The best protein powders are primarily used to enhance muscle growth when combined with weight lifting — but they can be used as an effective weight loss tool, too. Studies indicate that a high-protein diet can increase satiety, boost thermogenesis, and increase fat burn during exercise, which could help you spur weight loss if that’s your goal. (1) Of course, protein powders alone won’t do the trick, but when paired with balanced eating, regular exercise, and a sustainable approach to your nutritional plan, they may give you an advantage.
But not all protein powders are formulated to support healthy weight loss, and digging through countless products can be downright confusing. To narrow down your search, our team of qualified testers sampled hundreds of protein powders, compared notes on ingredients, cost, taste, and solubility, and compiled our top picks for the best protein powders for weight loss. Plus, as a registered dietitian, I weighed in on each product’s formulation to explain how it may help you lose weight.
The 9 Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss (2024)
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein
- Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Gainful Plant-Based Protein
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+
- Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate
Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss Video Review
Join BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, and registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, as they break down our picks for the best protein powders for weight loss, from the best-tasting to our favorites for vegans and athletes.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.00
- Protein Source: 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Calories Per Serving: 120-150
- Available Flavors: Milk Chocolate, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, French Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Strawberry Milkshake, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Mocha, Cinnamon French Toast, Blueberry Pancakes, Sugar Cookie
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
Transparent Labs is known for offering high-quality, third-party-tested products made with natural ingredients that you can trust. This whey protein supplement earns its place atop this list thanks to its protein-rich formulation, low fat and carb counts, abundance of flavor options, and excellent solubility.
“I love that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives,” says registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “You get 28 grams of high-quality protein without any unnecessary fluff.” She gave this protein a 4.5 out of 5 for formulation. Plus, each serving only includes 0.5 to 2.5 grams of fat and 1 to 3 grams of carbs depending on the flavor, which is great for those not wanting the extra calories from other macros.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate uses 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate as its sole source of protein. Whey protein isolate is a more refined type of whey protein that’s filtered to remove most of the lactose and fat content. Additionally, studies indicate that supplementing with whey protein isolate may help offer prebiotic benefits that reduce weight gain associated with a high-fat diet. (1)
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, was highly impressed when it came to solubility, rating this product a 5 out of 5 for this category. “I had no hiccups in blending this protein powder with my liquid of choice — typically, water or milk,” they note. “There were no clumps or residue. It’s one of the smoothest protein powders I’ve ever had.”
With 14 flavors to pick from, you won’t get tired of drinking the same one over and over. We’ve enjoyed several flavors of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate, and we haven’t hesitated to rate the taste a perfect 5 out of 5.
A potential downside of this protein powder is the cost. We rate this supplement at 3.5 out of 5 for the $2.00 price per serving, which is higher than most powders on the market (most others are $1 to $1.75 per serving). There’s also no bulk buy option. However, as with most protein powders, you can sign up for a subscription for a slight discount.
Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Review.
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.16
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110-140
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate, Cinnamon French Toast, Cookies and Cream, Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie
- Third-Party Testing: None
For weight loss, we recommend Authentic ISO from Jacked Factory as one of the best whey protein powders. Whey protein is used in tons of protein powders on the market today — and for good reason. It’s rich in leucine, a branched-chain amino acid that boosts muscle protein synthesis. Building more lean muscle can help you burn additional calories throughout the day, promoting weight loss.
We like how this impressive protein supplement uses grass-fed whey protein isolate as its protein source, as this whey isolate type of protein is more filtered and refined than whey protein concentrate, and can aid in thermogenesis. (2) Because whey protein isolate contains less fat and carbs than whey protein concentrate, it’s typically lower in calories.
Our expert was pretty satisfied with the formula, which offers 25 grams of protein and no fat. However, she notes the higher sodium content. “Some flavors provide up to 300 milligrams of sodium, which is a significant portion of your recommended daily intake,” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D says, giving the formula a 4.25 out of 5. “If you’re watching your sodium intake for any reason, you might not be keen on this protein powder.”
