Best Protein Powders in 2021
Protein powders are a quick and easy way to naturally build large and healthy muscles by boosting your essential micronutrients. They nourish muscle cells to help stimulate growth and development naturally. They also aid in tissue repair and increase hormone and enzyme production, which elevate your health even further.
Whether you are a professional workout enthusiast or are just getting started, the quality of the protein powder that you buy makes a difference. While elements such as taste and cost are important, make sure that the quality of nutrition is superior before anything else. Look for a protein powder that taste great to you, will deliver your desired results, and is made up of natural and safe ingredients. While synthetic additives such as steroids prove effective at muscle growth, they are ultimately harmful to your health. You should also avoid products with additives such as preservatives or artificial colors, as they can harm your health over an extended use of time.
List of the Best Protein Powders of 2021
- Weight
- Protein
- Protein per serving
- Flavored
- Weight2 pounds
- ProteinWhey
- Protein per serving27g
- FlavoredYes
- Weight4 pounds
- ProteinWhey
- Protein per serving24.0g
- FlavoredYes
- Weight2 pounds
- ProteinPlant
- Protein per serving21.0g
- FlavoredYes
- Weight3 pounds
- ProteinWhey
- Protein per serving25.0g
- FlavoredYes
- Weight16 ounces
- ProteinHemp seed
- Protein per serving15.0g
- FlavoredYes
1. Dioxyme Grass-Fed Ultra Whey
For faster and healthier weight loss, ultra whey supplements such as Dioxyme are a top choice since they are safe and effective. In addition, they induce natural weight loss without breaking down muscles or causing a jittery, irritating side effect.
One of its major selling points is the whey protein that is used. It is a rich source of bioactive peptides, which help with mental function, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. It is also rich in antioxidants such as glutathione, which accelerates recovery after a workout and maintains lean muscle mass naturally. Finally, because Dioxyme has cold pressed, grass feed whey, you get an ample amount of digestive enzymes for your metabolism without exposure to antibiotics, hormones, and other irritants. Apart from losing fat, you will notice a change in the way your body feels when you eliminate the toxins.
Dioxyme is a fast-acting product that comes tested and approved by the world-class sports anti-doping labs. Therefore, if you are a professional athlete, you can use this product worry-free. It comes in many flavors (vanilla, chocolate, coconut, and cinnamon), each with detailed instructions of how to prepare it at home.
What We Like
- Nutritious whey
- Anti-doping approved
- Fast acting formula
- Multiple flavor choices
Highlights
Dioxyme is a nutritious product that will help you to lose weight quickly and naturally. It is tasty, very easy to prepare, and 100% safe.
2. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Whey is a protein, packed with minerals and amino acids, that induce natural muscle growth. It is an excellent supplement if you are wanting to build larger, healthier muscles. Optimum Nutrition will help you achieve this goal with its 100% whey powder which consist of 24-grams of blended proteins (whey peptides, whey protein concentrate, and whey protein isolates). You will be getting a protein-dense product that supports the growth of lean muscle mass naturally. It is also a rich source of BCAAs, which also help build strong muscles.
Optimum Nutrition is a 100% gluten-free product making it perfect for those with allergies. The carbohydrate and fat content are low (3-4g and 1-3g, respectively), and packaged in a double-rich chocolate flavor. However, you have 20 other flavors from which to choose, each with an instantized formula that mixes easily with water without clumping. The powder is ideal for professional athletes as it lacks banned substances.
What We Like
- 100% gluten-free
- 100% whey powder
- Low fat and sugar content
- rich source of BCAAs
- 24g mixed proteins
Highlights
Optimum Nutrition is a rich source of blended proteins and BCAAs, which have a positive impact on muscle growth and strength. It is low in sugar and fat, and easy to prepare at home.
If you want to add probiotic supplements to your routine, you can find some of the best brands here.
3. Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
Orgain Organic Protein is a plant-based protein powder that meet criteria for vegans. However, non-vegans can benefit from it as well, as it is nutritious, safe, and most importantly, effective. The 2.03-pound organic protein powder is 100% sugar-free and gluten-free. It is also Kosher free and has a low net carb formula that is suitable for those on the keto or paleo diet. With this brand, you are getting one of the best protein powders in the market at an affordable price.
Orgain Organics is a protein-dense product that offers approximately 21 grams of chia seed, brown rice, and pea proteins per serving. It is safe for men, women, and children. It is also easy to mix with milk and water and makes tasty brownies and muffins, which is a great way to get some extra protein into your picky eaters.
What We Like
- 21 grams of plant protein
- Organic ingredient
- Safe for most people
- Easy to prepare
Highlights
Orgain Organic Protein will help you to build healthy muscles while keeping the “bad stuff” from your system. It is protein-dense (21g per serving), non-GMO, and easy to prepare at home.
4. Isopure Protein Powder
Natural proteins from foods such as grass-fed beef and wild-caught fish are the best for muscle building. However, to turbo-boost their efficacy, you will also need a premium supplement such as Isopure. The 3-pound pack available is large and contains a nutritious blend of 100% whey protein that supports healthy muscle growth. It also supports ketogenic macros and lacks lactose, glucose, and additives such as sweeteners, flavors, and artificial colors. If you are allergic to such products, you can use Isopure every day without health concerns.
Isopure Protein Powder is a versatile product that you can prepare at home in many ways. You can blend it with water, milk, or any of your favorite drinks to make a smoothie. You can also mix it with soups and bake it into cookies and brownies, as the powder is unflavored.
What We Like
- Unflavored powder
- Glucose and lactose-free
- Easy to prepare
- Long shelf life
- 100% whey protein
- 25g per serving
Highlights
With Isopure, you get up to 25g of 100% whey protein per serving, which induces faster muscle growth. It is 100% safe for most people, as it lacks additives such as sweeteners.
5. Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Hemp Seed Protein Powder
Derived from cold-pressed hemp seed, Nutiva Organic is a nutritious protein powder that is a rich source of fatty acids and edestin. One serving provides about 15 grams of raw organic protein, 12 grams of fiber, and no saturated or trans fats. It also has a deliciously light and nutty flavor condensed in a smooth powder formula that is easy to prepare at home. You can blend it with yogurt, shakes, or smoothies without the powder clumping. You can also consume it raw or add it to a paleo or whole food recipe for brownies and snacks. Finally, you can use it for pre/post-workout, as it is a rich source of omega-3 Alpha Linoleic Acid (ALA) and omega 6 Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA). The quality of this protein is impressive.
Nutiva Organic is one of the safest products in this niche as its production process is top-notch. The manufacturer does not use hexane or additives in the mix to boost its value. It also lacks preservatives and sugar and contains only USDA-certified organic ingredients.
What We Like
- Naturally extracted formula
- Rich in Omega fatty acids
- Easy to prepare at home
- 12g of proteins per serving
Highlights
The naturally extracted formula of Nutiva Organic is a good source of protein for fitness enthusiasts and newbies alike. The powder is 100% safe and has a delicious nutty flavor.
For flavor-averted consumers, you can learn about some of the best unflavored protein powders here.
6. Ascent Native Fuel Whey Protein Powder – Chocolate
Ascent Native comes in a large 5-pound package with 54 servings of a delicious, whey protein formula. Unlike some over-processed brands that taste like cardboard, Ascent contains natural whey (100%) with a smooth chocolate flavor. Each scoop offers 25g protein plus naturally occurring BCCAAs (5.7g), which boost muscle strength and growth.
If you are considering supplementing your protein intake, the quality of the product you buy should be top-notch. Ascent Native Fuel, for instance, is 100% natural, which makes it suitable for the health of men and women. It does not have artificial ingredients that might irritate or harm your body over time. It also lacks preservatives and has an informed choice/ gluten-free certified formula, which attests to its high quality. You can safely use it every day at home or in a local gym with noticable results.
