Fact Checked
Overview
Protein is one of the most essential nutrients the body requires for optimal fitness and health. However, a notable number of people struggle to take the recommended daily dosage.
Protein powder for weight loss made from all-natural organic ingredients is the best way of achieving your daily protein dose.
There are varieties of protein powder for weight loss formulated to ensure that your body gets the recommended amount of protein per day.
Combined with a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle habits, these delicious protein shakes can help you lose weight or gain muscles fast.
While protein powder may be an isolated version of protein meant to boost your protein intake without necessarily eating whole protein food, you should not replace it with real food containing protein, advises Zabka-Belsky, MS, RD, a resident dietitian at Clean Eatz Kitchen Crystal.
But how effective are these protein powders? Do they really work? Read on for answers to these questions and much more.
Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss:
Best for Overall:
High Impact Whey Protein
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women:
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder
Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
Transparent Labs Casein
Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
XWerks Grow
Best Post-Workout Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
Re-Kaged
Best Fast-Digesting Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
Whey Protein Isolate
Best Plant-Based Protein Powder for Weight Loss:
KOS Organic Plant Protein
Our Top Picks
#1 High Impact Whey Protein
Key features:
- Number of servings : 15 Servings
- Dose: 2 Scoop (25.4g)
- Key Ingredients : 15 g of Whey Protein Isolate, 200 mg of Marine Algae,
- Available flavors : Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry vanilla
- Price per serving : $4.66
- Certifications : FDA-approved and GMP-certified & strict quality tested product
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.6/5, Mixability– 4.7/5, Quality – 4.7/5, Third-party test– 4.9/5
What we love:
- Free Shipping over $50
- 90-Day Money Back Guarantee
- Flavor options
- No artificial sweeteners
- Non-GMO, Antibiotic-free, Hormone-free
What to consider:
- Only Available on the Official site
- Results may vary
- Only 15 Servings per container
Why We Choose High Impact Whey Protein
High Impact whey protein powder provides 15gm proteins. It is a high-quality grass-fed protein source containing essential amino acids to support muscle growth and recovery, with easy digestibility and no added sugar.
Overview
This whey protein powder from High Impact aims to provide a high-quality protein source to support muscle growth and recovery. It contains 100% whey protein concentrate which provides 15 grams of protein per serving (2 Scoops). The best part is that this protein is sourced from grass-fed cows and processed using microfiltration to remove fat and lactose.
The protein profile breakdown shows it contains all essential amino acids to help curb unhealthy cravings, support a healthy weight, and nourish muscles for repair and growth. The protein is easily digestible due to its concentrated form.
Each serving of one scoop is 5 grams. Instead of artificial sugar, it uses Monk Fruit or Stevia. The powder mixes well into shakes without any clumping or chalky texture. Three flavors are available – chocolate smooth, vanilla, and strawberry Vanilla to suit different taste preferences.
The product aims to help build and maintain muscle mass through consistent use in a workout routine combined with resistance training. Overall it provides a simple way to boost daily protein intake and support muscle growth and recovery goals for active individuals and bodybuilders.
#2 Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein
Key features:
- Number of servings : 30 Servings
- Dose: 1 scoop (30g)
- Key Ingredients : 160 mg of Potassium, 50 mg of Sodium,
- Available flavors : Chocolate, Vanilla, and Salted Caramel
- Price per serving : $1 per serving
- Certifications : FDA & GMP certified vegan
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.8/5, Mixability– 4.7/5, Quality – 4.7/5, Third-party test– 5/5
What we love:
- Can be used any time of the day
- Combination of 4 different proteins.
- Flavor options available
- Only 109.5 Calories
What to consider:
- The price is a bit higher
- Contains allergens
Why We Choose Crazy Nutrition Tri-Protein
This varied protein powder provides 25.3gm of protein that effectively supports muscle growth through its high protein content. It offers 5 amazing flavors that can also satisfy your tastebuds. With a 30-day return policy, it is a trustworthy brand that also offers other health supplements.
