15 Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss And Muscle Gain In 2024
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In This Article
Protein supplements are used to lose weight, gain muscle, strengthen ligaments and improve agility and overall strength, which is why athletes and those who prioritize their fitness consume higher amounts of proteins. If you’re someone who prioritizes their fitness and health, you must be looking for the best protein powder for weight loss and muscle gain.
Proteins are the body’s building blocks and a crucial source of energy. They are essential for healing cells, forming new ones, and strengthening muscles and ligaments.
As several manufacturers offer protein powders with different formulations, it becomes essential for you to choose tested and certified supplements to keep fit and healthy. Thus, we’ve compiled a list of some nutritious and trusted protein powders for muscle gain and weight loss in this post.
However, consult your doctor or a certified nutritionist before deciding on one. They will suggest one that aligns with your nutritional recommendations and is optimal for your body type.
Does Protein Help You Lose Weight?
Proteins are a crucial macronutrient and need to be taken as part of a balanced diet. Protein powders can accelerate metabolism, control your appetite, and help in losing fat and gain muscle. According to studies, rich protein diets can help bodyweight management compared with lower protein diets (1).
One study reports, “Short-term high-protein diet were accompanied by better weight loss and fat content reduction. A protein content difference of more than 5% led to three times more weight being lost (0.9 versus 0.3 kg) in 12 months (2).”
Top Picks
15 Best Protein Powders For Weight Loss and Muscle Gain
1. Best Easy-To-Mix:Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
The Optimum Nutrition 100% pure whey blend consists of 24 grams blended proteins, including whey peptides, whey protein isolate, and whey protein concentrate, ideal for endurance training. The whey blend also consists of more than five grams of naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids or BCAA, which help build strong and lean muscles. The instant drink is easy to mix, and the brand claims to adhere to the highest quality control measures for safety. Take a look at this video to learn more about this protein powder.
Ingredients
- Protein blend (whey protein isolates, whey protein concentrate, whey peptides)
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Lecithin
- Salt
- Acesulfame potassium
Pros
- RBST-free
- Supports recovery and endurance
- Contains enzymes that helps digest
- Contains ingredients that reduce gas
Cons
- Contains artificial flavors
- Hard to maintain it’s form in damp climate
Did you know?2. Best With Maltodextrin:Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 7,301 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Body Fortress super advanced whey protein powder contains creatine and crucial amino acids, which promise maximum results during pre-workout, intra-workout, and post-workout. The whey protein powder also offers maximum energy required by the body during training and builds lean muscles. The high-quality supplement is reasonably priced. This unbiased review video will help you learn more about the product.
Ingredients
- Super whey protein blend (whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate)
- Maltodextrin
- Soy lecithin
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Beet juice color
Pros
- Stimulates fast recovery
- Gluten-free
- Contains Taurine
- Absorbs quickly into the body
Cons
- May not be suitable for people avoiding carbs
- May not mix well
"I've been using this for a while and noticed an acceleration in my muscle recovery rate post-workout, enabling me to intensify my muscle-building routine. The strawberry flavor has a tinge of artificiality, but it satiates my sweet tooth."
3. Best Raw Organic Protein Blend:Garden Of Life Meal Replacement
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 32,170 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
The chocolate-flavored organic protein powder can be used as a meal replacement. Each serving contains 20 grams of organic plant protein, 44 superfood extracts such as vegetables, fruits, organic grass juices, six grams of fiber, 21 minerals, and vitamins. The protein powder boosts energy, builds muscles, and has 1.5 billion CFU probiotics and enzymes that promote easy digestion. Check out this video to learn more.
Ingredients
- Raw organic protein blend
- Organic pea protein
- Organic sprouted brown rice protein
- Organic amaranth (sprout)
- Organic buckwheat (sprout)
- Hemicellulase, [Lactobacillus Plantarum, lactobacillus bulgaricus] 1.5 Billion CFU
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Formulated without soya or dairy ingredients
- Has no added artificial flavors
Cons
- May contain thickeners
- May have a grainy texture
Quick tipOptimum Nutrition Standard Best Easy-To-Mix | Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder Best With Maltodextrin | Garden Of Life Meal Replacement Best Raw Organic Protein Blend | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 32.03 Ounces | 32 Ounces | - |
| Dimensions | 5.51 x 5.51 x 10 inches | 6 x 6 x 7.74 inches | 6 x 6 x 8.53 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 2.23 Pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 122,581 | 7,301 | 32,170 |
| Price | $35.99 | $19.99 | $45.49 |
4. Best Dairy-Free: Orgain Organic Protein
The vanilla-flavored organic superfood is plant-based. The powder aids in weight loss, boosts antioxidants, muscle building, and recovery. This workout supplement powder can be taken as a meal replacement drink, to make shakes and smoothies, and before or after workouts. The product contains 21 grams of plant protein, five grams of dietary fiber, and one gram of sugar, which add up to about 50 superfoods per serve. The product is vegan, USDA organic-approved, dairy-free, lactose-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and formulated by doctors.
