8 best protein powders for weight loss 2024, expert reviewed
Legion Casein+ is our pick for the best casein protein powder for weight loss because it’s a clean supplement with 23 to 26 grams of protein and 110 to 140 calories per serving. It also has less than 1 gram of fat and only 3 grams of carbs and is an excellent source of calcium.
Milk protein is 80% casein and 20% whey. (
5
) Like whey, casein is a high-quality protein with all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth in response to resistance exercise. However, the body digests and absorbs casein more slowly than whey, and why many people prefer whey protein powder over casein immediately after a workout. (
5
) But casein helps build muscles too, and can help you achieve your body goals.
Casein also helps with weight management by suppressing the appetite. In some studies, it works better at decreasing hunger than whey, but research is mixed. (
6
) Many people take casein supplements before bed because it as it supports positive changes in muscle while you sleep, it doesn’t appear to hinder the release and use of fat for energy as you dream away. (
6
) Its like the best of both worlds when it comes to making positive changes in body composition.
Supplementing with casein protein powder like the one from Legion boosts dietary protein intake and can improve body composition when combined with a muscle-building workout.
Our product testers had mixed reviews for Legion Casein+. One tester said it mixed well but separated after 20 minutes. Another tester said the texture was a normal thickness, but they didn’t like the chalky aftertaste.
Legion Casein+ has a very short ingredient list and no artificial ingredients or added sugar, using stevia to make it sweet. Though a bit pricier than other protein powders, Legion has a subscribe and save program that reduces your cost. They also offer a money-back guarantee.
According to the Legion website, every bottle of Casein+ is analyzed for potency and purity at an accredited lab, directing you to click a link to see the most recent Certificate of Analysis (CoA).
Legion earned a high rating for creating a clean casein protein powder with a small list of ingredients, having third-party testing, and openly sharing the CoA so consumers can check for safety.
Many Amazon customers say Legion Casein+ is the best casein protein powder available. They say it mixes well and keeps them satiated overnight.
According to verified Amazon purchaser Tyler F., “Taste is very nice and not overly sweet when mixed with water or milk.”
People warn that the powder is very fine and can get messy. Verified Amazon buyer Alicia H. says, “This powder is really fine and can easily go *poof* and make a mess while you’re scooping.”
Pros
Whey, keto, and plant-based formula options
Contains all essential amino acids
Suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets
Cons
Limited servings in a package (14 servings)
Why we like Gainful Protein Powder as best unflavored
Gainful Protein Powder is unlike any of the other protein powders on our list. With Gainful, you get the mix, match, and modify your protein formula, giving your body exactly what it needs. This includes an unflavored option that’s customized to your goals, making the list of the best unflavored protein powders for weight loss.
Protein is a critical component of many
weight loss programs
, as it supports muscle maintenance while helping to manage hunger. (
7
) Gainful’s weight loss formula is a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake without adding extra carbs or unnecessary ingredients.
The specialized protein formula uses whey protein isolate for protein, keeping carbs low and protein high. It uses medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil powder and sunflower lecithin to increase fat. MCT oil is a type of saturated fat that’s easier to absorb than other fats. However, it can have unpleasant side effects like abdominal pain, gas, vomiting, or diarrhea. (
8
)
Though this formula is unflavored, Gainful has single-serving flavor boosters you can add to protein shakes. Depending on the flavor, adding a booster to your keto-friendly protein shake increases carbs by 1 to 2 grams.
In addition to customized protein powders, Gainful gives customers free access to registered dietitians for expert guidance on their health journey. However, “free” access to dietitians kind of explains the high price of this protein powder. At $3.21 per serving, Gainful Protein Powder is one of the more expensive choices on our list.
Though we appreciate the use of natural ingredients and access to experts, Gainful lost points since it lacks third-party testing.
What customers are saying
Most Trustpilot reviewers like Gainful Protein Powder. They say it’s easy to mix and doesn’t taste chalky.
Anjie L. says, “I enjoy the subtle flavor of the mixes alone as they are (usually with soy or coconut milk), but sometimes like to play with a flavor boost.”
Verified buyer Ian G. likes Gainful’s transparency and knowing exactly what’s in the supplement.