Overview
This protein powder offers a combination of 4 high-powered proteins that are digested at 3 different stages, thus its name is tri-protein. Each 30-gram serving (1 Scoop) contains 25.3 grams of protein to support muscle growth and recovery. The varied protein blend made of Whey Protein Isolate (MILK), Whey Protein Concentrate (MILK), Micellar Casein (MILK), Milk Protein Concentrate (MILK), and Hydrolysed Whey (MILK) helps maximize amino acid delivery and absorption.
The whey protein provides fast-digesting protein to quickly replenish amino acids after workouts. Five flavors are available – Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, Salted Caramel, and Banana to suit different tastes.
The product aims to help build and maintain muscle mass through consistent use in a workout routine combined with resistance training. People who are consistent can benefit from a subscription plan that offers savings on monthly deliveries. Automatic shipping ensures the product never runs out.
Customer reviews praise the smooth texture and great taste of the protein. Many note feeling fuller for longer compared to other proteins. Overall, the varied protein blend and subscription option provides a convenient way to boost daily protein intake and support muscle growth and recovery goals. The easy-to-digest formula makes it suitable as a post-workout shake.
#3 Transparent Labs 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Key features:
- Number of servings : 30 servings
- Dose: 1 scoop (32.96g)
- Key Ingredients : 28g of Protein, 114 mg of Calcium, 1 mg of Iron, 130 mg of Potassium,
- Available flavors : French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Milk Chocolate, Strawberry, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter
- Price per serving : $1.99 per serving
- Certifications : FDA-approved and GMP-certified /li>
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.8/5, Mixability– 4.7/5, Quality – 4.5/5, Third-party test– 4.9/5
What we love:
- Gluten-Free and Non-GMO
- A wide number of flavors are available
- Affordable price
- Science-Backed Formulas
- 3rd-Party Lab Tested
What to consider:
- Produced in a facility that has nuts
Why We Choose Transparent Labs 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate
With so many tasty flavors, this protein has won our hearts. It offers 28 gm of protein in one scoop and also has 30 servings per container, which is a great deal when compared to price per scoop.
Overview
This whey protein isolate is designed to provide a pure, undenatured protein source with high bioavailability. It contains over 87.5% protein by weight percentage which is one of the industry’s highest. The isolate process removes fat, carbs and lactose to leave a highly concentrated protein. It has no fats and zero sugars.
Each 32-gram serving contains 28 grams of protein as well as 5.5 grams of BCAAs including 3 grams of leucine. This amino acid profile supports muscle protein synthesis and recovery from intense workouts. The grass-fed whey ensures the cows are fed their natural diet without hormones or antibiotics.
Third-party testing verifies the purity and potency of the product. It contains no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Consumers loved its taste with water, almond milk, or other beverages. It has various different flavors to satisfy every type of craving. Some of the most loved flavors are Oatmeal Choco-chip, Cinnamon French Toast, Mint Choco-chip, and Unflavoured.
The high-quality protein source can be used before and after workouts by active individuals, athletes, and bodybuilders. It aims to support muscle growth, recovery, fat loss, and performance goals. Subscription options offer savings on monthly shipments.
Overall, the pure and potent grass-fed whey protein isolate provides a simple way to boost daily protein intake with a complete protein that absorbs quickly into the bloodstream. The emphasis on quality ingredients and testing sets it apart from other options.
#4 Transparent Labs Casein
Key features:
- Number of servings : 15 servings
- Dose: 1 scoop (192g)
- Key Ingredients : 25 grams of Instantized Micellar Casein,
- Available flavors : Chocolate
- Price per serving : $1.99
- Certifications : Non GMO, USDA organic, FDA and GMP certified
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.8/5, Mixability– 4.4/5, Quality – 4.5/5, Third-party test– 4.3/5
What we love:
- Casein protein is better compared to other protein
- Science-Backed Formulas
- Clinically Effective Dosages.
- No Artificial Sweeteners, Colors, or Flavors.
