10 Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss in 2023

May 19, 2024

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People often associate protein powders with muscle gain. However, they can also assist people with weight loss by helping them feel full for longer.

Having enough protein can help boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and lose fat without losing muscle. This all contributes to weight management.

Below, we list some of the best protein powders for weight loss.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

This protein powder contains 21 grams (g) of plant-based protein from peas, brown rice, and chia seeds. Additionally, it contains:

Orgain states that this product is:

Additionally, this product contains no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or artificial ingredients.

People can purchase this product in 1 pound (lb) and 2 lb tub sizes or as a 10-count travel pack.

The company claims this product suits men, women, and children. It also states that people can take this protein powder as a meal replacement, smoothie booster, muscle recovery, and pre- or post-workout drink.

Read more about the best protein powders for women.

Orgain recommends that people mix the protein powder with water, milk, muffins, or cookies for an energy boost.

This gluten- and soy-free whey protein powder contains 30 g of protein per serving. It is available in three different flavors, which are available in 1 lb tubs.

Additionally, it contains:

Premier Protein state that this product is keto-friendly and contains no soy ingredients.

The company recommends people mix one scoop of powder with 6–8 ounces (oz) of water, juice, or milk. People can add the powder to energy bites, smoothies, or puddings.

People can take this product at any time of the day or post-exercise.

This whey protein powder from NOW Sports contains 24 g of protein per one-level scoop serving. It is available in 1.5 lb and 5 lb tubs.

NOW Sports claims that this protein powder is easily digested and is good for active individuals because it contains BCAAs, which help rebuild muscle fibers after workouts.

Additionally, the company states that this powder has been tested for more than 200 banned substances, that every batch is screened for potency, identity, and safety, and carries the current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) logo. This system ensures that products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards.

The company recommends adding one level scoop daily to 8 oz of cold water, milk, or juice.

This product contains per serving:

The company claims that the powder is free of:

This protein powder from Optimum Nutrition contains 100% whey protein and is gluten-free. It is available in 1 lb and 5 lb tubs.

It contains:

Additionally, it contains 5.5 g of naturally occurring BCAAs and 11 g of naturally occurring essential amino acids per serving to aid muscle recovery.

Optimum Nutrition states that people can take this protein powder before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of the day when extra protein is needed.

The manufacturer recommends people take one scoop with 6–8 oz of water or a beverage of their choice and stir for 30 seconds until the powder is dissolved. Alternatively, people can opt for a milder-tasting shake by adding 8–10 oz of liquid to the powder.

The company claims that this product has been tested for banned substances and has undergone the highest quality control measures to ensure that people feel comfortable and confident taking the product.

This protein powder from Naked contains only one ingredient, grass-fed whey protein. It is available in 1 lb and 5 lb tubs.

Naked claims that this powder contains no GMOs or soy and is gluten-free. Additionally, the product does not contain bovine growth hormones.

Naked claims that the whey is sourced from small dairy farms in Idaho and Northern California. The whey is cold-processed to ensure zero contamination from chemical detergents, synthetic additives, or heavy metals.

Naked Whey is certified Informed Choice Trusted for Sport.

Each two-scoop serving of Naked Whey protein powder provides:

People can take the powder as a pre- or post-workout shake. Alternatively, they can add it to smoothies or baking.

This whey protein isolate from GNC provides a high amount of protein per serving, but it also contains 200 mg of caffeine, 6 g of fiber, and 5 mg of piperine (black pepper extract). These ingredients may help provide better mental focus, boost exercise performance, and aid in weight loss.

GNC claims that this powder not only aids with weight loss, but it can also be helpful when people hit a plateau in their training and need a little extra boost.

In addition to the powder’s high protein content, every two scoops provide:

GNC states that this powder is suitable for people following a low carb diet.

Thorne Research claims this whey protein isolate powder is NSF Certified for Sport. Additionally, it claims that the powder can aid muscle repair after training and injury. People may also wish to take it as a meal replacement.