What We Like
- Rapidly digesting formula
- Naturally occurring BCAAs
- Clean and minimal taste
- Zero artificial ingredients
Highlights
The 100% whey formula of Ascent Native Fuel delivers professional results. It is safe, rapidly digesting, and rich in BCCAAs. Each scoop delivers 25g of protein.
7. Tera’s Whey Organic Protein
Are you shopping for an organic protein powder that tastes good and works quickly with minimal effort from users? Tera’s Whey ranks among the best due to its superior quality. It contains 100% grass-fed whey protein, which is not only tastier but also safer than similar powders. It is also organic with a rich Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla flavor that improves both its taste and aftertaste. If it is your first time using protein powders, you will love this brand.
The safety of the Tera’s Whey protein powder is on another level. Its organic certified whey protein is safe and sourced directly from family farms in Wisconsin, USA. It is also protein-dense (21g per serving), low glycemic, low carb, and antibiotic-free.
What We Like
- 100% grass-fed whey
- USDA Organic whey
- 21 grams per serving
- Certified gluten-free
- Antibiotic-free formula
Highlights
Tera’s Whey is a quality product, with a safe and effective whey protein formula. It is also gluten-free, antibiotic-free, and certified organic by the USDA.
8. BSN Syntha-6 Whey Protein Powder
Cold-pressed protein powders are nutritious, as this production process extracts the protein while retaining the highest nutrition density rating. They are also tasty and recommended for anyone with an interest, as they lack additives and banned substances. The BSN Syntha-6 whey powder offers these benefits and many more. Each scoop contains about 25 grams of whey protein, which is one of the highest on our list. It is also a rich source of micellar casein and has a creamy texture with a mint chocolate flavor. Whether you prepare it with water or milk, it tastes amazing with a smooth, consistent texture.
While the taste of BSN Syntha-6 seems indulgent, you only get 3 grams of sugar per serving. As such, the powder is suitable for weight loss, as it keeps calorie consumption low. You can also use it between meals, post-workout, or as a treat or snack when cravings hit.
What We Like
- Low sugar contact
- Mint chocolate flavor
- Creamy texture
- Effortless to prepare
- Micellar casein-rich
- 25 grams per serving
Highlights
BSN Syntha-6 is delicious, protein-dense, and a rich source of micellar casein, which makes it perfect for building muscle. Its preparation in milk or water is easy, while its ingredients are safe.
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9. Vega Protein and Greens Plant-Based Protein Powder
Vega Protein offers approximately 25 grams of vegetarian protein per serving. It is gluten-free, keto-friendly, and comes in a large 10.8-ounce container. So, if you are shopping for a cost-effective protein supplement to add to your routine, put this one on top of your list. Its organic formula (alfalfa, kale, spinach, and broccoli) is suitable for both women and men. It also dissolves quickly in most liquids (including ice water), which makes it simple to prepare. You can also swap it in vegetable recipes and bake delicious treats for your family.
Vega Protein and Greens Plant-Based Protein Powder lacks sugar. Instead, the manufacturer uses stevia as a sweetener, which makes it a healthier alternative than other brands. It also provides approximately 120 calories per serving, giving you enough energy to excel through your workout routines. Vega Protein is a non-GMO powder.
What We Like
- Non-GMO ingredients
- 8-ounce container
- 25g of protein per serving
- Easy to prepare
Highlights
Vega Protein is non-GMO, tasty, and provides approximately 25 grams of protein per serving. The powder is easy to mix and comes in a large and long-lasting package.
10. Iconic Protein Powder Vanilla Bean
Iconic Protein Powder Vanilla Bean is sold as a 1-pound package, offering 18 servings of protein in each bag. Each serving contains 20g of a blended protein (casein and whey), and because the slow-digesting protein is filling, you will eat less and gain muscle while working out. It is also gluten-free, Kosher-safe, and lactose free.
Iconic has a soothing vanilla taste that most of its users like. Whether you blend it with water or milk or bake it into a treat, you will reap benefits from using it daily. In addition, the grass-fed formula is 100% safe since it is also hormone-free, low carb, low calorie, soy-free, and gluten free.
