No time to read the entire review and just want to find out what the best whey protein powder for weight loss is? We recommend Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Double Rich Chocolate as the best overall choice.
Using protein powders gives you a simple way to get the right amount of essential macronutrients in your daily diet, especially if you’re trying to lose weight.
Protein is the key to your body’s ability to create hormones and enzymes, repair tissue, and develop lean muscles. Moreover, protein has a big role to play in weight loss.
Nutritionists and diet experts claim that this macronutrient keeps you feeling satisfied and full, which can prevent you from snacking in between meals and packing unnecessary calories into your diet.
Don’t have time to read the entire review? Here’s a quick look at our favorite whey protein powders for weight loss:
Furthermore, supplementing with protein powders can help fill the nutrient deficits of a meal, according to dietician Alyssa Ravy. These supplements can stand in for a meal, or add extra flavor and texture to your drink.
All that said, with the wide array of protein powders available out there, how do you choose the one that’s right for your needs? Considering that not all protein powders are manufactured equally, which one should you go for?
Numerous studies have been done on the health benefits of whey protein.
Whey protein powder is considered to be the best among the different types of protein supplements. The amino acids in whey are quickly absorbed by the body. Plus, it contains other nutrients that provide you with positive health benefits.
But what is whey protein powder, really?
In this article, we will discuss what whey protein powder actually is, the different types of whey protein powders, what its health benefits are, and how to choose the best whey protein supplement. Plus, we will present to you our review of the seven best whey protein powders for weight loss.
Before we give you the review, here’s a quick profile of what whey protein power is.
And if you’re looking for more habits to help you lose weight, then watch our video on healthy morning routine habits to help you lose weight:
What Is Whey Protein Powder?
There are two types of proteins that can be found in milk: casein and whey. Whey is the liquid portion of milk that separates from the solid during the production of cheese.
This liquid can then be turned into powder to create a whey protein powder. Because it contains all nine essential amino acids, whey is considered to be a complete protein. It contains between 15 and 50 grams of protein.
Manufacturers add flavor to the whey powder to minimize the natural whey flavor and make the protein powder taste better.
The Types of Whey Protein
There are different reduce blood pressure powders, and the way they are processed provides the difference. Whey protein concentrate is often used because it is inexpensive and easy to make.
It is also typically the best-tasting whey protein, which makes it attractive to buyers.
This type of whey protein contains about 25%-89% protein, and is usually made into protein drinks and bars, as well as baked goods.
On the other hand, whey protein isolate contains about 90% protein because it undergoes multiple ion-exchange and microfiltration processes.
It has the least amount of fat and carbs out of the three types of whey protein. A standard serving of whey protein isolate will have about 53 grams of pure protein and 2 grams of carbs. Whey protein concentrate is usually the best option for people who just want to improve their health and maintain their fitness.
However, if you are a bodybuilder or an extreme athlete, you might prefer whey isolate because of its high protein content per serving and limited amount of carbs, fats, and calories.
Additionally, whey isolate has been known to stimulate a better insulin response than whey concentrate, meaning it helps keep your blood sugar levels more stable. Because the proteins have been broken down in whey protein isolate, this is the preferred source for people who are lactose-intolerant.
Finally, the most processed option is hydrolysate. It goes through additional stages of processing to break down the proteins so they are more easily digested. This is preferred by people who are lactose intolerant or who have issues with gas and bloating. Hydrolyzed whey protein contains 80% to 90% protein.
It is usually used for infant formula and sports nutrition products. Because it has been “pre-digested,” it is easier for your body to absorb this type of protein powder.
While regular whey powder is a “fast-acting” protein that can be digested within 30 minutes, hydrolyzed whey can be absorbed even faster.
So while all three types of whey can increase muscle size, strength, and recovery speed if they are consumed after lifting weights, hydrolyzed whey increases the availability of amino acids to stimulate the synthesis of muscle protein more effectively.
What Are the Health Benefits of Whey Protein Powder?
Whey protein is a functional food that your body can use to stay healthy. Many of the health benefits of this protein are due to the fact that it has a complete amino acid profile, making it a high-quality, easily digestible source of protein.
It also contains antioxidant substances that promote overall health and wellness.