The company claims its manufacturing facility complies with CGMP standards and is third-party tested. Additionally, it claims that its products only contain ingredients and flavorings from natural sources free of common allergens.

People can mix this protein powder with water or beverages or add it to smoothies or shakes.

Thorne Research recommends people mix one scoop of the powder with at least 8 oz of water, juice, or preferred beverage daily.

Each one scoop serving provides:

Ora states that this organic plant-based protein powder is made from all-natural ingredients and is vegan-friendly.

The powder contains 19 superfoods for added micronutrients and all essential amino acids. This ensures that people get the best recovery from their workout routine.

Each two scoop serving provides:

This product contains no added sugars and no sugar alcohols. Instead, the powder is sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extracts.

The company states that this powder is suitable for people with lactose intolerance because it contains plant-based protein from organic peas, organic rice, and organic superfoods such as sacha inchi, acai, pomegranate, kale, and turmeric.

Additionally, it contains digestive enzymes such as cellulase, which, in theory helps break down hard-to-digest plant cell walls. This helps maximize protein absorption.

Ora states that this product contains whole foods and non-GMO ingredients sourced from the USDA organic certified farms.

This product is free of gluten, dairy, fillers, and artificial ingredients and is third-party tested.

Ora recommends people add two scoops of the protein powder to a shaker bottle with 1.5 cups of oat, almond, or a personal choice of milk. It can also be added to smoothies together with frozen fruit.

NuFyx Heavenly Powder is 100% organic plant-based and only contains the following six ingredients:

NuFyx claims that this powder has no chalky or artificial taste, and the pea protein aids to avoid bloating.

Each two scoop serving provides:

Its low carb content may also make it suitable for people following a keto diet.

This product is available to purchase as a single packet, 10 packets, or 20 or 40 scoops.

NuFyx recommends adding one to two protein powder scoops to water or plant milk. People can also add it to oatmeal or overnight oats and recipes.

This product is certified USDA organic.

This whey protein powder from Dymatize contains 25 g of protein, 5.5 g of BCAAs, and 2.7 g of leucine per serving. Additionally, it is low in fat and sugar.

Dymatize claims this product is scientifically formulated with fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate, making it a good partner for muscle growth and strength.

This product is gluten-free and contains less than 1 g of lactose per serving.

It is Informed Choice Trusted for Sport certified.

Each one scoop serving provides:

Dymatize recommends people add one scoop to 5–6 oz of water, milk, or their favorite beverage and mix thoroughly. People can take this powder as a pre-or post-workout supplement or a high protein drink at any time during the day.

Below is a comparison table of the 10 best protein powders for weight loss in this article.

People may wish to consider the following factors when purchasing a protein powder for weight loss.

When choosing a protein powder, people should choose one that is low in calories and carbohydrates and high in protein. Some people may avoid products with additives and some manufacturers may add sugars and artificial ingredients to make the powder enjoyable.

People should consider the protein source, as this determines the quality of the protein powder. Some sources, like whey protein, are complete proteins because they contain all the essential amino acids. Other sources, such as plant-based proteins, may not be as complete, but will be a more suitable source for vegans.

Some research shows whey protein and pea protein produce similar outcomes. However, research is still ongoing in this area.

People should choose a protein powder that fits their dietary needs. For example, vegans may select a vegan-friendly protein powder containing plant-based proteins like peas, hemp, or rice.

People looking for a dairy-free protein powder may choose one with dairy-free ingredients such as soy or pea protein. Alternatively, those who follow a gluten-free diet may wish to consider gluten-free protein powders.

People may wish to choose a protein powder brand with various flavors. Others may wish to look for an unflavored powder.

The texture is also an important factor, especially if a person is looking for a powder to mix with other ingredients. Some powders may be gritty or chalky, while others have a creamier texture and may be preferable.

