolis is the fact that it contains probiotics, which can help support digestive health.
Garden of Life says its Sport Grass-Fed Whey Protein is also completely antibiotic free.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
If you’re looking to minimize carb intake and avoid added sugars, Taylor Wallace, Ph.D., principal and CEO of the Think Healthy Group and a member of the Forbes Health Advisory Board, recommends Optimum Nutrition 100% Gold Standard Whey. He says this powder “makes for a great protein shake” and enjoys the chocolate and vanilla flavors. Dr. Wallace also notes that it’s available in a large bag at Costco, which helps keep the cost down.
If you like this brand for its protein powder, it also offers pre-workout supplementsand energy drinks.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
“Whey protein is one of the most efficient types of protein in terms of grams per scoop, but often it comes from unhealthy sources,” explains Myles Spar, M.D., a specialist in integrative men’s health and member of the Forbes Health Advisory Board. “Vital Nutrients powder is free of bovine growth hormone and antibiotic residue with minimal processing, making it healthier and more bioavailable.”
This protein powder includes immunoglobulins for immune system support.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
Available in a wide variety of regular and specialty flavors, Orgain’s Organic Protein uses pea, brown rice and chia seeds to provide 21 grams of vegan protein per serving. Not only is this protein powder a good option for everyone from athletes to kids, explains Amidor, the Orgain brand itself has options for a variety of protein needs, from plant-based to whey. The original Organic Protein Powder, however, is both vegan and dairy free.
Our experiential review of Orgain’s Organic Protein found it to be tasty, although slightly difficult to fully mix into liquid.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
According to Dr. Jampolis, this particular Orgain Organics option (protein plus superfoods) is a smart foundation for a meal replacement. The plant-based fats (4.5 grams per serving) incorporated into a serving should help people feel satiated for longer, and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K, explains Dr. Jampolis. Additionally, “it’s a good source of many B vitamins, an excellent source of vitamin C and an excellent source of plant-based iron, which is important for women,” she says.
The vitamins in Orgain come from a blend of pea protein, organic greens and grasses and organic veggies and herbs.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
In addition to including a greens blend that’s comprised of alfalfa powder, spinach powder, broccoli powder and kale powder, as well as the vegan protein staples pea protein and brown rice protein, Vega’s blend also includes sacha inchi protein, which is a highly nutritious plant originating in the Amazonian jungle. Dr. Jampolis recommends this protein especially for individuals who may not get enough protein through their daily diet.
Our reviewer found Vega Protein Powder to have a nice taste, but had concerns about the lack of third-party testing. Read our full review here.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
“This product works great in a smoothie,” advises Dr. Wallace. “It tastes really good, especially if you add half of a banana to your protein shake.” He also likes that Bloom is low in cholesterol and contains no added sugars. It’s also low in carbs, so it would work for an individual following a low-carb diet, he adds.
Bloom contains digestive enzymes, which the company says helps make the product easier to digest and absorb.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
“This vegan powder has more protein per gram than most vegan supplements,” says Dr. Spar. “It comes in great flavors and has other ingredients for athletes such as branched chain amino acids and tart cherry, which helps with recovery and building muscle.” It also contains 30% of the daily recommended value of iron and 20% of calcium.
Vega Sport comes in large or extra-large tub sizes and in convenient single-serving packets.
On Transparent Labs' WebsiteHave you considered Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate?
Packed with pure, high-quality protein, this game-changing formula is meticulously crafted to elevate your fitness journey and help you reach new heights. Here’s why we chose it:
Supports recovery and muscle growth, while promoting overall health and longevity
Contains 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop
Sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass finished American dairy cattle
On Transparent Labs' Website
“This powder has no added sugar and a complete amino acid profile in a vegetarian formula,” notes Dr. Spar. “It is one of the most rigorously tested for cleanliness and purity.” Dr. Spar recommends Ritual “for those wanting the highest quality in terms of purity with no added sugar to help with weight loss while maintaining lean body mass.” Ritual is free of gluten and all major allergens and is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s tested for over 250 banned substances.
Our reviewer appreciated Ritual’s smooth taste and liked how it blended so easily, but had concerns about the size of the bag included in their monthly subscription. Read our full review here.
Our Best Protein Powders of 2023 ranking is determined by a Forbes Health panel of experts. They provided their product recommendations, along with reasons they stand out.