Most complaints centered around shipping and subscriptions. Tricia K. was unhappy that shipping took 9 business days, and Kristina P. didn’t like that she was charged for a second order when she selected the one-time purchase option.
Specs
|
Protein type |
Whey protein isolate |
|
Protein per serving |
19 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
140 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$3.21 |
|
Serving size |
30 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
No |
|
Rating |
4/5 |
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is an affordable, plant-based protein powder rich in essential amino acids and iron.
Key product features
High protein
20 grams
Calories
Low
Ingredients
One
Flavors
Unflavored
What you should know
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein checks a majority of our boxes, including third-party testing, minimal ingredients, and effectiveness.
-
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a plant-based protein that supports muscle growth and weight loss.
-
At $0.43 per serving, Nutricost pea protein powder is one of the most affordable protein powders on our list.
-
This protein powder is best suited for people who follow a plant-based diet and have a hard time consuming more protein.
-
One serving of Nutricost Organic Pea Protein provides 30% of the daily value for iron.
Pros
Suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets
Cons
Only one flavor (unflavored)
Why we like Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate as best organic
Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a one-ingredient protein powder, earning our pick for the best organic protein powder. One serving provides 20 grams of protein and only 100 calories. It’s also low in fat and carbs and provides 30% of the daily value for iron.
Peas are a legume naturally rich in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Manufacturers make pea protein from yellow peas by separating the starch and other nutrients from the protein, creating a protein-rich powder. (
9
) Pea protein isolate is further processed, removing most of the carbohydrates to create a powder with a higher concentration of protein.
According to research, plant proteins—like pea protein—offer many health benefits like keeping you full, maintaining energy, and lowering cholesterol. (
10
)
But how can pea protein help with weight loss? While research is limited, a small study found that pea protein had the same effect on appetite and metabolism as whey protein. (
11
) Though more research is needed, pea protein isolate seems to provide similar weight-loss benefits as whey protein, especially when total daily protein needs are met, which are higher for people managing their calories and exercising to lose weight and/or lean out.
Nutricost’s plant protein is certified USDA organic and made sustainably without harmful pesticides or fertilizers. (
12
) It’s also gluten-free and third-party tested.
At $0.43 a serving, the organic pea protein powder is a great value and the cheapest protein powder on our list. However, Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate only comes unflavored. This might give you more freedom in creating your own flavors, or you may want a protein powder that only needs water or plant milk.
One downside of Nutricost’s supplement is that pea protein powder has a beany smell and bitter flavor that some people find off-putting. Instead of drinking it in a shake, try adding it to savory dishes like soup, casseroles, and tofu. Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate is a simple, inexpensive, plant-based protein made from organic ingredients, which is why we believe it’s one of the best. However, none of this matters if you don’t like the taste.
What customers are saying
Customers who buy Nutricost Organic Pea Protein Isolate say they like the price, protein quality, and taste.
Donny D., a verified Amazon shopper, notes it’s “cheaper than other popular brands with good ingredients.” Donny says the taste isn’t great and recommends blending it with a banana.
Amazon shopper WCP writes, “This protein powder is much less gritty and icky tasting than any other one I tried.”
Specs
|
Protein type |
Organic pea protein isolate |
|
Protein per serving |
20 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
100 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$0.43 |
|
Serving size |
24 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
Yes |
|
Rating |
4.3/5 |
This is a high-protein, plant-based meal replacement drink that provides a healthy dose of essential nutrients in every serving.
Key product features
High protein
25 grams
Ingredients
Natural
Fiber
4–7 grams
Flavors
Unflavored
What you should know
Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake is a one-stop shop for protein and weight loss. It’s a meal replacement drink packed with nutrition to keep you full and energized.
-
Ka’Chava is a nutrient-packed, high-protein meal replacement shake made with natural ingredients.
-
Compared to the other protein powders, the Ka’Chava shake is quite expensive at $4.67 per serving. However, it’s a complete meal.
-
If you’re looking for a high-protein vegan meal replacement to help you reach your weight goals, then Ka’Chava All-In-One Nutrition Shake may work for you.
-
Ka’Chava has a subscribe and save program that brings the cost down to $4.00 a serving.