Additionally, this protein powder earns a 4 out of 5 for cost, thanks to its budget-friendly price. This protein has a pretty standard price at $1.20 per serving, as most protein powders range from $1.00 to $1.75 per serving. Cost varies slightly by flavor, so you may need to adjust your flavor preferences if you want the best deal.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, gives Authentic ISO some high flavor praise during trials. “I really enjoyed the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, which had a good consistency when mixed with milk. I’d also recommend adding some ice cubes to your concoction for a sweet treat throughout the day.” Be mindful, though, that some flavors may be too sweet for certain taste buds, according to some customers.
Those who find it too sweet may be picking up on the included artificial sweetener, sucralose. Studies indicate that artificial sweeteners, including sucralose, can cause gastrointestinal distress in some athletes. (3)
Read our full Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Review.
Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein
A grass-fed whey isolate includes added ingredients for digestion like seven digestive enzymes and a probiotic (lactobacillus acidophilus). It's also gluten-free, sugar-free, and soy-free.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.33
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Calories Per Serving: 110-120
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Mexican Chocolate
- Third-Party Testing: None
Supplementing with whey protein when working to lose weight can help increase diet-induced thermogenesis and satiety throughout your day. (2) Choosing a protein powder that tastes great can make it easier for you to stick with and actually experience those benefits. We consider Onnit Whey Protein one of the best-tasting protein powders that you’ll actually enjoy drinking.
Onnit Whey Protein is available in two flavors: Vanilla or Mexican Chocolate. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rates Onnit Whey Protein’s taste and flavor profile at 5 out of 5. “I was really surprised by the unique chocolate notes across the Mexican Chocolate variety,” they note. “I really enjoy this protein when combining it with whole milk or oat milk.” While we wish there were more than two flavor options available, we won’t be getting tired of these any time soon.
Depending on your preferred flavor, each scoop provides only 110 to 120 calories. These low-calorie shakes are unlikely to threaten your calorie deficit, making them great for weight loss. “Onnit Whey Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formula,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D. “The macro ratio is on point for its goals, and the enzyme blend is intriguing.”
We love that the protein powder is lean with only 2 to 2.5 grams of fat and 3 to 4 grams of carbs per serving. However, Bourgeois dings the formulation score slightly for its lower protein content. She recommends a weight-loss protein to have 90% protein content, while Onnit offers between 75% and 80%.
Despite the less protein-dominant formulation, we still hold this protein in high regard for flavor and solubility. Our tester, who rates solubility a 5 out of 5, noted no clumps or residue when mixing this powder with water.
The price is another plus, coming in at just $1.33 per serving on Amazon. We rate it a 4 out of 5 for affordability, making it a budget-friendly option for a whey protein supplement. We think it’s a steal for a high-quality, great-tasting product.
Read our full Onnit Whey Protein Review.
Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein
Free of artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners, Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein is an incredibly straightforward supplement without fillers. It's also remarkably low in fat and carbohydrates.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.00
- Protein Source: Instantized micellar casein protein
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
The best casein protein powder can keep you feeling fuller for longer thanks to its slower-digesting makeup, which could help with weight loss. Many athletes looking to build muscle and lose fat take casein before bed after an evening workout because its slow release of amino acids during sleep supports recovery. (4) We recommend Transparent Labs Casein Protein to help reduce cravings, build muscle, and promote repair between training sessions. (5)
With 4 grams of carbohydrates, this protein has a bit more than some others we’ve tested, but 1 gram comes from fiber, leaving just 3 net carbs. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol — both important factors for those looking to lose weight. (6)
Like other Transparent Labs products, this casein powder is free of artificial preservatives, colorings, and flavors for a clean makeup when compared to other formulations on the market. (7) It’s sweetened with stevia, a natural, non-caloric sweetener. (8) “While stevia appears to be safer than many other artificial sweeteners, it may disrupt the gut microbiome and may cause gastrointestinal upset for some people,” explains Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM.
“Transparent Labs Casein Protein scores a 4.75 out of 5 for its formulation,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D. “I’m a fan of the macro breakdown that Transparent Labs offers with their Casein Protein powder. You get a whopping 25 grams of protein without an overwhelming amount of carbs or fat. It helps you meet your protein needs without overdoing it in other areas.”
While there are only Vanilla and Chocolate flavors to choose from, we still rate this Transparent Labs Casein at 5 out of 5 when it comes to taste. Additionally, our tester, a certified nutrition coach, gives this powder a 4.5 out of 5 for solubility. “I had no issues in breaking up clumps during blends,” they note. “This was quite the welcome treat, as other caseins I’ve had tend to clump up more often than not.”