When choosing a protein powder, people may wish to read customer reviews. This can give them an idea of the quality of the product and how well it works for other people. For example, some people may have experienced side effects from a particular product.

The price of protein powder can vary depending on the brand and product quality. People may wish to compare prices before purchasing and look for any money-saving promotions or discounts. Some companies may offer taster sachets of its protein powder so people can try them before investing in a tub.

People should check the product’s quality before purchasing. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has CGMPs that companies must follow to ensure their products’ purity, identity, and composition.

These CGMPs prevent the manufacturers from adding the wrong ingredients to the products. It also reduces the chance of contamination or improper labeling.

Some independent organizations put their products through third-party testing. This shows the consumer that the product contains the ingredients listed on the label and is contaminant-free.

A 2020 study shows that nutrient-dense protein shakes twice daily improved participants’ weight loss and body fat. However, it must be noted that participants in this study were following a calorie-reduced diet.

However, people must also focus on eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking protein for best results. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week.

There are three main ways protein may help with weight loss:

Protein is one of the most satiating macronutrients. It changes the levels of specific hormones that manage people’s appetite, cholecystokinin CCK, and glucagon-like peptide 1 GLP-1.

Proteins increase the levels of these hormones and decrease levels of the hunger hormone, ghrelin. This helps keep people’s appetite balanced throughout the day, thus reducing the urge to snack.

A person’s metabolism is responsible for converting calories into energy. Muscle mass is the main factor in a person’s metabolic rate. Consuming more protein and regular exercise may help build muscle mass. Therefore, more muscle mass may result in a healthier metabolism and burning more calories.

If a person feels fuller for longer, they are less likely to eat more food than they need, keeping their body in a calorie deficit.

A person’s body uses more energy when digesting protein than other macronutrients such as fats and carbs. This means that people may also burn more calories and body fat.

Researchers refer to this as the thermic effect of protein.

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People should not replace a balanced diet with protein shakes. As with all foods, too much protein may add too many calories to a person’s diet and cause weight gain.

Consuming protein shakes may make maintaining a calorie deficit easier by managing hunger but taken on their own, they will not help a person lose weight.

Balance is the key to successful weight loss, and other factors must be considered. These include the following:

This involves a lifestyle with healthy eating patterns and regular physical activity, although sleep, age, genetics, diseases, medications, and environments can also contribute to weight management.

The CDC recommends that gradual, steady weight loss of about 1–2 lb per week is more likely to sustain weight loss than quickly losing weight.

A healthy eating plan should include eating:

Food should be low in added sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. Additionally, calorie consumption should stay within the person’s daily calorie needs.

People should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week.

Before starting any weight loss journey, people should consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to ensure that their chosen diet is sustainable and compatible with any health conditions they may have.

Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding protein powders for weight loss.

There is no one-brand-fits-all protein powder for weight loss. When purchasing a protein powder, people should choose a high quality product containing all the essential amino acids. Additionally, it should be high in protein but low in fats, carbohydrates, and calories.

High-quality protein powder will help people lose weight if it contains a high amount of protein and is low in fats, carbohydrates, and calories.

The type of protein people choose is a matter of choice and dietary requirements. For example, someone with no intolerances or allergens may choose a whey protein or casein protein powder. Both are high in nutrients, boost the metabolism, and promote weight loss.

People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet may choose a plant-based protein powder. These protein powders are lower in calories and fats than their animal-based counterparts.

Research reports that plant protein may offer similar benefits to whey protein and that the amount of protein is more important than the type.

Yes, protein powder can aid in weight loss if people combine it with a calorie-controlled diet and exercise program.

Protein powder may help people lose weight with a healthy lifestyle, such as healthy eating and regular exercise.

When purchasing a protein powder, people should always opt for one that has been third-party tested and contains all the necessary nutrients and amino acids.

A person should consult a healthcare professional or dietitian before purchasing a protein powder and commencing any weight loss program to ensure that both are compatible with their health conditions.