Pros
High-protein meal replacement
Suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets
No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
Cons
Expensive at $4.67 per serving
Contains tree nuts (coconut)
Processed in a plant with milk, wheat, and soy
Why we like Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake as best meal replacement
The makers of Ka’Chava Nutrition Shake designed the meal replacement drink to fit busy lives. It’s a delicious, high-protein, plant-based drink made from all-natural ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. The
multinutrient shake
also contains prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health and chia seeds and flaxseeds for fiber and omega-3s.
One serving, two scoops of powder, has 240 calories, 25 grams of protein, 21–25 grams of carbs, and 7–8 grams of fat. It also supplies more than 50% of the daily value for many vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and E, folate, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
It’s also an excellent source of vitamin B12, a nutrient only found in meat products and difficult to obtain on a vegan diet. (
13
) One serving of the Ka’Chava nutrition shake is also an excellent source of calcium, iron, and fiber.
The protein in the meal replacement shake comes from a plant-based protein blend consisting of yellow pea protein, organic whole grain brown rice protein, organic sacha inchi (a seed), organic amaranth, and organic quinoa.
Meal replacement shakes are an effective weight-loss tool. (
14
) They help keep calories in check and relieve the stress of figuring out what to eat.
Though Ka’Chava shakes are an excellent source of essential nutrients, the makers recommend not using them to replace every meal but one or two. Replacing some of your meals with a nutrient-rich shake helps you feel more in control over your eating while giving you an opportunity to create healthy eating habits that lead to long-term weight management. (
14
)
Ka’Chava nutrition shakes come in five flavors: chocolate, vanilla, coconut acai, chai, and matcha. Each bag has 15 servings, so if you’re replacing one meal a day, you may need at least two bags a month.
At $4.67 a serving, Ka’Chava is pricey. But they have a subscribe and save program, lowering the price to $4.00 a serving with a standing monthly order.
The meal replacement weight loss shake is made in a plant that processes wheat, milk, and soy. So this wholesome meal replacement may not work if you’re allergic to any of these foods.
What customers are saying
Customers like the taste, convenience, and nutrition of Ka’Chava but are unsure about the price.
On Amazon, verified buyer Jon S. said it tastes great and mixes well with plant milk but is too expensive.
Yabba Dabba, another verified purchaser on Amazon, says, “I am thoroughly impressed with its effectiveness. Not only does it keep hunger at bay, but it also provides a noticeable boost in energy.”
Not everyone likes the taste of the nutrition shake, however. Crystal C. writes that it’s too thick and has an unpleasant aftertaste.
Specs
|
Protein type |
Yellow Pea Protein, Organic Whole Grain Brown Rice Protein, Organic Sacha Inchi Protein, Organic Amaranth, Organic Quinoa |
|
Protein per serving |
25 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
240 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$4.67 |
|
Serving size |
60–62 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
Yes |
|
Rating |
4/5 |
Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is a clean, plant-based protein powder designed for vegans who want to build muscle.
Key product features
High protein
20 grams
Fat
Low
Carbs
3 grams
Sweetener
Monk fruit
Flavors
Vanilla
What you should know
Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is a high-quality plant protein powder made from natural, all-vegan ingredients. It distinguishes itself from other protein supplements by sharing the origin of each ingredient.
-
Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ adds L-methionine, an essential amino acid, to improve the amino acid profile.
-
At $2.67 per serving, Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is more expensive than other protein powders.
-
This vegan protein is designed to support lean muscle and strength while providing a complete amino acid profile.
Pros
No artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
Cons
Only available in vanilla flavor
Why we like Ritual Essential Protein Shake as best vegan
We selected Ritual as the best vegan protein powder for weight loss because of its nutrition profile, added amino acids for muscle growth, and supply chain transparency. One serving of Ritual Essential Protein has 20 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fat, and 115 calories.
Ritual uses organic pea protein made from yellow peas and sourced from regenerative farms in their formula. Regenerative farms use farming methods that focus on keeping the soil healthy and diverse. (
15
)
Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ adds L-methionine to the pea protein to complete the amino acid profile. L-methionine is an essential amino acid, so it must come from food. (
16
) Plant-based proteins like pea tend to have lower amounts of L-methionine than animal-based proteins. (
16
) By adding L-methionine, Ritual’s pea protein powder provides all the amino acids necessary to repair and build lean muscle. Choline, a helper nutrient for L-methionine, is also included in Ritual’s formula.
