10 Best Whey Protein Powders
What Is Whey Protein?
When it comes to improving workout performance, recovery, and overall muscularity, your body requires an adequate amount of quality protein. When it comes to the various types of protein powders on the market right now, whey protein is proving to be the best protein supplement. Whey protein is a type of protein that is derived from milk. It is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. These amino acids are necessary for building and repairing muscle tissue.
Whey protein is commonly used as a supplement to help with muscle building and recovery, particularly by athletes and bodybuilders. When you exercise, your muscles are subjected to a lot of stress and can become damaged. Consuming protein after a workout can help to repair and rebuild these damaged muscles, leading to increased strength and size.
Whey protein is a particularly good source of protein for muscle building because it is easily absorbed by the body and has a high biological value, which means that it is efficiently used by the body for muscle building. It is also a rich source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are important for muscle growth and recovery.
In addition to its muscle-building benefits, whey protein may also have other health benefits, such as improving blood sugar control, reducing blood pressure, and boosting the immune system.
Below are our picks for the 10 Best Whey Protein Powders available on the market today!
10 Best Whey Protein Powders
Transparent Labs
100% Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
Transparent Labs uses 100 percent pure whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows in New Zealand, which is sourced responsibly. It's one of the most environmentally friendly products on the market, as well as the best organic protein powder available.
It's one of the healthiest protein powders on the market, providing all the protein your body requires to perform and recover efficiently with none of the unnecessary junk found in many supplements.
The first product in our Protein Series is our 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate, which is sourced from grass-fed American cows! It has one of the highest protein-to-weight ratios in the industry, at 88 percent (28 grams of protein per 32 gram scoop).
Transparent Labs 100 percent Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is one of the cleanest proteins on the market, made from naturally fed, hormone-free cow whey and free of artificial sweeteners, food dyes, gluten, and preservatives. It's ideal for post-workout recovery and meeting daily protein requirements.
Xwerks
GROW
Xwerks Grow is a 100% New Zealand grass-fed whey protein isolate. Our protein is sourced from naturally raised grass-fed cows that naturally graze on the countryside of New Zealand, one of the strictest countries in the world when it comes to dairy quality. Meaning no hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides that can be passed on to you.
Our unique small batch protein formula contains only whey protein isolate and is not blended with lesser quality whey. Whey isolate means our whey is “isolated” through microfiltration to almost totally pure protein at 25g of protein and over 6g of BCAA’s per serving. This also means almost no lactose, carbs and fats (Peanut Butter contains 23g of Protein, 2g fat and 2g carbs). Grow's low carb content makes it ideal for those following the keto diet.
ONNIT Supplements
Whey Isolate Protein
Onnit’s Whey Protein is sourced from the milk of grass-fed, humanely treated New Zealand dairy cows, and contains no GMOs, lactose, gluten or sugar. The result is a supplement that’s easier to digest as part of a post-workout shake.
Since it’s a Whey Protein Isolate (rather than concentrate), Onnit’s formula also has the fat and carbs from its milk filtered out, delivering a purer form of whey, with straight protein to help build muscle. The leucine in the whey protein isolate reaches your muscles more efficiently, as well, resulting in faster recovery between workout sessions.
Onnit Grass Fed Whey Protein contains 20 grams of protein per serving, and is available here in two great flavors: Mexican Chocolate and Vanilla.
HUGE SUPPLEMENTS
HUGE WHEY
Huge Whey is a high-quality protein powder made from whey that is made for athletes. Each serving packs a massive 23 grams of protein, including 5 grams of Branched-chain amino acids. On top of the high protein content, it also tastes delicious!
There are many different flavors, such as Cookies and Cream, Vanilla Milkshake, Peanut Butter Chocolate, and many more. Take Huge Whey protein at any time of the day to make sure you're able to hit your daily protein macros.