One of the most sought-after benefits of whey protein is its potential to help you increase your muscle mass and strength. Studies have shown that using whey protein on a daily basis is more effective in promoting muscle gains than soy protein.
This is due to whey’s high quality and its concentration of amino acids that help your body increase protein synthesis when used with resistance training.
Whey protein is also effective in promoting weight loss and reducing insulin sensitivity. Because having a lower sensitivity to insulin means that your blood sugar will remain stable throughout the day, you are less likely to experience sugar crashes that send you running for snacks.
In fact, taking protein as a replacement for other sources of calories cuts food and sugar cravings by up to 60%, promotes feelings of fullness, and prevents you from reaching for those midday snacks.
Finally, lactokinins, the bioactive peptides in whey protein, are thought to possibly lower blood pressure in people whose blood pressure is high, which is another physical health benefit of whey protein. When compared to consuming more carbohydrates, eating more protein can help reduce blood pressure more effectively.
The physical health benefits of consuming whey protein are clear, but did you know that it can also benefit your mental health? Alpha-lactalbumin, an active component in whey protein, can help reduce levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase your brain’s production of serotonin.
Altering these chemicals in the body can help mitigate conditions such as stress and depression for people. As a by-product of milk, whey protein also contains tryptophan, which is a known component that lowers stress levels and improves mood.
Now that you know why you should choose whey protein, how do you know which whey protein to choose?
Tips for Choosing the Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss
First, look for a product with a high biological value, which refers to how well the body can absorb the protein powder.
You want your body to absorb the protein well so it will use it as fuel rather than just allow it to pass through your body. This will help you stay full for several hours. In order to stay satiated, you also want to avoid products with added sugar.
Choose only products that have very little or no sugar in them, otherwise the protein powder will cause you to have a spike in blood sugar, which will lead to a crash, making you hungry later on.
In addition to checking for sugar, make sure to check the calorie count of your protein because powders with a high calorie content can bomb your weight-loss efforts.
If you are focused on weight loss, steer clear of branch-chained components of amino acids because they tend to increase muscle mass instead of help you lose weight.
Branch-chained amino acids act as building blocks for protein, so if you don’t want that foundational muscle to build upon, try to avoid consuming them in excess through supplements. However, you do want to make sure that your product is high in protein so that it will keep you full.
Finally, if you are lactose intolerant, make sure to check the ingredients on your powder to see if it contains any milk products. Avoid casein or lactose, and look for a powder that has other ingredients that your body will not have an adverse reaction to during digestion.
Now that you have an idea of what you are looking for, let’s look at some of the best products that are on the market today.
7 Best Whey Protein Powders for Weight Loss
1. Best Overall Choice: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Double Rich Chocolate
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is the best choice overall. Each serving delivers 24 grams of protein and only 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of sugar, and 1 gram of fat, which is perfect for people who are trying to lose weight.
The list of ingredients is short, which many people appreciate as well. This product contains a blend of whey protein isolates, concentrate, and peptides, as well as cocoa, lecithin, acesulfame K (an enzyme), lactase, and natural and artificial flavors. Even though whey peptides tend to be expensive, this product is priced very reasonably.
This protein is tasty without being overwhelmingly sweet or too strongly flavored. Its taste is closer to dark chocolate than milk chocolate. It mixes and dissolves easily with both water and milk, making it easy to simply shake up in a cup with your choice of liquid.
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2. Runner-Up Option: Dymatize ISO 100 Whey Protein Powder Isolate – Orange Dreamsicle
The Dymatize ISO 100 Whey Protein Powder Isolate – Orange Dreamsicle is a cleaner protein than other whey concentrate products on the market today. It is also more affordable than most, and is certainly the best-tasting protein powder. Each serving has 25 grams of protein and 110 calories, which won’t ruin your diet.
This powder mixes easily into your liquid of choice. It is powdery, but not chalky. Users are instructed to mix one scoop of this powder with five to six ounces of water or almond milk, and it will quickly dissolve.
This supplement has a good ratio of essential components, and uses a high-quality protein, making it more costly than other options. However, the product does have more value than some cheaper brands due to its high-quality ingredients, so it is important to take that into consideration.