Diet / Nutrition
Food / Nutrition / Food Safety
Integrative Medicine / Men’s Health
To determine the best protein powders of 2023, the Forbes Health editorial team consulted four accredited nutrition experts who provided their product recommendations. Recommendation highlights included the benefits of whey protein, the nutritional perks of pea protein, how different powders work as meal replacement options, if they were appropriate for vegans and more. Star ratings were then determined solely by the editorial team, factoring in cost, protein per serving and third party certification.
Read more about our vitamins and supplements review methodology.
Protein powders are dietary supplements designed to increase your intake of protein. Once marketed primarily to athletes as a way to build muscle and aid in post-workout recovery, these products have garnered appeal with a wider consumer audience in recent years.
Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in human health—it helps build and repair muscle tissue, and it can provide energy, too. Dietary protein can come from plant or animal sources, such as meat, seafood, legumes, nuts and seeds. However, many people turn to protein powders for a convenient and concentrated dose of protein, often after exercising. Many protein powders contain other nutrients, too, such as added vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids or fiber, and can often be mixed with milk or water to make a shake or smoothie.
Protein powders can be used to supplement the amount of protein received from whole foods. These powders can offer different health benefits, but are typically used for their ability to enhance muscle and strength.
Protein itself offers benefits for the immune system and is needed for the proper functioning of organs like the heart, brain and skin.
Protein is an essential nutrient for maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting organs like your brain, heart and skin. While most people eat a sufficient amount of protein through diet, research suggests that consuming protein powder may aid in increasing muscle growth, strength and lean body mass, especially for older individuals and those who exercise.
Sources of protein found in most protein powders can be divided into two categories: animal-based and plant-based.
Animal-based protein powders are often made of either whey or casein. Whey comes from the translucent liquid part of milk while casein comes from the top solid portion of milk. Both contain all nine essential amino acids. Other animal-based protein powders are made with egg white protein.
Meanwhile, plant-based protein powders typically include proteins from soy, peas, hemp, rice, chia seeds and/or pumpkin seeds.
If you opt for a whey protein, consider the form you want to use. In addition to whole protein powder, options include:
About 80% of cow’s milk is made of casein protein, while whey protein makes up the rest. Casein is a slower digesting protein, and because of this, is often taken before bed or before lengthy periods of fasting. Because it takes the body longer to digest casein protein than whey, casein is often a better choice for a meal replacement. Casein protein also contains lactose, which may be an important factor for those with allergies and sensitivities.
Extracted from green and yellow peas, pea protein is lactose-free and safe for people with milk and dairy allergies or sensitivities. The three types of pea protein extracts include isolates, concentrates and hydrolysates.
While pea protein can offer a boost for athletic performance, it also has the potential to provide other health benefits. Research into pea protein isolate specifically has found that it may assist with lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Those who follow vegan diets may have a tougher time getting the necessary amount of protein, which can make protein supplementation through the use of protein powders important. In addition to pea protein powders, other popular ingredients in vegetarian and vegan protein powders include quinoa and amaranth. Vegetable proteins are incomplete proteins, so choosing a blend of plant proteins, or mutually supplementing, could be the way to go to ensure you’re getting all the amino acids your body needs. One example of this supplementation is mixing bean and rice protein powders together in one smoothie.
Produced from dehydrated egg whites, egg white protein powders are low calorie supplements that provide a more easily-digestible and complete source of protein. In addition to helping to promote muscle growth and strength, research indicates that egg white protein powder offers a host of other benefits, including helping to lower cholesterol and improving muscle fatigue and liver function.
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Protein powders should be used as directed by the manufacturer or retailer where you purchased the product. You should first check the bag or container that your powder comes in to ensure your product is not expired and that it hasn’t been opened or tampered with in any way. You can then turn to the nutrition label, which will likely offer a serving size suggestion. For example, you might be directed to take one to two scoops of powder, many of which come with a scooper for ease of use.
Protein powder labels commonly direct users to mix it into a smoothie, water or another preferred drink of choice. Some brands advertise that their powders can also be combined with food, like a baked dish.
While commonly mixed with water, many protein powders can also be combined with your choice of milk, juice or other beverages. Another popular combination is adding protein powder to smoothies.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. However, this recommendation is based on the minimum amount of protein necessary to meet basic nutritional needs, meaning some individuals may need to consume more than the RDA. Additionally, the amount of protein needed per day will fluctuate depending on an individual’s age, sex and level of activity.