Like all protein powders, this one has a couple of downsides too. For one, there’s only one 30-serving container to choose from, meaning there’s no opportunity to buy in bulk. This is also a detriment, as there’s no chance to potentially shrink the $2.00 cost per serving.
Read our full Transparent Labs Casein Protein Review.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Gainful Vegan Protein
Gainful Plant-Based Protein Powder offers up to 24 grams of organic brown rice and pea protein, which delivers a complete amino acid profile. Right now, take 50% off your first order with the code: BF50.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $3.21
- Protein Source: Organic brown rice and pea protein
- Protein Per Serving: Up to 24g
- Calories Per Serving: Around 120
- Available Flavors: Flavor boost packs available in Sea Salt Caramel, Rich Chocolate, Cinnamon Toast, Cookies and Cream, Cafe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry Cream, and Madagascar Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: None
Studies show that plant-derived protein sources are often less calorie-dense than their animal-based counterparts, which could help you stick to a caloric deficit. (9) Although potentially lower in calories, Gainful Plant-Based Protein has a robust makeup that leaves you satiated, making it one of the best vegan protein powders for weight loss.
Gainful packs a powerful 20 to 24 grams of vegan protein from organic brown rice and pea protein, keeping its macronutrients on par with other animal-based powders we’ve tested over the years. Combining pea protein with brown rice protein creates a complete amino acid profile, which is great for maintaining and building lean muscle — key for boosting metabolism. (10)
“I really like that Gainful offers a personalized protein powder formula, and I like that it’s unsweetened and free from artificial ingredients,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who rates the formula 4.5 out of 5.
Our personal testers are satisfied with the flavor, too. “I am not always a fan of super sweet powders, but I really enjoyed this one. For this flavor, I definitely think you should use water instead of milk. I think closer to 8 ounces would be the ideal base to create the best taste,” they say.
Unfortunately, the powder clumps with both water and milk, earning the solubility category a 3 out of 5. “I also found that clumps were more prominent when mixed with a thicker liquid like milk,” notes our tester. “I’d recommend a countertop blender over a shaker bottle for this protein powder.”
Since this is a personalized protein powder design to help you meet your personal goals, we aren’t surprised by the higher price tag. The price per serving starts at $3.21, which understandably won’t fit into everyone’s budget. However, if you can swing the expensive cost, we think Gainful Vegan Protein could make a great addition to your weight loss supplement stack. (9)
Read our full Gainful Protein Powder Review.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+
An all natural, non-GMO, fat-free whey that's cheaper than many competitors, Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder is made from 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from sustainable dairy farms in Ireland. It's also higher in calcium compared to other powders on the market.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $2.00
- Protein Source: 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Grams Per Serving: 21-23g
- Calories Per Serving: 100-130
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies and Cream, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored, Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
To be clear, the best protein supplements for weight loss aren’t specific to any gender. But we like Legion Whey+ here because studies show that a protein-rich in BCAAs may support fat oxidation in those targeting weight loss. (11) Legion’s Whey+ is packed with 5.6 grams of BCAAs, which could promote muscle mass while burning fat.
We’ve previously declared this product one of the best protein powders for women thanks to its natural makeup containing no hormones, artificial ingredients, or added sugars. (7) Legion also pays close attention to its protein source for Whey+, using whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows raised on small dairy farms in Ireland.
As far as macronutrients are concerned, Chelsae Rae Bourgeois, a registered dietitian, gives her approval. “Legion Whey+ scores a 4.75 out of 5 for its formula. It’s not the most protein-dense protein powder, but its macro ratios and ingredient sources are impressive,” she says.
Be mindful, though, that Whey+ does not include any extra digestive enzymes, which could lead to some side effects for athletes susceptible to stomach discomfort and bloat with other protein powders. (12) Whey protein specifically contains lactose, which could lead to gas and bloating in those who are lactose intolerant. According to research, cis women may be more prone to these side effects than their cis male counterparts. (13) (Research on trans and nonbinary people in this context is lacking; we encourage trans folks to reach out to trans-affirming nutritionists or dietitians when possible.) “Of note, this product is a whey protein isolate, which means the lactose is ultra-filtered, making it more tolerable than whey protein for some people. However, gastrointestinal upset is still possible, especially without the added digestive enzymes,” explains Dr. Jennie Stanford, M.D., FAAFP, DipABOM.