Ingredients
- Orgain organic protein blend (pea protein, brown rice protein, chia seed)
- Natural flavor, Orgain organic creamer base (acacia gum, high oleic sunflower oil, rice dextrin, rice bran extract, rosemary extract)
- Erythritol, Orgain organic 50 superfoods blend (millet, ‘amaranth’ buckwheat, quinoa, chia, kale powder)
- Apple pulp
- Cinnamon
Pros
- Soy-free protein
- Has no artificial preservatives
- Has a smooth and easy mixable consistency
- Includes food-based vitamins
Cons
- May not be suitable for people allergic to cinnamon
- Some may find it sweeter than expected
"The versatile flavor of this protein powder allows me to include it in various food items like smoothies and yogurt, breaking the monotony of my weight loss diet. It requires some effort to blend well, but the smooth texture makes it worth the extra work."
5. Best Fast-Acting:Pure Protein Whey Protein Powder
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 20,411 reviews claiming its efficacy.
When we push our body to its limits during workouts, we require a lot of energy to refuel it. Pure Protein powder is ideal for regaining energy as it contains high protein and low carbohydrates and sugar. On average, the sports nutrition drink provides two grams of sugar, nine grams of carbohydrates, 2.5 grams of fats, and approximately 25 grams of proteins per serving. The fast-acting powder provides all the essential amino acids that the body requires.
Ingredients
- Protein blend (ultrafiltered whey protein concentrate, microfiltered whey protein isolate)
- Maltodextrin
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Cellulose gum
- Soy lecithin
Pros
- Strengthens muscle growth
- No soy protein
- Can be consumed post workout or in between meals
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May not have digestive enzymes
- Some may feel the taste is bitter
"The taste of this supplement is not overpowering, and its low sweetness levels match my requirements. While blending it into a creamy paste takes some time, it provides ample energy throughout the day."
Caution6. Best Strawberry-Flavored: Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder
The chocolate-flavored powder provides 32 grams of protein per serving. It is a combination of various protein forms, helping in muscle growth, recovery, and weight management. The powder is also a good source of vitamins A, C, D, leucine (essential amino acid), and fiber. Certified by the NSF, the powder provides instant energy and can be had for breakfast and pre- and post-workouts. A YouTube vlogger from The Free World says, “Muscle Milk has casein in it. Casein is a slow-digesting protein which is really good to consume before you go to bed or early in the morning if you’re not planning to eat anything for a while. If you don’t like the taste of protein powder, put it in coffee. It mixes up easier and is a little bit easier to drink.”
*NSF International is an American product testing, inspection, and certification organization. If a product gets NSF [Certified for Sport] certification, it means the product meets NSF’s quality and safety standards.
Ingredients
- Calcium sodium caseinate (milk)
- Milk protein isolate
- Non-dairy creamer (sunflower oil, maltodextrin)
- Sodium caseinate (a milk derivative)
- Mono and diglycerides,
Pros
- Suitable for people with lactose intolerance
- Caffeine-free
- Suitable for on-the-go snacks
- Offers great mixability
Cons
- May not suit everyone
- May not work for people trying to get lean
"This protein powder does a great job of keeping my hunger pangs at bay. The calorie count per serving is a bit higher than I prefer. However, making a few adjustments in my meals allows me to reap the benefits without upsetting my daily calorie restriction."
7. Best For Sunflower Creamer: Dymatize Super Mass Gainer Protein Powder
Made with the highest quality ingredients, the super mass gainer contains proteins, calories, vitamins, minerals, and BCAA that assist in muscle gain and building strength. Marc, a fitness enthusiast from Big Pin Fitness, a YouTube channel, says, “I gained five pounds in the first couple of weeks; you need to be consistent with this product. If you work out, eat a lot, and you take this powder, you will be gaining weight.” The casein and whey protein present in the powder provides continuous energy to your body. The BCAA activates muscle protein synthesis, while creatine provides endurance and strength. Glutamine, vitamins, and minerals help in speedy muscle recovery.