Ritual uses fermented sugar cane and monk fruit—two natural, low-calorie sweeteners—to create flavor without added sugar, stevia, or sugar alcohol. This helps keep Ritual’s protein powder low in carbs while minimizing problems like a bitter aftertaste.
Though Ritual Essential Protein is a great protein powder for adults following a vegan or dairy-free diet, It isn’t a good fit for people with tree nut allergies. The powder contains MCT oil from organic coconuts, a tree nut.
One serving of Ritual’s plant-based protein costs $2.67. In addition to the higher price, Ritual may also requires more effort to prepare. Instructions on the website suggest using a shaker bottle or blender to get the best results, rather than stirring the protein powder in a glass.
One last downside of the Ritual’s protein powder is that it only comes in one flavor: vanilla.
What customers are saying
People who buy Ritual from Amazon say they like that it’s a plant-based protein powder that provides all the amino acids, but they have trouble with taste and blending.
Kate, a verified purchaser, gives Essential Protein Daily Shake a five-star review, writing, “This is a super clean product. I love that it doesn’t have stevia because I’m intolerant, and everyone seems to put that in everything now. The taste is great, and the texture is great.”
Another buyer, KC MCG, agrees with Kate, noting it’s the
best protein powder
they’ve tried.
Nancy G., on the other hand, says the protein powder lacks flavor, is too thick, and was disappointed about the no-refund policy.
Specs
|
Protein type |
Organic pea protein |
|
Protein per serving |
20 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
115 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$2.67 |
|
Serving size |
30 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
Yes |
|
Rating |
4/5 |
Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is a clean, plant-based protein powder designed for vegans who want to build muscle.
Key product features
High protein
25 grams
Fat
Low
Carbs
Low
Sweetener
Stevia/sucralose
What you should know
Jacked Factory Authentic Iso Cinnamon French Toast is a great-tasting and budget-friendly protein powder featuring high-quality whey protein isolate.
-
Our testers really enjoyed the flavor of this protein powder, raving about its taste and consistency.
-
At $1.33 a serving, Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is priced below average, making it a good value.
-
If you’re looking for a delicious post-workout shake, this is the protein powder for you.
-
This protein powder contains artificial flavors and sweeteners like sucralose.
Pros
Contains grass-fed whey protein isolate
Low in carbs, sugar, and fat
Provides 25 grams of complete protein
Cons
Contains artificial sweeteners
Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets
Why we like Jacked Factory Authentic Iso as best tasting
Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is an affordable, high-quality protein powder that helps repair and build muscle after an intense workout. Beyond the benefits of the whey protein isolate, this protein powder for weight loss made our list for its delicious taste. Our testers really liked the Cinnamon French Toast flavor, noting that the taste is pleasant and smooth with the right amount of sweetness.
Jacked Factory Authentic Iso is also one of the least expensive protein powders on our list. Like Transparent Labs, it’s made with grass-fed whey protein isolate, providing high-quality protein and all the amino acids for maintaining and gaining muscle. However, it costs about $0.70 less per serving than Transparent Labs.
If you follow a weight-training program, this protein powder is for you. The whey protein isolate is easy to digest and goes straight to the muscles. Taking whey protein isolate combined with weight training is proven to increase muscle strength and size.
(17
)
Adding more muscle is beneficial on a weight-loss plan because it is a key player is maximizing your resting metabolism, allowing you to burn calories effectively throughout the day (
7
). Moreover, ensuring adequate protein, combined with resistance exercise to maintain and perhaps build some muscle, will enable your best metabolism to help you maintain your healthy weight.
When using protein powder for weight loss, incorporate the supplement into your diet so you stay within your ideal calorie range. Adding protein shakes without modifying your diet may lead to weight gain.
Another thing we liked about Jacked Factory Authentic Iso protein powder is its short list of ingredients. However, unlike some of the other protein powders for weight loss, the Jacked Factory protein supplement has artificial ingredients like sucralose.