HIGH-QUALITY WHEY PROTEIN POWDER
BEST TASTING
PROMOTES MUSCLE GROWTH
25G PROTEIN PER SERVING
HIT YOUR PROTEIN MACROS
BulkSupplements.com
Whey Protein Isolate 90%
Protein is necessary for the development of strong, lean muscles. Whey protein isolate contains all of the essential amino acids required for the growth and maintenance of lean muscle mass. It also contains branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine), which are essential for metabolic health. This Whey Isolate Protein Powder, a pure protein powder, can assist you in reaching your fitness objectives.
Increases Muscle Mass: Whey Protein Isolate is a protein supplement that is ideal for athletes, bodybuilders, and those looking to gain muscle mass. This Whey Protein Isolate Unflavored Powder, a Whey Protein Powder, is a fast-digesting protein that aids in the repair and growth of muscle tissue.
Supports Muscle Recovery & Endurance: Whey Protein Isolate, ISO Protein Powder, is among the fastest absorbing proteins on the market, making it the ideal choice for post-workout recovery. This Whey Protein Powder is a protein powder that doesn't have any artificial sweeteners. It helps build muscle and speed up growth, so you can reach your fitness goals faster.
Pure and Clean:Whey Protein Isolate, also known as protein powder isolate, is the purest form of Whey Protein. Because it mixes easily into liquids without clumping or lumping, unflavored whey protein powder is ideal for use in shakes, smoothies, baking, and cooking. This unflavored Whey Protein Powder can be used as a meal replacement or in between meals to help you maintain your caloric intake while still getting the nutrients you need from food.
Naked Nutrition
Whey 100% Grass Fed
ONLY ONE INGREDIENT: Grass Fed Pure Whey Protein with no additives. Naked Whey contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors, is GMO-free, contains no rBGH or rBST, is soy-free, and is gluten-free.
WHEY IS COMPLETELY NATURAL: Our Grass Fed Whey is sourced from small dairy farms in California and is non-denatured, containing essential amino acids, clean protein, and glutathione.
MAXIMUM NUTRITION: 25g of Protein, 2g of Sugar, 3g of Carbs, 120 Calories, and 5.9g of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) per serving.
Naked Whey is cold processed, unlike most whey protein powders, to ensure zero contamination from chemical detergents (no acid or bleach), synthetic additives, or heavy metals, preserving important naturally occurring growth factors.
THE IDEAL WORKOUT PARTNER: Make pre and post-workout whey shakes, smoothies, and recipes to boost your muscle gains and recovery.
Optimum Nutrition
Gold Standard 100% Whey
Optimum Nutrition's Gold Standard 100 percent Whey protein powder is a simple yet highly effective protein powder. This product is the undisputed Gold Standard of the fitness supplement industry, having won a slew of prestigious awards over the years.
Gold standard 100 percent whey blend – 24 grams blended protein with whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides to support lean muscle mass – it's not called the Gold Standard of quality for nothing.
Over 5 grams of BCAAS help build lean and strong muscles with BCAAs
3-4 grams carbs, 1-3 grams sugar, and 1-1.5 grams fat, gluten-free, no sucralose in double rich chocolate flavor
Instantized – Improves mixability to prevent lumps and clumps
Banned substance tested – Highest quality control measures so you feel comfortable and safe consuming the product
4 sizes to choose from – 1, 2, 5, and 10-pound options available
Dymatize
ISO 100 Whey
ISO100 is simply muscle-building fuel. Each serving contains 25 grams of protein and 5.5g of BCAAs including 2.7g of L-Leucine. ISO100 is known worldwide for its quality, taste, and purity, It is produced to our highest quality standards. ISO100 is formulated using a cross-flow microfiltration, multi-step purification process that preserves important muscle-building protein fractions while removing excess carbohydrates, fat, lactose, and cholesterol. ISO100 is made with pre-hydrolyzed protein sources to ensure fast digestion and absorption.