Ingredients
- Maltodextrin
- Protein Blend (whey protein concentrate, milk protein isolate, Whey protein isolate, whey protein hydrolysate, micellar casein)
- Sunflower creamer (sunflower oil, sodium caseinate, mono and diglycerides, natural tocopherols, and tricalcium phosphate)
- Fructose
Pros
- Supports muscle tissue
- Provides balanced nutrition
- Digestion becomes easy
- Offers great mixability
Cons
- May feel difficult to consume when mixed with water
- Scoop size may seem big
8. Best Vitamin C: MuscleTech Protein Powder For Weight Loss
MuscleTech protein powder contains the key ingredient C. canephora robusta, which is vital in aiding weight loss. Each scoop of MuscleTech protein powder contains 30 grams of hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein isolate, 170 calories, 4 grams of carbohydrates, 3.5 grams of fat, and 6.6 grams of BCAA. The powder does not contain extra carbohydrates and sugars, is easy to mix, and comes in two flavors. YouTube reviewer from Healthy Don’t Hurt says, “I’m in the middle of a body transformation. I’m trying to get back into shape, and this product is helping with the recovery; it’s helping me with the growth.”
Ingredients
- Isolate and protein-peptide blend
- Protein
- Vitamin C
- Iron
- Sodium
Pros
- Suitable for men and women
- Strengthens the muscle
- Prevents bloating
- Blends well with water, milk, or skimmed milk
Cons
- Has no scoop inside
- May get foamy
"Having tried both the chocolate fudge brownie and vanilla flavors, I can vouch for its taste and effectiveness. It boosts my post-workout recovery while keeping me sat until my next meal. It has also helped me overcome my impulsive snacking habit."
9. Best Cold-Processed: Naked Whey Protein Powder
The Naked protein powder is a cold-processed whey protein formula that doesn’t contain artificial colors, additives, and flavors. It goes well with pre-workout shakes, fruits, and smoothies. Naked protein powder is a good source of amino acids, glutathione, and clean proteins and helps stimulate growth and improves recovery. It can be used for 15 servings.
Ingredients
- Whey protein concentrate
- Milk
Pros
- GMO-free
- Sourced from grass-fed cows
- Made of soy- and gluten-free ingredients
- Ensures zero contamination
Cons
- May cause bloating in some
- May form clumps
"This one lets me enjoy the natural goodness of grass-fed whey protein. I love that it's filling and healthy and has no bitter aftertaste. However, I need to use a blender to ensure a lump-free shake."
10. Best Carb-Friendly: GNC Total Lean | Lean Shake 25
If you want to improve your weight management journey with a shake low in carbs, the GNC Total Lean Shake 25 is clinically proven to help with weight loss and BMI and contains over 20 essential vitamins and minerals. With 25g of protein per serving and only 2g of sugar, it’s the perfect snack to keep you feeling fuller for longer. And at only 170 calories, it won’t set you back on your fitness goals.
Ingredients
- Milk Protein Concentrate
- Milk Protein Isolate
- Whey Protein Concentrate
- Calcium Caseinate
- Vitamin and Mineral blend
Pros
- Free of gluten and lactose
- No artificial flavors or colors
- Mixes easily with water or milk
- Available in various flavors
Cons
- May contain soy and wheat ingredients
- Some users may find the taste slightly sweet
11. Best For Intense Strength:Crazy Muscle Creatine Pills
The creatine pills are a unique blend of three creatines: monohydrate, alpha-ketoglutarate, and pyruvate, which maximize protein absorption. These strength training capsules help accelerate muscle growth and restore worn muscles. Creatine aids in three ways: it boosts the formation of proteins to create new muscles, speeds up the growth of new muscles, and aids an immense strength output.
Ingredients
- Creatine monohydrate powder
- Creatine alpha-ketoglutarate
- Creatine pyruvate
- Vegetable stearic acid
- Vegetable magnesium stearate
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Keto-friendly
- 100% vegetarian
Cons
- Pills may be a bit large
- Pills may be a bit hard to swallow for some
12. Best GMO-Free:Designer Whey Protein Powder
Made from premium quality whey protein, the powder is rich in calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and electrolytes that are ideal for post-workout recovery. The powder provides a daily requirement of 20 grams of natural proteins, 110 calories, probiotic, and no added sugars per serving.