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener generally recognized as safe, but some people report bloating and gas when eating or drinking foods sweetened with sucralose. (
8
) Jacked Factors also uses stevia to sweeten the protein powder. Stevia is a natural low-calorie sweetener, but it has a bitter aftertaste that may make it harder for you to enjoy the taste of the delicious protein supplement.
Another shortcoming of Jacked Factor Authentic Iso is that it doesn’t have third-party testing for quality and safety. The FDA doesn’t regulate supplements, and it’s up to the manufacturer to make sure their product is safe. (
9
) Third-party testing means the ingredients in the bottle match what you read on the label.
Though we loved the flavor of this protein powder, we had to give it a lower rating because of the artificial ingredients and lack of testing.
What customers are saying
Customers who purchase Jacked Factory Authentic Iso give it rave reviews. They like its creamy texture and taste and how well it mixes with water and milk.
Theodore M., a verified Amazon buyer, says, “I love the flavor, but obviously, this is personal preference, as some reviewers do not like it. It is a bit on the sweeter side. I use this protein as an in-between-meal supplement. I am always hungry, especially on gym days, so this is great for me.”
Mag is another verified Amazon purchaser who says the cinnamon French toast flavor is a morning staple. “This is one of the best-tasting proteins I’ve tried, it tastes exactly like French toast.”
Most customers critical of the protein powder say it’s too sweet. “The flavors of this protein are less balanced (very sweet) than other whey protein powders I have tasted,” says Amazon customer Scott M.
Specs
|
Protein type |
Whey protein isolate |
|
Protein per serving |
25 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
110 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$1.33 |
|
Serving size |
30.5 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
No |
|
Rating |
3.7/5 |
At $1.31 per serving, Sports Research Whey Protein is a budget-friendly, high-quality whey protein powder for weight loss.
Key product features
High protein
25 grams
Carbs
2–4 grams
Sugar
Low
Fat
3.5–4 grams
Flavors
2
What you should know
With 25 grams of protein in each serving, Sports Research Whey Protein powder packs in high-quality protein at a great price.
-
Sports Research Whey Protein is a high-quality protein powder with 6.9 grams of BCAAs and 1,000 milligrams of leucine focused on maintaining and building lean muscle.
-
At $1.46 per serving with the 2.1-pound bag or $1.09 per serving with the 5.1-pound bag, this high-quality protein powder fits any budget.
-
This product contains 25 grams of protein, 6.9 g of BCAAs, and 1,000mg of L-Leuicine, a great option for those who are trying to put on lean muscle while shedding fat.
Pros
High-quality whey protein isolate
High leucine content to support lean muscle
Cons
Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets
Contains tree nuts (coconut)
Why we like Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate as best whey
We like Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate as the best whey protein powder for weight loss because it’s a high-quality supplement without the high price.
Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate is made with quality ingredients. Whey protein isolate is the main ingredient, providing 25 grams of protein. The supplement contains an additional 1,000 milligrams of leucine and supplies 6.9 grams of BCAAs.
Leucine is an essential amino acid and one of the BCAAs. (
3
) It also drives muscle protein synthesis, and taking higher levels of leucine with protein can optimize muscle protein production. (
3
) A recent small study found that supplementing with leucine on a calorie-restricted diet prevented significant losses in muscle tissue in men. (
18
) We don’t recommend adding leucine supplements for weight loss since research is in the very early stages.
One serving of Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate has 140 to 150 calories, 2 to 4 grams of carbs, and 3.5 to 4 grams of fat. The supplement is fortified with vitamin D, meeting 100% of daily needs. It’s also a good source of calcium meeting 11% of needs.
The whey protein powder uses stevia in their vanilla flavor (the Dutch chocolate use sucralose) as a low-calorie, natural sweetener and has MCT oil. Stevia can affect taste, and MCT oil may cause side effects like abdominal pain or diarrhea. This protein supplement isn’t suitable for people on a vegan or dairy-free diet. The Sports Research supplement also contains coconut, so it isn’t safe for people with tree nut allergies.
You can shake, blend, or bake your Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate. It mixes well without clumping. The supplement is third-party tested but only for banned substances, according to the official website.