25 grams of protein, 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), & 2.7 grams of Leucine per serving
Less than 1 gram of fat & sugar per serving
Scientifically proven, fast-digesting, hydrolyzed, 100% whey protein isolate. If your goal is gains in muscle size and strength, ISO100 is your perfect partner
Gluten free with less than 0.5g of Lactose
Legion
Whey+
100% NATURAL WHEY PROTEIN POWDER ISOLATE. Whey+ is a naturally sweetened and flavored whey protein isolate that contains 22 grams of protein per serving and contains very little carbohydrate or fat.
ORIGINATES FROM THE WORLD-FAMOUS IRISH DAIRY FARMS. Whey+ is a grassfed whey protein made with exceptionally high-quality milk from small, sustainable dairy farms in Ireland, which produce some of the world's healthiest, cleanest milk.
DECADENT & DELICIOUS TO THE MAX. Seriously. Whey+ is unlike any isolate whey protein powder you've ever tried. Prepare to enjoy delectable, high-protein, low-calorie whey protein drinks that will help you achieve your fitness goals faster.
RESULTS ARE GUARANTEED OR YOUR MONEY BACK. If you are not completely satisfied with this low carb protein powder for women and men, simply notify us and we will issue you a prompt and courteous refund right away. There are no complicated forms to fill out, and no returns are required.
THE PERSON BEHIND THE BRAND. Tired of the supplement industry's exaggeration and lies? Mike Mathews, international bestselling fitness author with over a million books sold, was in the same boat, which is why he founded Legion Athletics.
Ascent
Native Fuel Whey
Ascent was created with one goal in mind: to improve athletic performance naturally. We, like you, understand that shortcuts do not exist. There are no shortcuts on your path; only hard work and proper nutrition.
Ascent is dedicated to using the highest quality real food ingredients and is intended to improve muscle health and performance. The rest is up to you, and we believe your best days are yet to come.
There are no artificial ingredients or flavors in Ascent Whey Protein. It is naturally sweetened and contains only 1g of naturally occurring sugar. Ascent is also Gluten Free and Informed Sport Certified, which means it has been tested and is free of any banned substances.
Ascent Whey Protein contains 25g of whey protein per serving, which is equivalent to the protein content of three full cups of whole milk, three eight-ounce servings of yogurt, four large eggs, one small chicken breast, or 34 cup of almonds.
Ascent Whey Protein, made from native whey, is the ideal post-workout shake for muscle repair and recovery. Ascent also includes 5.7 g of naturally occurring BCAAs, 2.7 g of Leucine, and 12 g of Essential Amino Acids.
What Are the Benefits of Whey Protein Powders?
1. Whey is a fantastic source of high-quality protein.
Whey protein is the protein fraction of whey, a liquid that separates from milk during the cheesemaking process. It's a complete, high-quality protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. Furthermore, when compared to other types of proteins, it is very digestible and quickly absorbed from the gut. Because of these characteristics, it is one of the best dietary sources of protein available.
Whey protein powder is classified into three types: concentrate (WPC), isolate (WPI), and hydrolysate (WPH). The most common and least expensive type is concentrate.
Whey protein is a popular dietary supplement among bodybuilders, athletes, and others who want to add more protein to their diet.
2. Whey Protein Aids Muscle Growth
Muscle mass naturally declines as we get older. This usually results in weight gain and increases the risk of many chronic diseases. However, with a combination of strength training and a healthy diet, this negative change in body composition can be slowed, prevented, or reversed.
A combination of strength training and the consumption of high-protein foods or protein supplements is an effective preventive strategy.
High-quality protein sources, such as whey, which is high in a branched-chain amino acid called leucine, are especially effective. Leucine is the amino acid that promotes the most growth. As a result, whey protein is effective for preventing age-related muscle loss, as well as improving strength and appearance. Whey protein is superior to other types of protein for muscle growth, such as casein or soy.