- 3rd-Party Lab Tested.
What to consider:
- Contains Milk
- Ideally less protein content in each serving
Why We Choose Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Casein Protein
Casein protein is more beneficial than other types of protein. This protein by Transparent Labs is a little bit expensive if look out for serving size and the amount of protein it provides. This protein powder provides only 25 gm of protein when consumed in 1 scoop (35 gm).
Overview
This casein protein powder provides a slow-digesting protein source to support muscle growth. Unlike whey, casein digests gradually over several hours, maintaining elevated amino acid levels. The protein comes from the same grass-fed cows as the whey line.
Each serving of 35 grams (1 scoop) delivers 25 grams of protein. Compared to other casein proteins, the grass-fed source is less likely to cause digestive issues as the cows consume their natural diet.
After consuming micellar casein protein, it is mixed with gastric juices to form a viscous gel-like substance that slowly moves through the digestive tract and releases amino acids into the bloodstream for up to eight hours. Thus, micellar casein tends to be more satiating and suited to nighttime use than rapidly absorbed protein sources. The slow digestion makes it ideal for overnight muscle recovery as well as maintaining elevated levels between meals.
Active individuals can benefit from using it before bed to feed muscles during rest. Bodybuilders may incorporate it on non-workout days. Overall, this grass-fed casein provides a pure and complete slow-digesting protein to support muscle growth and recovery.
#5 XWerks Grow
Key features:
- Number of servings : 30 Servings
- Dose: 1 scoop
- Key Ingredients : Whey protein isolate
- Available flavors : Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Vanilla
- Price per serving : $1.97
- Certifications : FDA-approved and GMP-certified
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.6/5, Mixability– 4.5/5, Quality – 4.3/5, Third-party test– 4.0/5
What we love:
- Soy- and gluten-free
- 100% whey protein isolate
- Amazing rich flavor with no aftertaste
- Low Carb KETO Friendly
- Easily digestible, no bloat
What to consider:
- Limited flavors
- Contains Allergens
Why We Choose XWerks Grow
Xwerks Grow is an affordable and effective protein powder that supports muscle growth and recovery. It is loved by consumers for its limited but classic flavor options and digestive-friendly formulation.
Overview
Xwerks Grow is a protein powder designed to support muscle repair and recovery, providing a convenient and effective solution for fitness enthusiasts and athletes. The product offers several key benefits and features to support increased muscle repair and recovery, making it an ideal post-workout supplement. It is formulated to eliminate the bloating often associated with other protein powders so users do not experience the bloated feel. Xwerks Grow offers a pleasant taste without the unpleasant aftertaste that can be common in protein supplements.
Each serving of Xwerks Grow delivers an impressive 25g of protein, derived from 100% grass-fed cows in New Zealand to support muscle growth and recovery. The protein powder undergoes a cold-pressed micro-filtration process which helps preserve key protein substances, ensuring a high-quality and nutritious product.
It has a high protein content with minimal fat and carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Each container of Xwerks Grow provides 30 servings, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking a reliable protein supplement.
#6 Re-Kaged
Key features:
- Number of servings : 20 Servings
- Dose: 28g protein per serving
- Key Ingredients : 28g of Whey protein isolate, 1.5g of creatine HCl, 1.5g of BetaPower, 280mf of ProHydrolase
- Available flavors : Strawberry Lemonade, Orange Cream, and more
- Price per serving : $2.25
- Certifications : Non-GMO, gluten-free, banned substance-free
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.6/5, Mixability– 4.5/5, Quality – 4.3/5, Third-party test– 4.0/5
What we love:
- Ultra-filtered whey isolate for muscle growth
- Includes creatine HCl for recovery boost
- Digestive enzyme for easy digestion
- Free from banned substances, third-party tested
What to consider:
- Limited availability in some flavors
- Premium price compared to other proteins
- May not be suitable for lactose intolerance
Why We Choose Re-Kaged
We chose Re-Kaged for its complete post-workout recovery solution with top-quality ingredients. It includes whey protein isolate, creatine HCl, and digestive enzymes to boost muscle mass, recovery, and digestion, making it a standout in the post-workout supplement series.