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3. Best Value for the Money: Orgain Grass-Fed Clean Whey Protein Powder, Vanilla Bean
If you prefer to focus on the best protein foods for weight loss, the Orgain Grass-Fed Clean Whey Protein Powder, Vanilla Bean might be the right option for you because it fits in well with a clean-eating diet. This is a great option for vegetarians who want to eat clean but also want to get some more protein incorporated into their diets.
It is made using only grass-fed whey protein that is sourced directly from New Zealand. This top-quality, grass-fed protein helps reduce the free radicals in your body. Grass-fed whey concentrate is best for people who can tolerate dairy and want to have something to prevent them from snacking throughout the day.
Due to its lactoferrin, immunoglobulin, and serum albumin, grass-fed whey is a functional protein that your body can use for fuel.
Each serving of this ultra-clean protein powder contains 21 grams of whey protein and no added sugar. This gives you 42% of your recommended daily protein. It is a low-carb option with 20% of your daily recommended dietary fiber content included in each serving.
This product is also low in fat and carbs and high in fiber, which can help you eat less, lose weight, and keep heart disease at bay.
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4. Most Budget-Friendly: Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder is budget-friendly because a little bit goes a long way, as whey protein is quickly and easily digested in your body. This is a relatively high-calorie blend (400 calories per serving, which is two large scoops) that includes creatine, taurine, and extra glutamine.
This “Super Recovery Blend” is great for athletes to drink post-workout to help facilitate muscle recovery and gains.
You can get a full 9 servings (2 scoops each) for $22.63, or you could break them up into smaller, 200-calorie servings that would still offer your body ample protein. The full serving of 60 grams of protein comes from two whey sources, whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, which helps keep you satiated between meals.
This mix also includes 12 grams of BCAAs (branched chain amino acids), which are a group of essential amino acids (meaning your body can’t produce them on its own)–leucine, isoleucine and valine. BCAA supplements are typically used to help build muscle, reduce muscle fatigue, and relieve muscle soreness.
This blend includes vitamins and minerals such as 263 mg of calcium, 230 mg of phosphorus, 62 mg of magnesium, and 520 mg of potassium. However, unlike some other protein blends, it does not contain aspartame or gluten.
This protein powder mixes easily into your cold liquid of choice, but should be consumed within ten minutes of incorporating the powder to prevent separation. It offers a mild flavor that is not overpowering, so many users have reported that they don’t get “tired” of drinking this protein mix week after week.
Furthermore, it is offered in several flavors, including strawberry, chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, banana creme, cinnamon swirl, cookies and cream, and vanilla.
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5. Best Meal Replacement Option: RSP TrueFit – Grass Fed Lean Meal Replacement Protein Shake
RSP TrueFit is a nutritious protein shake that is high in fiber and offers a unique focus on gut health, making it an easily digestible meal replacement option. It contains clean, grass-fed ingredients, high quality fats (such as MCT oil), and prebiotic fiber, making this a meal replacement option that you can feel good about drinking.
Each scoop offers 25 grams of protein, 8 grams of fiber (in the form of prebiotic soluble fiber and sweet potato powder), and 3 grams of healthy fat, 5g of naturally occurring BCAAs, and 12 grams of carbohydrates, which will help keep you full for hours.
It also has 4 grams of natural glutamine and glutamic acid, which makes this a good option for a post-workout recovery shake. And, at just 160 calories, you can choose to drink this option as a filling snack or consume additional scoops for a more substantial meal.
Part of what makes this an ideal shake for meal replacement is its nutritional profile. It provides you with 30% of the recommended daily amount of a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, C, D, E, biotin, and magnesium, giving your body the nutrition that you need to stay healthy and energetic.
It is also made using a superfood blend of 12 whole foods, including berries, carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, etc., which can help ensure you get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, it contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, making this a healthy option.
The protein in this blend is a mixture of whey isolate and whey concentrate, giving your body an effective dose of protein that will keep you satiated. The whey comes from pasture-raised cows that are never treated with growth hormones, rBST, or rBGH, so you can be sure you’re getting a clean source of protein.