We rate the taste of this protein powder a 4.5 out of 5. Our tester says the Cinnamon Cereal variety is less rich than they’d prefer, but they like it overall. Plus, you have 16 flavors to choose from, which should help prevent flavor fatigue.
Regarding solubility, Legion Whey+ scores a 3 out of 5. “There were still some noticeable particles floating throughout the container, so I’d suggest using a blender when you can,” our tester advises.
Finally, Legion offers Whey+ in different container sizes, ideal for athletes who prefer to buy their supplements in bulk. We recommend taking advantage of the larger tubs when possible to save on cost. The 2-pound tub costs $2.00 per serving, which is pretty expensive. However, the 5-pound container costs $1.54 — a price more in line with other proteins on the market.
Read our full Legion Whey+ Review.
Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
This clean, transparent protein powder relies on organic, non-GMO yellow peas for its 20-gram protein dosage. Additionally, the subscription-based model helps ensure you’re always stocked up to help you meet your nutritional goals day in and day out.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.67
- Protein Source: Organic pea protein
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Calories Per Serving: 115
- Available Flavor: Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
One of the best organic protein powders is also among our best weight loss protein powders. Ritual’s Essential Daily Shake 18+ offers 20 grams of organic pea protein per serving, as well as a host of vitamins and minerals. (14) It’s made with natural and traceable ingredients so you don’t have to question what you’re putting into your body.
Pea protein is a complete protein, but is low in methionine, an essential amino acid. (15) “I like the formula’s macro ratio, but I especially like that Ritual added L-methionine,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD, rating the formula a 4.25 out of 5. “Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning our bodies need it but can’t produce it, so it’s super convenient to get it in your protein powder.“
Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-certified personal trainer, rates this protein shake a 4 out of 5 for taste. “Even just with water, I found this powder had a nice flavor to it. It’s not super plant-y or hemp-y like other plant-based proteins I’ve tried over the years,” she says.
Additionally, Meier gives Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ a perfect 5 out of 5 for solubility, saying this shake had “shockingly” excellent consistency with a smooth texture. Plant-based protein can be a bit grainy, so we’ve been pleasantly surprised by this one.
We also appreciate Ritual’s commitment to transparency. Every ingredient — such as the organic, non-GMO pea protein used in the formulation — can be traced back to its source with detailed information. Plus, this powder is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s free of any banned substances and you can trust what’s on the label. (16)
Considering this shake is made with organic, traceable ingredients and undergoes third-party testing, its price is undoubtedly on the high side. We rate this vegan-friendly Ritual protein shake a 2 out of 5 for cost due to its $2.67 price per serving.
Finally, Ritual operates under a subscription-based model, meaning your initial purchase automatically signs you up for repeat orders. This can be great if you’re fully committed to this protein powder for the long haul, but not so great if you just want to try it out or like to alternate products from time to time.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
This whey isolate from Momentous offers 20 grams of protein with only 100 calories per serving. In addition to the protein, there's also 90mg of calcium and 115mg of potassium, as well as an enzyme blend to help aid digestion.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.70
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 22.27-23.40g
- Calories Per Serving: 90-100
- Available Flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
Protein powders aren’t generally formulated for a specific gender, but some may be more beneficial for one than others. (17) For men wanting to add a protein powder to their weight loss plan, we recommend Momentous Whey Protein Isolate. It caught our attention with its hearty 22.27 to 23.40 grams of protein and addition of Prohydrolase to boost your muscle-gaining potential. (18)
“I love that Momentous collaborates with dietitians when formulating their products, and I love love love that they link up-to-date research that backs their product’s ingredients,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D., giving the formulation a 4.25 out of 5. “The use of Prohydrolase makes this product stand out. The research shows that Prohydrolase can increase amino acid concentrations in the post-workout setting. Hello, muscle gain!”
Whey Protein Isolate is especially high in potassium, a mineral that promotes proper muscle function during exercise. Each scoop can deliver between 110 and 260 milligrams, which is appealing to athletes looking to reach the recommended 3,400 milligrams per day. (19) High potassium intake is associated with lower odds of low muscle mass, among other benefits. (20)
Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-certified personal trainer, praises this Momentous protein powder for its rich flavor, giving the protein shake a 4 out of 5 for taste. “I tried the chocolate variety and found it to be very similar to rich cocoa, even when mixed with ice-cold water,” she says.