The smaller 2.1-pound bag costs $1.46 a serving, with 26 servings per bag. If you have the space and flexibility in your budget, buying the larger 5.1-pound bag of protein powder reduces the price to $1.09 a serving, with 63 servings.
The price and protein quality give this protein powder high marks, but flavor options are limited to chocolate and vanilla.
What customers are saying
Amazon reviewers have a lot of good things to say about Sports Research Whey Protein Isolate. They like the taste, ingredients, and the great value for the 5.1-pound bag. Most complaints center around digestive issues like bloating and nausea.
Verified Amazon buyer James writes, “The package is a sturdy bag with a good resealable top, and the scoop inside is large and easy to find and use. I think the taste is great. I don’t get the heavy taste of the whey protein that you get with a lot of other products. I used it in a single-serving shaker, and it blended easily, with no clumps.”
Amazon buyer Callie agrees, noting that it tastes great and mixes easily. However, Callie also writes, “wish it didn’t have the MCT oils and had better macros—but product gives me an upset stomach and major bloating + cramping—wonder if it’s the added fats/MCT.”
Specs
|
Protein type |
Whey protein isolate |
|
Protein per serving |
25 grams |
|
Calories per serving |
140–150 calories |
|
Cost per serving |
$1.09–$1.46 |
|
Serving size |
36–41 grams |
|
Third-party tested |
Yes |
|
Rating |
4/5 |
How we test protein powders
Finding the right supplement that meets health goals and delivers on promised claims requires time and research. On top of that, you need to consider product safety and price.
Dedicated to helping you find the best protein powder for weight loss, we do the leg work for you. Our team tested, evaluated, and fact-checked dozens of protein powders on the market, taking many key factors into consideration, including effectiveness, quality, safety, and price, looking for supplements that rank high in several key areas to create our list of recommendations. Learn more about our
whey protein powder scoring methodology
and
plant-based protein powder methodology
here.
We used the following criteria to score each protein powder:
Protein source—40%
The protein source is important because it affects the product’s digestibility, nutrient profile, and environmental impact. We consider the origin of the protein to ensure it meets vegan standards and provides a high-quality, sustainable option.
Here’s what we look for:
-
Whey
-
Casein
-
Soy
-
Pea
-
Brown rice
-
Hemp
-
Lentil
-
Chia
-
Pumpkin Seed
-
Blend
Complete protein—20%
Whether the protein is complete is crucial for determining if it provides all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and overall health. We consider this to ensure that the product can serve as a reliable, sole protein source without requiring additional supplementation.
Macronutrient calories per serving—15%
The balance of macronutrients per serving is important for managing energy levels, weight, and overall nutrition. We consider these calories to evaluate if the product supports specific dietary goals, such as high-protein or low-carb diets.
Our factors in this rating include:
-
Calories from protein
-
Calories from carbs
-
Calories from fats
Total protein per serving—15%
The amount of protein per serving is a key factor in determining the product’s effectiveness in meeting daily protein needs.
Our factors in this rating include:
-
20 grams of protein or less per serving
-
21 to 30 grams of protein per serving
-
Over 30 grams of protein per serving
Price per gram of protein—5%
Understanding the cost efficiency is important for those who want to manage their budget while meeting their nutritional needs. We consider the price per gram of protein to compare the value of different products.
These are the ranges we consider:
-
$0.30 to $0.50 per gram
-
$0.60 to $0.80 per gram
-
$0.90+ per gram
Sweeteners—5%
Sweeteners play a significant role in the taste, caloric content, and health impact of the product. We consider the type and amount of sweeteners used to evaluate their impact on flavor, their suitability for low-sugar diets, and any potential health implications.
Here are the common ones we evaluate:
-
Sugar
-
Dextrose
-
Honey, agave
-
Stevia
-
Maltodextrin
-
Erythritol
-
Monk fruit
-
Sucralose
-
Aspartame
-
Xylitol, acesulfame
What type of protein powder is best for weight loss?