Overview
Re-Kaged is a high-end protein shake for post-weight training muscle repair and development. With 28 grams of whey protein isolate and added creatine HCl, it delivers amino acids directly to muscles for recovery after intense training.
Some of the factors that customers like Re-Kaged for include, Numerous of them speak of its effectiveness for recovery and muscle mass gain without tension in the stomach due to lactose and adding ProHydrolase.
Consumers appreciated it for its good quality, easy mixing, and delicious taste. Coaching is valued for its simple, natural, additive-free composition and absence of banned substances, crucial for athletes in post-training meals.
#7 Whey Protein Isolate
Key features:
- Number of servings : 20-24 (based on size)
- Dose: 25g of protein per serving
- Key Ingredients : 100% whey protein isolate, digestive enzymes
- Available flavors : Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry
- Price per serving : $1.87 per serving
- Certifications : Non-GMO, gluten-free, Informed-Sport certified
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.6/5, Mixability– 4.5/5, Quality – 4.3/5, Third-party test– 4.0/5
What we love:
- 25g of pure whey isolate per serving
- Fast-digesting with patented digestive enzymes
- Ultra-filtered for better absorption and no bloating
- Free from artificial colors and flavors
What to consider:
- Some customers report receiving the wrong container size
- Higher price compared to standard whey blends
- Limited flavors available for selection
Why We Choose Whey Protein Isolate
Whey Protein Isolate is valued for providing essential, fast-digesting protein without the extra components found in many supplements. It uses patented digestive enzymes and ultrafiltration to boost absorption and reduce bloating—ideal for those who work out regularly and need to build muscle mass.
Overview
Whey Protein Isolate is an upgraded version of Whey Protein Concentrate, ideal for those dedicated to body sculpting. Each serving provides 25 grams of protein, using microfiltration to remove fats, cholesterol, and lactose for a pure protein taste.
Consumers appreciate the product’s fast digestion, making it gentle on sensitive stomachs, especially for those who can’t digest milk. Many reviews praise the taste and excellent solubility, contributing to its popularity among fitness enthusiasts.
The product is labeled Non-GMO and Gluten-Free to meet health-conscious consumers’ needs. It’s also third-party tested for banned substances, ensuring athletes can trust this supplement.
#8 KOS Organic Plant Protein
Key features:
- Number of servings : 28 servings per container
- Dose: 20g of protein per serving
- Key Ingredients : Organic pea protein, flaxseed protein, chia seed protein
- Available flavors : Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberries & Cream
- Price per serving : $2.14 per serving
- Certifications : USDA organic, gluten-free, non-GMO
- Testing scores : Texture– 4.6/5, Mixability– 4.5/5, Quality – 4.3/5, Third-party test– 4.0/5
What we love:
- Delicious and smooth plant-based protein blend
- Free from bloat-inducing lactose or by-products
- Responsibly sourced, USDA organic ingredients
- Packed with essential nutrients and minerals
What to consider:
- Limited availability in some flavors
- Higher price compared to whey protein
- May require additional flavoring for certain tastes
Why We Choose KOS Organic Plant Protein
Its taste, pure ingredients list and ethical sourcing make KOS Organic Plant Protein a top choice. Ideal for those adding plant-based protein to their diet, it aids muscle recovery and weight loss, all while tasting great. Its unique feature is the absence of swelling, setting it apart from other plant proteins.
Overview
KOS Organic Plant Protein is a plant-based protein shake for those wanting clean proteins in their diet. It blends pea, flaxseed, and chia-seed protein to provide all amino acids in a digestible form without whey product side effects.
Customers love the great taste of this flavor, especially chocolate, strawberry, and cream, which pairs well with tea and coffee. Many consumers appreciate its simplicity and ease of digestion, especially those with lactose intolerance and those who take plant-based protein.