The BCAA-rich protein with L-Leucine, L-Glutamine, Taurine & L-Phenylalanine, and digestive enzymes helps in protein absorption and promotes optimal performance. The powder, made from natural ingredients, is GMO-free and does not contain artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, and preservatives. It is made in the USA and is gluten-free and Kosher.
Ingredients
- Designer whey full spectrum peptides (GMO-free & rBGH-free)
- Whey protein concentrate
- GMO-free & rBGH-free whey protein isolate
- L-glutamine
- L-leucine
Pros
- Supports gut health
- No antibiotics
- Has great blending power
- Can be consumed any time of the day
Cons
- May have a medicinal taste
- May have a granule-like texture
"This formula appeals to my taste buds as well as my sensitive tummy. I do have to rely on a blender to make a smooth shale. However, the best part is that it creates a rich and creamy smoothie even when mixed with water. It has served me well so far."
13. Best For Advanced Recovery: NutraBio Classic Whey Protein Powder
NutraBio Classic Whey protein powder concentrate is 80% pure and cold-processed to ensure it is non-denatured, meaning it retains all vital nutrients. Classic Whey is rich in BCAAs and provides a complete spectrum of essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential amino acids that your body needs for optimum nitrogen retention, protein synthesis, and lean muscle growth. Every ingredient is listed, so you know what you’re putting into your body.
Ingredients
- Whey protein concentrate
- Natural flavor
- Natural cocoa powder
- Sucralose
- Xanthan gum
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- GMO-free
- Gluten- and soy-free
- No added sugar
Cons
- Protein powder can be clumpy if not mixed properly
- Some people may not like the taste
"Stirring the powder into a smooth drink is a breeze. I do not have to use a blender for it, making it great for my hectic schedule. The high-quality whey protein concentrate also seems to boost the effectiveness of my muscle growth workouts to an extent. Last but not least, I found the ice cream and cookie flavors scrumptious."
14. Best For Fat Burning:BSN Isoburn Lean Whey Protein Powder
The whey protein powder helps in burning fat while building lean muscle. Each scoop provides 20 grams of whey protein isolate that helps you build and maintain lean muscles, and 250mg of L-Carnitine enhances fat burning. BSN Isoburn also contains 300mg Lepticore and 300mg Green Coffee Extract. The protein powder provides 120 calories per serving, six grams of carbohydrates, two grams of sugar, and two grams of fat to support your weight management goals.
Ingredients
- Whey protein isolate
- Sunflower powder (sunflower oil, corn syrup solids, sodium caseinate, mono and diglycerides, dipotassium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, soy lecithin, and tocopherols)
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Cellulose gum
- MCT powder (medium-chain triglycerides, nonfat dry milk, disodium phosphate, and silicon dioxide)
Pros
- Non-caffeinated formula
- Can be consumed anytime
- Delicious taste
- Available in different flavors
Cons
- May not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance
- Granule-like texture may take time to dissolve
15. Best Natural Flavors:Her Natural Whey Protein Powder
Her natural whey protein powder for women is a unique and effective combination of pure whey protein isolate, pure undenatured whey protein concentrate, whey peptides, and skim milk powder. The natural product also contains superior quality proteins obtained from grass-fed cows and free of recombinant bovine growth hormone or rBGH.
The natural and wholesome ingredients do not have artificial sweeteners. Each serving comprises 20 grams of protein, three grams of carbohydrate, two grams of fat, and 110 calories that help build lean muscle tissues, fat burning.
Ingredients
- Microfiltered whey protein concentrate
- Whey protein isolate
- Whey peptides
- Skim milk
- Natural flavors
Pros
- Gluten-free protein
- GMP-certified
- Ideal as pre- and post-workout powder
- No chalky texture
- Helps uplift mood
Cons
- May leave residue at the bottom of the cup
- May feel lumpy when mixed with water
Disclaimer: The information given in the section has been taken from manufacturers’ sources. MomJunction is not responsible for any of the claims made here. We recommend readers’ discretion.
How To Choose The Right Protein Powders For Weight Loss And Muscle Gain?
Our body requires proteins, which act as an energy source. Proteins boost metabolism, reduce the calories you consume, and help you lose weight. When digested, proteins are broken down into amino acids (AA) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), which help repair and maintain your body tissues, burn fat and maintain lean muscles.