The best protein powder for weight loss is the one that fits your personal needs and preferences, helping you meet your daily protein targets. Factors such as your dietary requirements, taste preferences, and budget all play a role in choosing the right product. Whey protein is often considered one of the top options for weight loss due to its high-quality amino acid profile, fast absorption, and ability to boost metabolism and satiety. (
4
) However, if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant,
plant-based proteins
like pea, hemp, or brown rice protein can also be effective.
Choosing a protein powder that fits your dietary preferences as well as one with minimal added sugars and fillers will help you avoid unnecessary calories (a key component of weight loss). Ultimately, the best protein powder is one that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle and supports your overall health goals.
What to look for in a protein powder for weight loss
Rather than selecting a protein powder designed for weight loss, look at the ingredients, protein source, nutrition facts, and third-party testing. Choose protein powders that meet your goals and preferences.
Ingredients
Protein powders for weight loss may contain artificial sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, and fillers. Carefully review the ingredient list and choose protein powders that have the type of protein you prefer but without artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, and additives.
Protein sources
Whey and pea protein are common main ingredients in protein powders. Though research suggests whey protein may improve body composition by boosting lean muscle, no single protein source works better than any other for weight loss. (
19
,
20
)
Whey protein powder is popular and highly researched, but if you have a milk allergy, lactose intolerance, or follow a plant-based diet, you may prefer pea protein or a plant-based protein blend.
Nutrition label
Select a protein powder that meets your nutrition goals. A good protein powder for weight loss provides 20 to 40 grams of protein per serving and has little to no added sugar or artificial ingredients. (
21
)
Third-party testing
Supplements don’t go through the same rigorous testing as medications. It’s up to the manufacturer to ensure their product is safe and effective and contains the ingredients in the amounts listed on the label.
Be sure to look for third-party certification labels from organizations like U.S. Pharmacopeia or NSF indicating independent testing of the protein powder.
FAQs
How does protein powder help with weight loss?
Protein powder supports weight loss by curbing hunger, reducing cravings, and maintaining muscle mass. Protein is also more thermogenic, meaning it burns more calories during digestion compared to carbs or fats. (
22
) Additionally, it increases feelings of fullness after consumption, which can help reduce overall calorie intake.
How much protein do I need per day to lose weight?
The amount of protein you need per day to lose weight depends on your lifestyle, eating preferences, and exercise habits. A healthy diet should have about 15-30% of calories from protein. Aiming for closer to 30% of calories from protein may help you lose weight. (
22
)
Will protein powder help burn belly fat?
Protein powder can support weight loss as part of a balanced diet. It helps increase protein intake, which can boost feelings of fullness, support metabolism, and preserve lean muscle mass. While it doesn’t directly target belly fat, it can assist in overall fat loss when combined with regular exercise and healthy eating habits.
When is the best time to use protein powder for weight loss?
Recent research suggests there isn’t a specific best time to take protein powder—what’s most important is meeting your daily protein needs. (
23
) To maximize its benefits, consider how it fits into your goals and routine. For instance, if you work out in the morning, a
post-workout protein shake
can support muscle recovery and keep you full throughout the day. (
23
) Alternatively, it can be used as a snack or
meal replacement
to help control calorie intake and maintain satiety between meals.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Dr. Robert Wildman, Ph.D., RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN
“Dr. Rob” is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sports nutrition and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance, health, and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from Ohio State University, his MS from Florida State University, and his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Stephanie Hope, CSSC, CSMC, CLC
Stephanie Hope has over seven years of experience in product and service journalism, with a focus on sleep and well-being. Not only is she a Certified Sleep Science Coach, but she is also a Certified Stress Management Coach, and Longevity Coach, and is working on becoming a Wellness Coach through the Spencer Institute.
Joana Neziri, MS, NASM–CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Jill Corleone, RD
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
Jill’s life has centered around nutrition and fitness for more than two decades. After earning her bachelor of science in nutrition at New York University in Manhattan, Jill went on to complete her internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark.
She spent the early part of her career working as a clinical dietitian with a focus on pediatric nutrition. She then transitioned into management. Jill began her career as a freelance writer in 2007 while working as a clinical nutrition manager in Florida. She became a full-time writer in 2010 after the birth of her first child.
Jill has written for numerous publications, including Verywellfit, Diabetes Self-Management, Huffington Post, Livestrong.com, and SFGate.