KOS Organic Plant Protein is organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of artificial colors or flavors. Certified by the USDA, it enhances muscle mass and recovery while aligning with a clean, plant-based lifestyle for health-conscious individuals.
How Do Protein Powders For Weight Loss Work?
The suggested dietary protein intake for adults per day to avoid deficiency is 0.8 grams per 1 kg of body weight your weight is 165 pounds, and you should consume 60 grams of protein per day.
A study in the Journal of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome shared by Ju Young Kim notes that higher protein intake can help preserve lean body mass and also promote weight loss.
Protein works by increasing diet-induced thermogenesis – the amount of energy the body needs for the effective digestion of food.
Protein requires about 20 to 30 percent of its usable energy to be stored and metabolized. Fats, on the other hand, require about 5-10 percent and carbohydrates 0-3 percent. This means that more calories are burned during protein digestion than carbs and fats.
Protein is also known to increase satiety feeling more than carbs and fats do. So, if you eat a protein shake or protein bar compared to chips on a road trip, the protein bar or shake will keep you feeling fuller for an extended period.
Also, a higher protein diet is great at preserving muscles and can also affect the amount of calories the body is able to burn at rest because compared to fat, muscle takes more calories to maintain, explains Maddie Pasquariello, a registered dietitian in New York and founder of Nutrition with Maddie.
How We Picked the Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss?
When picking the best protein powder for weight loss, our team used the criteria below:
- Nutritional Analysis: Our team did a thorough nutritional analysis with a focus on calorie levels, protein content, and the presence of additives. This was to ensure that each protein powder meets the nutritional requirements for effective weight loss.
- Ingredient Quality: Our team did a scrutiny of the ingredients in the protein powders, where it prioritized products with minimal additives and high-quality sources. This was to ensure that you have at your disposal the best nutrient with no unnecessary fillers.
- User Feedback and Experience: User experience is important because it gives us more insight into a product. So, our team took into consideration customer testimonials and feedback to help you understand the practical benefits of protein powder for weight loss from the users’ point of view.
- Value for Money: Our team also evaluated each product’s cost per serving to ensure that you get value for your money. Our selection, therefore, balances affordability with quality, crucial for effective weight loss.
- Brand Reputation: Brand trustworthiness matters a lot and that is why our team prioritized protein powders from reputable brands. Companies with good reputations are dedicated to producing high-quality products for their customers.
What Ingredients Are the Common Ingredients in Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss?
Some of the common ingredients in the best protein powders are discussed below supported with scientific links:
Whey Protein
High protein intake especially leucine and why protein is recommended because it can effectively mitigate weight loss’s adverse effect on muscle mass.
According to a publication in Nutrient Journal whey protein supplementation has been shown to promote whole-body anabolism. It has also shown the ability to improve acute exercise performance recovery following strenuous resistance exercise.
Organic Oat Powder
Oat is gluten-free and one of the healthiest grains on earth. It is a great source of vital minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber
Various studies have found oats to have plenty of health benefits. It can effectively help manage weight loss, and blood sugar levels, and reduce heart-related health risks.
A research publication in the Current Nutrition Reports notes that oat starch has a low glycemic index, making it beneficial for weight loss. Also, organic oat powder is rich in fiber and protein crucial for controlling appetite.
Organic Pea Protein
Organic pea protein is vegan-friendly protein packed with high-quality protein and also a rich source of iron.
Pea protein is made from organic legumes, meaning that it is non-GMO, pesticide-free, and has been shown to aid in weight loss, muscle growth, and health.
A research publication in Sports Journal has shown that organic pea protein can help boost daily protein intake without the need for animal byproducts.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract has been linked to weight loss because of its ability to boost metabolism and control blood glucose levels.
A publication in Chinese Medicine has revealed that green tea extract has powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, crucial for healthy blood glucose levels, healthy metabolism, and fat burning.
What Are the Key Benefits of Protein Powders For Weight Loss?