3. Whey Protein Can Aid in Weight Loss
Some foods are more satiating than others (satiety is the term used to describe feeling full after eating a meal), an effect that is mediated in part by their macronutrient composition. Protein is one of the most filling macronutrients.
However, not all proteins have the same satiety effects. When compared to other types of proteins, such as soy and casein, whey protein appears to be more satiating.
This characteristic makes whey protein very useful for people who want to consume fewer calories and lose weight. Furthermore, having fewer food cravings between meals can aid in the establishment of a regular and moderated diet.
4. Whey Protein Has the Potential to Lower Blood Pressure
Several studies have found that eating dairy products can help lower blood pressure. This effect has been attributed by researchers to a class of bioactive peptides found in dairy known as angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE-inhibitors).
Lactokinins are ACE inhibitors found in whey. Lactokinins have been shown in animal studies to effectively lower blood pressure.
In a 2010 study, overweight people who were given whey protein supplements for 12 weeks had lower systolic blood pressure.
Another study on young men and women found that after six weeks of consuming whey protein, the subjects' blood pressure had decreased.
5. Whey Protein May Aid in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition marked by impaired insulin function and high blood sugar levels. Insulin is a necessary hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels in cells and keeps them within a healthy range.
Whey protein has been shown in studies to effectively moderate blood sugar, improving both insulin levels and its effectiveness in functioning. Furthermore, whey protein is a better choice than other common protein sources, such as fish or egg whites.
Whey protein has similar beneficial properties to some diabetic medications, such as sulfonylurea. This suggests that whey protein could be used as a supplement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
6. Whey Protein May Aid in the Reduction of Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's natural defense against injury. Although inflammation can be beneficial in the short term, it has the potential to become chronic in certain situations.
Chronic inflammation can be harmful, especially because it is a risk factor for a variety of health problems. It could be the result of poor lifestyle choices or underlying health issues.
According to a 2015 study, high levels of whey protein can significantly lower C-reactive protein, a key marker of inflammation in the body.
7. Whey Protein May Boost Antioxidant Defenses in the Body
Antioxidants are chemical substances that protect the body from oxidation. It reduces oxidative stress and lowers the risk of developing a variety of chronic diseases.
Glutathione is an important antioxidant in the human body. Unlike other antioxidants that can be obtained through diet, glutathione can only be produced by the body. This substance's production is heavily reliant on the availability of essential amino acids such as cysteine, which is frequently in short supply.
As a result, foods high in cysteine, such as whey protein, may boost antioxidant levels. According to one study, whey proteins may help reduce oxidative stress while increasing glutathione levels in the body.
How Did We Pick the Best Whey Protein?
It may appear simple, but determining the key differences between different protein powders is a difficult task. It is critical to emphasize that some of the areas discussed below are not necessarily good or bad. Some athletes prefer foods without artificial sweeteners, and others try to limit their intake of soy. However, there is little evidence that either has negative effects; we simply mention them in case they are a problem for you. Here are the ingredients and factors that we considered when creating this guide.
Protein Powder Varieties
Whey proteins are typically made up of one or more of three types of protein: concentrate, isolate, and/or hydrolysate. They each have their own set of advantages and disadvantages: Whey concentrate is less expensive and extracted with an enzyme or acid; whey isolate is lower in fat and carbohydrates; and hydrolyzed whey digests faster and may be safer for those with allergies. All of this has been considered, and we've included all types of whey on this list — whatever your preference, there's an option for you here.
Protein in terms of calories
A gram of protein contains four calories, and many people measure a supplement's protein density by how many calories it contains per gram. If a shake contains 25 grams of protein, it contains 100 calories (assuming no added carbs or fat). To keep calories low, choose a protein powder with fewer grams of carbs and fat. Pay close attention to this number.
Sweeteners Made from Artificial Ingredients
We're not saying artificial sweeteners are bad for you, but we can't deny that many athletes prefer to avoid them. To that end, we'll mention the presence of aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and any other sweetener used in the product, such as stevia or sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive problems in a small percentage of the population.