Momentous Whey Protein Isolate also rates highly in solubility, earning a 4.5 out of 5. We notice that the unflavored option in particular leaves behind some clumps. Also, some customer reviews note stomach discomfort after consuming this powder. “The Chocolate flavor is great, but the choice of sweetener is awful. Lots of bloat and gas problems,” says one customer who disliked the added stevia. (21)
While we do view this high-quality protein as a worthwhile pick for men (or athletes of any gender) embarking on a weight loss program, we understand that it’s not for every budget. At $2.70 per serving, this is way beyond the average $1 to $1.75 price of protein. For this reason, we rate this Momentous pick at 1 out of 5 for cost.
Read our full Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate Review.
Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate
Nutricost's Whey Protein Concentrate comes in five different flavors and packs 25 grams of protein per serving. This product is also available in two- and five-pound containers, making it easier to buy in bulk.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $0.87
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey concentrate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 130-150
- Available Flavors: Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
Protein powder for weight loss doesn’t need to cost a fortune to be effective. At less than 90 cents per serving, Nutricost’s Whey Protein Concentrate is well below the $1 to $2 average you tend to see for whey protein powders. It’s available in 2- or 5-pound containers, making it easier to buy in bulk and at a discounted price. Needless to say, we score its overall value a 5 out of 5.
There’s plenty to love about this product beyond its low price tag. For starters, it’s both non-GMO and gluten-free. It’s also been third-party tested for banned substances, though our tester — Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-certified personal trainer — wishes the testing had been performed by a major lab. (23)
According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, this formula earns a 3.5 out of 5 due to the sucralose used. Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort like gas and bloating for some individuals. (23) Meier doesn’t experience any side effects or GI distress, but you’ll want to consider your own sensitivities before scooping up a tub. “Protein supplements have a tendency to upset my partner’s stomach, but we had no issues with this one,” she adds.
Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate scores a 4 out of 5 for taste. “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day,” she says. “I also like that it had a bit of texture and wasn’t thin like a lot of other powders.” She even notes that the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor goes down smooth with no aftertaste. However, those who like to alternate between different flavors may not like that Nutricost offers just five standard flavors.
Meier also finds this powder easy to blend in milk or water. There are no clumps or leftover residue at the bottom of the cup after mixing. As such, she scores it a 5 out of 5 in terms of solubility. If you’re looking for a great tasting protein powder with good mixability, this one may be the right fit.
[Related: Best Supplements for Weight Loss]
How We Tested the Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, registered dietitians, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we tested 104 different protein powders from multiple brands and evaluated each of them through a weight loss lens using our supplement testing methodology. Here are the categories we paid the closest attention to.
- Formulation: We looked for products made with high-quality, complete protein sources containing all nine essential amino acids. (24) We gave high marks to products without artificial sweeteners and unnecessary additives. We intentionally looked for products with organic, vegan, and gluten-free ingredients to fit a variety of dietary needs and preferences.
- Dosages: We favored products that deliver at least 20 grams of protein in each serving, as this is enough to stimulate muscle protein synthesis for most individuals. (25)
- Cost Per Serving: We took into account how expensive each product was, with most landing between $1 to $2 per serving. We included products with a range of price points to fit varying budgets.
- Taste and Flavor: We shared our subjective opinions on the taste of several products to help you make an informed decision. We also put a premium on having a wide variety of flavors available for our picks.
- Solubility: We mixed each protein in water and milk products, testing mixability with shaker cups and blender bottles. We preferred products with minimal to no clumps or residue after mixing.
- Calorie Distribution: Your powder’s calorie count is important, as this can make it easier to achieve and maintain a caloric deficit. (26) As such, we looked for protein powders that weren’t too energy dense — roughly 140 calories or less.
- Fitness Goals: We opted for formulas with as few grams of fat and carbs as possible to help keep calorie counts relatively low.
Benefits of Protein Powders for Weight Loss
Protein powders can be an effective tool for weight loss when combined with exercise, a healthy diet, and a solid sleep routine. They may help boost metabolism, increase satiety, and build lean mass, all of which could help you shed unwanted body fat.