For older adults and individuals seeking to increase muscle growth, research suggests that consuming one-and-a-half to two times as much protein as the RDA may promote an increase in muscle mass.
While older research previously pointed to the theory that consuming a protein shake directly after exercising was ideal for building muscle, newer research suggests that this timing may not be as necessary as many thought.
According to a smaller 2017 study that divided 21 young men into two groups—one group that consumed protein before resistance training and one group that consumed it after—the timing of protein consumption did not seem to matter, as both groups had similar muscle development[1]Schoenfeld BJ, Aragon A, Wilborn C, Urbina SL, Hayward SE, Krieger J. Pre- versus post-exercise protein intake has similar effects on muscular adaptations. PeerJ. 2017;1(5). . An earlier study from 2006 echoed the same conclusion, finding a very small difference between strength gains and muscle mass in those who consumed a protein shake before or after training[2]Candow DG, Chilibeck PD, Facci M, Abeysekara S, Zello GA. Protein supplementation before and after resistance training in older men. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2006;97(5). . Both studies support the idea that protein consumption often depends more on an individual’s needs and tolerance than timing.
Protein powders do have an expiration date, which will likely be visible on the packaging of most products.
Manufacturers and brands of these products often recommend storing them in a cool or room-temperature area. One study found that lower temperatures can extend the shelf-life of whey protein specifically, while heat can alter or damage it[3]Tunick MH, Thomas-Gahring A, Van Hekken DL, et al. Physical and chemical changes in whey protein concentrate stored at elevated temperature and humidity. J Dairy Sci. 2016;99(3):2372-2383. .
Adequate protein intake—about 50 grams a day for people eating a 2,000-calorie daily diet—provides energy for your body and supports healthy growth, immune function and eyesight, among other essential processes. To aid training, athletes may need twice as much protein as individuals with a less active lifestyle.
When trying to meet these nutritional needs, protein powder can be beneficial, especially for on-the-go moments, according to Kelly E. Powers, a registered dietitian in San Francisco. “Several protein powders have added vitamins and minerals, making them nutrition insurance,” she says. Aside from the convenience factor, research suggests protein powders may also offer the following benefits[4]Karlund A, Gomez-Gallego C, Turpeinen A, et al. Protein Supplements and Their Relation with Nutrition, Microbiota Composition and Health: Is More Protein Always Better for Sportspeople?. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):829. [5]Pasiakos S, McLellan T, Lieberman H. The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review. Sports Medicine. 2015 Jan;45(1):111-31. :
But Cara Harbstreet, a registered dietitian working in sports nutrition in Kansas City, Kansas, cautions against overly relying on protein powders, issuing a reminder that the best way to achieve proper protein intake is by eating whole foods.
“For most people, there’s little direct harm in consuming protein powders, and there can be a time and a place for the convenience and simplicity they offer,” says Harbstreet. “Depending on lifestyle, budget and performance or training goals, [protein powders] can be one of many useful tools.”
However, she adds that protein powders carry a risk of heavy metal contamination. In fact, one study found 40% of 133 protein powder products tested had elevated levels of heavy metals[6]Bandara SB, Towle KM, Monnot AD. A human health risk assessment of heavy metal ingestion among consumers of protein powder supplements. Toxicol Rep. 2020;7:1255-1262. . Finding a brand that uses third-party testing for its products may ease this concern. Additionally, regularly consuming more protein than necessary can come with its own set of risks, namely an increased risk of kidney stones.
A 2021 review also found chronic use of whey protein supplementation without professional guidance can lead to adverse health effects, particularly on liver and kidney function[7]Vasconcelos QDJS, Bachur TPR, Aragão GF. Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2021;46(1):27-33. . Experts also note that the additional calories from protein powders can add up quickly, potentially leading to weight gain.
“Another consideration for collegiate and elite athletes is the potential for banned substances in protein powders or other supplements,” says Harbstreet. “This can pose a risk to eligibility if an athlete is subjected to drug testing.”
If you’re considering adding a protein powder to your daily routine, ask your physician or a registered dietitian for help in determining the best and healthiest option for you.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. However, individual protein needs vary depending on factors such as personal health history, age, sex and level of activity.