Protein Powder Ingredients
Some people avoid soy at all costs, but it is a popular ingredient in protein supplements to improve mixability. Perhaps you are sensitive to thickeners and stabilizers such as xanthan gum or carrageenan, which can cause digestive distress. Again, this is a personal preference, but we consider these ingredients.
Taste of Protein Powder
A protein powder can taste chalky, smooth, sweet, earthy, or bitter in a variety of ways. The real taste test for protein powder is how it tastes with water — it's not as difficult to make something that tastes good with milk.
Frequently Asked Questions about Whey Protein
What is whey protein?
Whey protein is a type of protein that is derived from whey, which is a byproduct of cheese production. It is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids, and is often used as a dietary supplement to help build muscle mass, improve athletic performance, and support recovery from exercise.
What are the benefits of taking whey protein?
Some potential benefits of taking whey protein include increasing muscle mass, improving athletic performance, and aiding in weight loss. Whey protein may also have some health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and improving immune function.
How much whey protein should I take per day?
The recommended daily intake of protein varies depending on a person's age, sex, and physical activity level. The general guideline is to consume 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight, or 0.8 grams per kilogram. For example, a person who weighs 150 pounds (68 kg) should aim to consume 54 grams of protein per day.
Can I take too much whey protein?
It is generally safe to consume high amounts of whey protein, but it is possible to overdo it. Consuming too much protein can put strain on the kidneys and cause them to work harder to filter out the excess nutrients. It can also lead to digestive issues, such as bloating and diarrhea. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional about the right amount of protein for your individual needs.
Is whey protein suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Whey protein is derived from milk, so it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, there are plant-based protein powders available, such as pea protein and rice protein, that can be used as an alternative to whey protein.
Can I take whey protein if I have lactose intolerance?
Most whey protein supplements are made from whey protein concentrate, which contains small amounts of lactose. However, there are also whey protein isolates available, which have had most of the lactose removed and are generally well-tolerated by people with lactose intolerance. If you are lactose intolerant and want to try whey protein, it is recommended to start with a small serving size and gradually increase it to see how your body tolerates it.
Can children take whey protein?
Whey protein can be safe for children to consume, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before giving it to a child. Children have different protein needs than adults, and it is important to ensure that they are getting the right amount of protein for their age and activity level.
Can pregnant or nursing women take whey protein?
Pregnant and nursing women may benefit from adding protein to their diet, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements. Pregnancy and lactation increase a woman's protein needs, but it is important to ensure that the protein is coming from a variety of sources and not just supplements.
What are the side effects of whey protein?
Some people may experience digestive issues when they first start taking whey protein, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea. These side effects are usually temporary and can be reduced by starting with a smaller serving size and gradually increasing it. Some people may also be allergic to whey protein or have an intolerance to lactose, in which case they should avoid it.
How do I choose a good quality whey protein supplement?
When choosing a whey protein supplement, it is important to look for one that is made from high-quality ingredients and is free of contaminants. Here are a few tips to consider:
Look for a product that is made from whey protein isolate or concentrate, as these are the purest forms of whey protein.
Check the ingredient list to make sure that it does not contain any artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.
Choose a product that has been third-party tested for purity and quality.
Look for a product that has a good flavor and mixes easily.
Consider your personal needs and goals when choosing a whey protein supplement. For example, if you are lactose intolerant, you may want to look for a product that is made from whey protein isolate or has most of the lactose removed.
Can I take whey protein with other supplements or medications?
It is generally safe to take whey protein with other supplements and medications, but it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Some supplements and medications may interact with each other, so it is important to be aware of any potential interactions.
How do I store whey protein?
It is important to store whey protein in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh and prevent it from going bad. It is recommended to keep the container tightly sealed when it is not in use to protect it from moisture and contaminants. It is also a good idea to check the expiration date before using any supplement to ensure that it is still safe to consume.