What We Like
- Lacks additives
- Slow digesting protein
- Kosher certified
- Lactose/gluten-free
- Safe blended protein
Highlights
The slow-digesting blended protein of Iconic plays an excellent role in weight loss. It is 100% safe, lowers hunger pangs, and stimulates muscle growth naturally if you use it as directed.
Things to Look for in Protein Powders
Protein powders are like fuel for muscles. They help people to develop large or strong muscles without using synthetic additives like steroids. However, even though effective, the quality of your product of choice should be clean and natural. Look for a branded product with a reputation for its superior quality. You should also check these attributes before buying:
Protein Type
Protein powders are of two broad types – whey and plant. Whey is a byproduct of milk or cheese. Even though sweet, you get a calorie-free product that absorbs fast into the blood stream to induce faster muscle gain. It is affordable and easy to prepare with beverages and snacks due to its versatility. Plant proteins, on the other hand, originate from plants such as peas, spinach, and broccoli. They are not as sweet as whey but are generally safer for people who are allergic to dairy or dairy products.
Plant proteins are also fast absorbing and easy to blend in beverages, or used as a good substitute for flour when baking. Casein proteins are equally good but often work best when blended with whey or plant proteins. Like whey, casein comes from milk, which might be concerning for people who are allergic to dairy products. However, they are slow absorbing, making them ideal for weight loss.
Protein Form
After you have settled on the best protein type for your body, check its form and choose a product that will help you reach your goals the fastest. Depending on your budget, you will come across three broad types. Protein concentrates, for instance, contain about 60-80% protein, produced using enzymes and acids. They are fast acting but tend to contain high amounts of carbs and fats.
Unlike protein concentrates that are somewhat crude, protein isolates are filtered concentrates with a low level of fat and carbs. They are protein-rich (90-95%) and are the best for people who want to lose weight naturally and gain muscle at the same time. Finally, protein hydrolysates are the purest form of protein powders that you will come across. They absorb the quickest delivering faster results than isolates and concentrates. Keep in mind that you will usually find the highest quality proteins come with a slightly higher price tag.
Daily Protein Intake
Too much of something is always dangerous. Therefore, even though protein powders are great and can induce faster muscle growth, check your intake. How much protein should an adult fitness enthusiast use every day? Overall, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is approximately 0.8 grams per day per kilogram of body weight. Therefore, if you weigh 220 pounds (100 kilograms), exceeding 80 grams of protein powder per day might not be a good idea. Keep it to 80 grams or lower to stay healthy and have fast and long-lasting results.
To get the correct amount of proteins every time, check the concentration of proteins in every scoop and
use it as a baseline. If you need 80 grams per day, for instance, and your brand of choice offers 20 grams per scoop, you will need four scoops of protein to nourish your body and muscles. If you exercise twice per day, two scoops in the morning and two scoops in the evening will be sufficient, but remember to count the protein you are getting from whole foods too!
Benefits of Using Protein Powders
What are the benefits of using protein powders while working out? If you are looking to grow muscle mass and are at a crossroads of whether to use protein powder or not, read on. We have highlighted a few benefits that you should expect from top rated protein powders.
Weight Management
The poor diet choices that some individuals make while trying to build muscle has many negative consequences. Instead of gaining muscle, most people gain weight uncontrollably, reversing the gains they made with regular exercise. With protein powder, you will be able to manage your weight better as most premium brands are low in calories and sugar. Instead, they offer protein-dense powders that fast track the growth of muscles naturally.
Muscle Recovery
People who use high-quality protein powders tend to experience faster muscle recovery after a workout. They also receive ample amounts of BCAAs, which are thought to strengthen and sculpt muscles naturally. Therefore, you will look good and feel healthy.
Fast-Acting Product
Compared to meat and fish, the best protein powders deliver faster and longer-lasting results without costing a fortune. They are easy to prepare with water, soups, or milk and lack chemicals such as preservatives and artificial colors, to name a few.
Of course, always consult your physician before drastically changing your fitness and diet routine.