Research indicates that healthy adults can tolerate up to 3.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Prolonged consumption of high protein (more than 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight) may cause digestive, renal and vascular issues and is not recommended.
While protein powder can aid in muscle growth and recovery in athletes and individuals who exercise, other circumstances in which a person may benefit from consuming protein supplements include:
If you’re considering adding a protein powder to your diet, consult with your doctor to determine the best supplement for your needs.
When choosing a protein powder, Harbstreet recommends paying particular attention to the product’s certification(s). There are no standards for labeling, she says, so going with an item tested by a third party can offer peace of mind and make for a safer, healthier product.
“To me, this is the best indication of high quality and lower/limited contamination or ‘filler’ products,” says Harbstreet. “It’s a red flag for me if a brand uses a term like ‘proprietary blend’ without detailing what it contains. That’s a safety concern for things like heavy metals, botanicals and other ingredients that could potentially interact with other foods or medications.”
Whether you choose a plant-based or animal-based protein source is a matter of personal preference, she adds.
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Protein powder can be found at your local vitamin and supplements stores such as GNC or The Vitamin Shoppe, as well as retail chains like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart and many grocery stores. You can also shop each store’s corresponding website if online shopping is more convenient.
If you’re already set on the powder for you, you can visit your chosen brand’s website. And for access to an even wider selection of powders, you can shop online at Amazon.
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Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate sourced from 100% grass-fed and contains highest protein-by-weight ratio, 28 grams of protein per 34 gram scoop, to support recovery and muscle growth while promoting overall health.
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| Product | company_logo | Forbes Health Ratings | forbes_advisor_rating_image | View More | learn_more_cta_below_text | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOW Whey Protein Isolate Powder | | 5.0 |  | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Nutrition-Protein-Isolate-Unflavored/dp/B0015AQL1Q?&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=9950df7e727c2f7a60e484d348dc2de8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Garden of Life Sport Grass-Fed Whey | | 5.0 |  | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Garden-Life-Certified-Protein-Chocolate/dp/B01MQRNWDF?crid=MKN7JYOU4GVI&keywords=Garden+of+Life+Sport+Grass-Fed+Whey&qid=1665565766&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjYyIiwicXNhIjoiMS4zMiIsInFzcCI6IjEuNTAifQ%3D%3D&rdc=1&s=grocery&sprefix=garden+of+life+sport+grass-fed+whey%2Cgrocery%2C686&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzSVFQVVRKVUQyM0VZJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODM4NzYxMjFUSE5JR1hVQTc5JmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAzNDA0ODQxNk02RU4zSjRHWVZUJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ%3D%3D&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=4f3d4e173bc46b7f8f599ad0250d69a7&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Optimum Nutrition 100% Gold Standard Whey | | 5.0 | | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Optimum-Nutrition-Standard-Protein-Chocolate/dp/B000QSNYGI?crid=H9Z5TR9SA377&keywords=Optimum%2BNutrition%2BGold%2BStandard%2B100%25%2BWhey&qid=1674497514&rdc=1&sprefix=optimum%2Bnutrition%2Bgold%2Bstandard%2B100%25%2Bwhey%2Caps%2C137&sr=8-3-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFPR1U4MDRLUEY5TjEmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzNzY0NjE2M05IOU02M0tGSDUmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDQ2MTU4M1lTN0VVTUU0QUhYOSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=a6996dfeb05ff17818ea89007f2adc24&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| ProWhey Protein Powder by Vital Nutrients | | 4.8 | | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Vital-Nutrients-ProWhey-Beverage-Vegetarian/dp/B001UA2L10?crid=1HKUQVSEOU6SU&keywords=Pro+Whey+Protein+Powder+By+Vital+Nutrients&qid=1680288465&sprefix=pro+whey+protein+powder+by+vital+nutrients%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=3628a4e129e8262552006d4ba2a1e9ae&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Orgain Organic Protein Powder | | 4.5 |  | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Orgain-Organic-Protein-Powder-Chocolate/dp/B00J074W94?crid=3KHGUCSN40SBN&keywords=Orgain+Organic+Protein+Powder&qid=1685707660&rdc=1&sprefix=orgain+organic+protein+powder%2Caps%2C782&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFUSTc3MzFFNEI4R0EmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA1Nzk5NTMxUkFRTE5HU0YwMkFUJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAwODExNjEyT0FEOVpFNVZFQ1laJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ%3D%3D&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=7d4ca5b646d8cb22917a76de8cadd1fd&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein + Superfoods Powder | | 4.5 | | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Orgain-Organic-Protein-Superfoods-Vanilla/dp/B07PXNNFGT?crid=328GJSW9CX213&keywords=Orgain+Organic+Plant-Based+Protein+%2B+Superfoods+Powder&qid=1685707733&sprefix=orgain+organic+plant-based+protein+%2B+superfoods+powder%2Caps%2C595&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=7e2b2a62b5c2f638fb96c3794e43ccde&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Vega Protein and Greens | | 4.5 | | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Vega-Protein-Greens-Vanilla-Servings/dp/B079P7BFYL?crid=23V8DNEC3UU4L&keywords=Vega+Protein+and+Greens&qid=1686045079&rdc=1&sprefix=vega+protein+and+greens%2Caps%2C1073&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=66cd4c99176b9eeac3b24793c528f99f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Bloom Whey Protein Isolate (Chocolate) |  | 4.3 | | Shop Now | On Bloom Nutrition's Website | https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2124652&u=2719178&m=129854&urllink=bloomnu%2Ecom%2Fproducts%2Fprotein&afftrack= |
| Vega Sport Vegan Protein Powder | | 4.3 | | Shop Now | On Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Vega-Premium-Protein-Vanilla-Packaging/dp/B016D9IGRA?crid=5NE19SCUSW75&keywords=Vega+Sport+Vegan+Protein+Powder&qid=1686045537&rdc=1&sprefix=vega+sport+vegan+protein+powder%2Caps%2C633&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzSkNSQTg0OVRKSDBFJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDk4Mzc0QzYwN1paUTY0V0ZFJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAyMzExNjQxUkRQVEhCWEU3QUNVJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ%3D%3D&linkCode=ll1&tag=forbeshealth-20&linkId=b0320f6ccb108083da6988ccbe1bc1ca&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl |
| Ritual Essential Protein | | 4.2 |  | Shop Now | On Ritual's Website | https://ritual.sjv.io/c/1955282/1748938/17139?subid1=P1197674730_1696411656854750568&subid2=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forbes.com%2Fhealth%2Fbody%2Fbest-protein-powders%2F&subid3=Health" rel=”nofollow” |
The right protein powder for you will depend on factors like age and weight, as well as what your goals are. Some may want to lose or gain weight, and others may want to build muscle.
Because the recommended amount of daily protein for adults, 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, was developed from studies that only included male participants, some experts note that this measurement should be looked at as more of a guideline than a rule. Furthermore, additional research is needed in the space to determine what the “best” protein powders might be for men and women respectively.
The best brand of protein powder will depend on factors such as the type of protein included (animal protein vs. plant protein), cost and personal preference.
Popular types of protein powders include whey, casein, egg white, and plant-based proteins. The healthiest protein powders will include ingredients listed on the label, are free of heavy metals and have been third-party tested for safety and efficacy.
Protein powder can assist with weight loss, weight gain or weight management depending on how you incorporate it into your diet. Protein powder for weight loss will contain a relatively lower amount of protein than those intended for building muscle.
Protein powders can assist with building muscle, athletic performance and other potential health benefits, however, since the FDA does not weigh in on the claims of protein powder manufacturers, it’s hard to be totally sure about what you’re consuming. Additionally, some powders contain a high amount of added sugars and calories and research is limited on the long-term effects of supplementing with protein powder.
Because protein powder is classified as a dietary supplement, the FDA does not regulate it with the same standards as food or medicine. Third-party testing by independent organizations can evaluate whether a supplement’s contents include ingredients listed on the label and check for potentially harmful properties.
Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.
Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.
Lizzie Duszynski-Goodman is a journalist living in the Midwest with her husband and two young children. Her work explores the intersection of mental health, wellness and parenting. She is the former managing editor of Pregnancy Magazine. When not behind her computer, you can find her on a yoga mat or with her nose in a good book.
Sarah is an experienced writer and editor enthusiastic about helping readers live their healthiest and happiest lives. Before joining Forbes Health, Sarah worked as a writer for various digital publications including LendingTree, theSkimm, CNBC and Bankrate. When she isn’t writing or editing, you can find Sarah with her nose in a book or enjoying the outdoors with her French bulldog, Honey.