Protein powder for weight loss has the following benefits:
Controls hunger strikes
Protein powder is one of the best satiating macronutrients. The proteins work by increasing the level of specific hormones responsible for controlling appetite and reducing hunger hormones.
This helps in reducing hunger strikes and keeps your appetite balanced so that you can feel fuller for longer, crucial for managing weight.
Increases metabolism
A healthy metabolism can help speed up the weight loss process because it is responsible for converting calories into usable energy.
So, a higher intake of proteins combined with regular exercise can help build muscle mass, which in turn helps in the burning of more calories and a healthier metabolism great for weight loss.
Helps to maintain a calorie deficit
If you experience a satiety feeling, you are less likely to experience hunger strikes or the urge to eat more than you need, which helps to keep your body in a calorie shortage state.
Also, the body requires more energy to digest protein than any other macronutrients like carbs and fats. So, even with less energy, you can still burn more body fat and calories.
Key Things to Look for in the Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss?
Choosing protein powder for weight loss may not be easy, especially with varieties in the market. Below are some of the things to look out for when buying a protein powder for weight loss:
Protein Content
We recommend choosing protein powders containing high protein content. Protein will help you experience a satiety feeling and also preserve lean muscle mass throughout the weight loss process.
Type of Protein
Protein type is another thing to consider when buying a protein powder for weight loss. This is because proteins do not offer similar benefits as each protein has a unique benefit.
So, during your selection, ensure that you are choosing one that aligns with your needs and dietary preferences. Health experts recommend choosing protein sources like casein, plant-based, whey, etc.
Minimal Additives
A clean formula is vital if you want to achieve healthy weight loss. So, we recommend choosing a protein powder with minimal artificial ingredients, additives, and sweeteners.
Low Calories
To be able to effectively support calorie deficit, ensure that you choose a protein powder containing lower calorie counts.
Digestibility
Easily digestible proteins are the best if you want to keep off digestive discomfort. This may even be more beneficial for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
Mixability and Taste
Consistency is crucial if you want to achieve healthy weight loss with protein shakes. We recommend choosing a flavor you enjoy and making sure you mix the powder with your preferred beverage/liquid.
Conclusion
Finding the right protein dietary powder for weight loss can significantly impact not only your fitness journey but your overall health too.
So, whether you’re aiming for effective weight management, lean muscle development, or overall well-being, everything rests in choosing protein powder made using high-quality ingredients.
We recommend exploring our selection of the best protein powder for weight loss for women, which we are confident has been formulated to meet a variety of nutritional needs.
By incorporating these dietary protein powders into your daily health regimen, you will be taking a step towards a fit and healthier body.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Are Protein Powders Effective for Weight Loss?
However, Pasquariello notes that bumping up protein intake does not instantly initiate weight loss or change your body composition.
To ensure efficiency, you also need to consider factors like overall calories, genes, diet quality, and activity level as they also play a crucial role in body composition and weight loss, says Pasquariello.
A publication in Frontiers in Nutrition notes that protein supplementation pre and or post-work-out can help boost performance and recovery.
Q. How Many Times Should I Take a Protein Powder in a Day?
For an average person, Bryd recommends taking two protein shakes per day, because taking more than this may negatively cut into your diet.
If you are working out regularly to build muscles, two proteins per day should be enough. And if you are not leading an active life, one protein shake per day should be enough for you, adds Bryd.
Q. Which Protein Powder is Best for Losing Weight?
Various studies have compared the effect of whey protein and soy protein on body composition, the results of the studies have indicated that supplementation of whet protein has been shown to significantly increase lean body mass without prompting fat mass while soy protein did not.
Some studies have also shown that Herbalife plant-based protein powder offers a variety of solutions for both weight loss and muscle gain.
Q. When Should I Take Protein Powder to Lose Weight?
Some studies have indicated that the best time to take protein powder is immediately after exercise while some studies say that timing has shown to have little effect on muscle development and weight loss. You should instead base your protein powder consumption on three things; tolerance, preference, and convenience.
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