As it is difficult to get the daily dosage of required proteins from only natural derivatives, we may need to take in proteins in various other forms. While taking protein supplements, you must consider several factors like serving calories, fat, and carbohydrate content. Before you choose a protein supplement:
- Consult a medical doctor or a nutritionist
- Check the ingredients in the supplement. There is a multitude of protein supplements in the market. A doctor or a dietician can suggest choosing protein supplements with whey, whey isolate, whey hydrolysate, casein protein, soy, and egg.
- Consider your allergies and avoid protein supplements with ingredients that may trigger or flare up your allergies.
Different protein supplements give different results. Some powders are low on calories and help us lose weight, while products help you build muscle mass by providing high protein and calories. Protein powders come in different flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, etc.
Jenni Hackworth, a nutritionist and RYT200, states, “You should consider your dietary preferences and ensure it is gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, sugar-free, or free of flavors or artificial sweeteners when buying a protein supplement.” She adds, “Pick a supplement as per your doctor’s advice and consume it as directed in the recommended quantities. Excess consumption of protein supplements may have long-term side-effects and could lead to weight gain.”
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and reviewer of health and nutrition products, has compiled this list of the best protein powders for weight loss and muscle gain after going through numerous product listings and detailed reviews by verified reviewers. She has also added a detailed buying guide, a section on how protein is essential to our diet, and some pointers regarding choosing the right product. These protein powders are safe for consumption and will help you meet your fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is protein good for weight loss and muscle gain?
Consuming protein can help with fat mass loss, weight loss, and preservation of lean muscle (3). Proteins take longer to digest, so they can keep you satiated and help you avoid snacks.
2. Which protein supplement is best for belly fat loss?
Increasing your protein intake may help you shed fat. Tofu, eggs, legumes, meat, and nuts are some good protein sources (4).
3. How much protein should I have in a day to lose weight?
The amount of protein needed for the body may differ for each individual. On average, you may require 50 grams of protein per day if you consume 2,000 calories daily. Athletes or vigorous exercisers should consume one to 1.5 grams per pound of their goal weight (5).
4. Does protein burn fat without exercise?
Yes, to some extent. Your body burns calories while the food is being digested. So when you eat protein or protein-based food, you burn more calories and help burn fat (5).
5. What happens if I eat too much protein?
Your body cannot store the additional protein you consume. Once it meets its need, it stores the additional protein as fat. Excessive protein consumption may pose a risk to the kidneys and also lead to elevated blood lipids and heart problems (6).
6. Can I gain muscle without protein powder?
Yes, you can gain muscle without protein powder if you get the right amount of protein required for your body from your diet.
7. How many protein shakes should I drink a day?
This depends on how active you are during the day. An individual who does workouts and goes to the gym may need one to two protein shakes, while athletes and heavy exercisers may need three to four protein shakes.
The Bottom Line
Protein supplements have become an essential part of the fitness journey. It is essential to consume the best protein for weight loss and muscle gain when trying to stay fit. Best results are obtained if the right protein is consumed in the required quantities with the right workout regimen.We recommend the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard (pure whey) and Garden Of Life Meal Replacement (vegan). Also, consider USDA Organic-certified Orgain Organic Protein for organic preferences. You may also opt for expert-backed protein supplements to incorporate them into your balanced diet to induce weight loss and muscle building. Avoid taking protein supplements in excess quantities since it can impact your health.
Infographic: Advice For Selecting Protein Powders
Protein powder is a popular supplement among gym enthusiasts and sportspersons as it can fulfill protein and calorie demands and keep hunger pangs away. Look through the following infographic to learn a few tips for choosing a protein powder that can help in losing weight while gaining muscle mass.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
References
- The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275667598_The_role_of_protein_in_weight_loss_and_maintenance - The PROMOTE study (High-protein and resistance-training combination in overweight and obesity) for short-term weight loss and long-term weight maintenance for Chinese people: a protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
https://trialsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13063-019-3954-7 - The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25926512/ - A high-protein diet for reducing body fat: mechanisms and possible caveats
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4258944/ - 4 Ways Protein Can Help You Shed Pounds
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-protein-to-eat-to-lose-weight/ - Are you getting too much protein?
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/are-you-getting-too-much-protein - Comparative Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Concentrated Hydrolyzed and Isolated Whey Protein Supplementation on Body Composition of Physical Activity Practitioners
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6769754/
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