We love a smoothie. It’s a quick way to add more fruits and veggies (aka nutrients!) to your day. In addition to your go-to greens and berries, adding a scoop of protein powder to your favorite flavor combination can be the extra boost you need to help with muscle repair post-workout, curb cravings and keep you satisfied longer. There are hundreds of brands and different types of protein powder on the shelves. There’s soy, pea, brown rice, whey and even hemp. With so many options, it’s hard to know which one is the right one for you? Amirite?
There are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing protein powder. You’ll want to avoid powders made with low-quality protein and a laundry list of unhealthy additives. Instead, look for a short ingredient list that is free from unhealthy artificial sweeteners and additives. In order to get the most out of your protein powder, you’ll also want to make sure it contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs to make protein.
We’ve rounded up seven protein powders that pass the test when it comes to simple, clean ingredients, and quality protein. Whether you want animal protein, something plant-based, or dairy-free, there’s a nutritious and tasty option you’ll feel good about scooping.
Life’s Abundance Chocolate Plant Protein Powder
There’s no need to mask the flavor of your protein powder when you have this super delicious chocolate option. Created by Nutritious Life’s very own Keri Glassman, you can be confident you’re getting nutrient-rich, plant-based protein in every scoop. Enjoy the chocolate protein powder in this antioxidant-rich Chocolate Cherry Smoothie. Chocolate not your thing? Don’t worry, Keri’s vanilla version is just as tasty.
Less Naked Whey Vanilla Protein Powder
Whey protein is a popular choice when it comes to protein powders, and for good reason. This milk protein is loaded with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that are quickly absorbed and ideal for building muscle post-workout. Unlike some whey proteins, this one is made with only three ingredients including 100% grass-fed, pure whey protein, vanilla, and organic coconut sugar. Try adding this powder to our gut-friendly Raspberry Oat Smoothie for a satiating protein boost.
Tera’s Organic Pure Bourbon Vanilla Whey Protein
Try this whey protein if you want a powder that’s both effective and delicious. Organic and ethically-sourced from small family farms in Wisconsin, you can be confident you’re getting quality, clean protein in every scoop. Add Tera’s Whey Protein Powder to this antioxidant-packed Banana Spinach Turmeric Smoothie for an extra dose of tasty protein.
Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Mocha Protein Powder
Plant-based? No problem. Organic, fermented pea protein, goji berry, and hemp protein combine to provide a full amino-acid profile and muscle-building BCAAs without any need for animal protein. Use this satiating protein powder with our Frozen Hot Chocolate Smoothie for a decadent post-workout treat.
Garden of Life Raw Organic Vanilla Protein Powder
This protein powder is the overachiever of the group. You’ll find not one or two, but 13 plant protein sources listed on this 100% vegan and organic ingredient list. On top of the 22 grams of protein, you’ll also get probiotics and the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Start your day off right by enjoying this powder in our creamy, nutritious Avocado Banana Smoothie.
MRM Nutrition Egg White Vanilla Protein Powder
Is there anything eggs can’t do? This quality protein can be scrambled, baked, boiled, and now added to your daily smoothie, too. Egg whites are flavored with vanilla and sweetened with stevia and monk fruit to create a tasty protein powder that’s ideal for anyone avoiding dairy and also looking for animal protein. Stay fueled all day long by adding it to this Strawberry Veggie Smoothie.
Isopure Zero Carb Unflavored Protein Powder
If you’re looking for all-day protein, then this whey protein powder is for you. Thanks to its undetectable flavor, you can add this protein powder to smoothies, baked goods, soups and sauces. Enjoy 25 grams of pure protein without any added sweeteners, flavors or colors. We think this protein powder will blend seamlessly into our delicious Gut Health Smoothie.
Ascent Micellar Chocolate Peanut Butter Casein Powder
Recover and build muscle while you sleep with this delicious casein protein powder flavored with chocolate and peanut butter from Ascent. Unlike whey (the other milk protein), casein is more slowly digested and provides a sustained release of amino acids that’s ideal for before bedtime. Made with simple ingredients, you’ll get 25 grams of protein and muscle-building BCAAs in every scoop. Take this Chocolate Post-Workout Smoothie to the next level with Ascent’s Native Fuel Micellar Casein Powder.