- Increased Satiety: Protein can be great for athletes on a weight loss journey thanks to its satiating qualities. (27) Protein takes longer than carbs to digest, which can contribute to helping you feel fuller for longer. This can do wonders for your weight loss journey, as there’s less room for cravings or overeating.
- Higher Thermic Effect of Food: Protein has a higher thermic effect of food (TEF) than carbs and fat. This means your body uses more energy (calories) to digest them. (2)
- Supports Muscle Growth: Protein powder is rich in amino acids that are essential for muscle growth. The more lean muscle you build or maintain during weight loss, the more calories you can burn, as muscle burns more calories than fat. (8)
- Convenience: When you’re short on time, it’s easy to whip up a quick protein shake with just water and a shaker cup. This convenience could keep you from reaching for other more calorie-dense options.
How Much Do Protein Powders for Weight Loss Cost?
There are numerous factors that contribute to the cost of a protein powder. Organic ingredients, third-party testing, traceable ingredients, and grass-fed protein tend to increase the cost of a product. Typically, protein powders range between $1.00 and $1.75 per serving. Our list includes several within that range plus a few outliers.
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | $2.00 Per Serving |
| Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $1.16 Per Serving |
| Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Onnit Whey Protein | 1.33 Per Serving |
| Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Transparent Labs Casein Protein | $2.00 Per Serving |
| Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Gainful Plant-Based Protein | Starts at $3.21 Per Serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women | Legion Whey+ | $2.00 Per Serving |
| Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ | $2.67 Per Serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men | Momentous Whey Protein Isolate | $2.70 Per Serving |
| Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate | $0.78 – $1.17 Per Serving |
What to Consider Before Buying Protein Powders for Weight Loss
When shopping for a protein powder for weight loss, there are a few factors to consider before completely revamping your supplement routine.
Here’s what we recommend looking for to find the protein powder best suited for you.
Protein Content
Look for a protein powder with at least 20 grams per serving, as this is the amount needed to stimulate muscle protein synthesis. However, slightly higher protein content is usually desirable for weight loss thanks to the potential to increase satiety. (27)(2) In general, protein powder with 24 to 28 grams of protein per dosage can be a good sweet spot to consider.
Calories Per Serving
Most of your calories should come from nutrient-rich whole foods. One of the main ways to facilitate healthy weight loss is by achieving and maintaining a slight caloric deficit. (26 We recommend opting for a protein powder delivering between 100 and 140 calories per serving. Additionally, we’ve found that protein powders with these caloric counts are sufficient to sustain satiety between whole meals. (27)
Available Flavors
Choosing a protein powder with several flavor options may keep you from experiencing flavor fatigue. It’s important to choose a protein powder that tastes great so that you’re more likely to stick with it day in and day out.
Price
Prioritize protein powders that fit comfortably within your desired budget. When thinking of your powder’s overall cost, it’s best to view the number in price per serving. Buying in bulk or signing up for a subscription can help you save money.
Third-Party Testing
We recommend looking for a protein powder that’s third-party tested for safety and quality, since supplements like this aren’t regulated by the FDA. Third-party testing ensures label accuracy and verifies the product doesn’t contain heavy metals or banned substances. (22)
Best Protein for Weight Loss FAQs
What is the best protein powder for weight loss on the market?
We think Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a top pick thanks to its clean formulation, free of any artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and colorings. (7) Additionally, we appreciate the abundance of flavors to choose from, along with the powder’s exceptional solubility when mixed with your liquid of choice.
How much do protein powders for weight loss cost?
Prices for protein powders can vary from brand to brand, as well as how many servings you get in a singular container. For this reason, we recommend looking at the price per serving, rather than the overall cost of the protein powder itself. On average, you can expect to find a high-quality protein powder for weight loss between $1 and $1.75 per dose. Naturally, there are cheaper and more expensive options out there, but this is the range we’ve found most common across the category.
If I’m intaking calories from protein powder, isn’t that going to make me gain weight instead of lose it?
In short, no. The main point of a successful weight loss regimen is maintaining a calorie deficit throughout the day, meaning you’re expending more energy than you’re consuming. (26) Protein powders can help you achieve this metric more so than some other foods, as their protein-rich makeup can help you increase satiety in-between meals while also potentially improving thermogenesis, i.e. facilitating fat loss instead of muscle mass loss. (28)
References
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