It also offers 7 digestive enzymes so it is easily digested and absorbed–which means the nutrition in this protein powder is bioavailable and will be used by your body rather than just flushed through your system. In addition to the enzymes, there are 1 billion probiotic bacteria, which will also help ensure your digestive health.
Because this option has a lot of digestive benefits, it’s perfect for those who are new to using meal-replacement shakes. While some whey protein options lead to side effects such as bloating and stomach cramps, this protein powder is easier on the stomach, ensuring your gut health will remain unharmed.
This product offers you a complete source of nutrition in an easily dissolvable, powder form, making it a convenient option for your meal replacement needs.
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6. Best Whey Protein for Women: IdealLean Protein
IdealLean Protein Powder was created to meet women’s unique nutritional needs with just 80 calories per serving. However, with 20 grams of whey protein isolate, you can be sure to feel satiated for hours after drinking this smooth, healthy shake. It’s gentle on the stomach and contains some additional vitamins and minerals to help keep women healthy.
The most beneficial vitamin for women in IdealLean that’s not in many protein powders is folic acid. While you may think this is a vitamin that women only need when trying to maintain a healthy pregnancy, folic acid (vitamin B9) is one of many powerful nutrients that your body uses to properly function.
Consuming sufficient folic acid ensures you will continuously produce healthy cells in all of your organs. And, unlike fat soluble vitamins that remain stored in your body, folic acid is water soluble, meaning you need to constantly replenish it to be sure that you always have enough in your system.
In addition to folic acid, this protein powder will also supply you with:
- 10 mcg of vitamin D (which is half of your recommended daily amount)
- 30 mg of sodium
- 0 grams of fat
- 100 mg of potassium
- 100 mg of calcium
- 0.1 mg of iron
IdealLean protein powder comes in several flavor options, including french vanilla and chocolate brownie, in addition to some more unique and tropical options such as pina colada, cake batter, strawberries & cream, and chocolate coconut.
Users report that these flavors do not have a strong odor or aftertaste, and the finely milled powder easily mixes in with any liquid of your choice, leaving behind no clumps or grittiness. Additionally, many women love sprinkling this protein powder on their Greek yogurt or oatmeal for an extra boost of protein–and some even use it to make fudge.
The ingredients in IdealLean include:
- Whey protein isolate
- Sunflower lecithin
- Natural flavoring
- Calcium carbonate
- Sucralose
- Cholecalciferol
- Chromium picolinate
- Folic acid
This delicious high-protein, low-sugar, low-carb shake is ideal for either a pre- or post-workout protein boost. IdealLean contains two unique and beneficial nutrient blends: a fat-loss blend and a recovery blend.
These ingredients work together to help you lose excess body weight and recover quickly after your workouts so you can keep making progress toward the body you want. Rich in antioxidants, IdealLean provides you with a balanced blend of essential nutrients to help increase your stamina, energy, and endurance while helping you live an active lifestyle.
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7. Best for Building Muscle: Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey Protein Powder is a dairy-based protein that supports lean muscle gain by providing your body with extra protein. With more muscle mass, your body can burn calories more effectively and efficiently, so it can lead to weight loss.
This is the best whey protein powder for building muscle mass, making it perfect for bodybuilders.
This protein powder has 30 grams of a whey protein isolate and hydrolysate blend, with added micronized, branched-chain amino acids. With the addition of “pre-digested” protein molecules in the form of hydrolysate, your body is able to use the protein more readily, making absorption quicker than that of a basic isolate or concentrate.
This product can easily be mixed with your liquid of choice using any type of shaker bottle. It dissolves quickly and is not gritty or chalky once it is mixed into liquid. This shake provides you with 30 grams of protein per serving, and branched-chain amino acids on top of that.
Due to the high quality of protein, many users find that their muscle soreness decreases after they start using this supplement.
The price of this product is fair for a hydrolyzed whey isolate. At about a dollar per serving, it is a valuable way to add muscle to your body.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Whey Protein Powders for Weight Loss
All of the whey protein powders for weight loss reviewed today are the best products in each of their categories. But Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Double Rich Chocolate is the best overall choice for flavor, ingredients, and protein content.
If you are looking for a protein supplement for weight loss, this is a great option to try to help you stay full and eat less throughout the day without feeling like you are depriving yourself.
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