Best Whey Protein Powder For Smoothies

Whey Protein In Smoothies

Whey blends up the best, the only issue is that you need to get the right kind of whey. Most whey protein powders are sold for bodybuilders who mix them in a shaker cup after a workout. They are normally flavored chocolate, with some less common flavors being vanilla and strawberry. Now, the thing about this is that these flavors dont mix well with smoothies which tend to be made either with fruit or vegetables. Luckily, though, there are other flavors you can get.

ON nutrition, for instance does make some berry flavors. These would work well with something like a blueberry smoothie or a strawberry smoothie. Of course, you could also choose a plain whey. ON doesnt sell plain whey though, so you should look for a brand like Naked Whey. This is a really popular whey with the health conscious workout population because its got zero additives. Another advantage to some of the clean wheys is that they dont use milk from cows that were fed any sort of bovine growth hormone. So, if youre someone who buys organic fruit and veggies, and organic coconut water, to blend up, then it might be worth it to invest in a clean whey. A clean, unflavored whey is my suggestion. It wont alter the flavor of your smoothie so you can enjoy your smoothie with extra protein without having to deal with an unpleasant taste.

Best Protein For Smoothies

After years of trying to find a powder that I enjoyed adding to my smoothies, I gave up. It didnât exist. There was either too much junk in it, or not enough of the right stuff. I went on a quest to create my own powder that I could use every day and love how it tasted, what was in it and the results I got. And I couldnât be happier with the outcome.

Protein Smoothie Boost is the best sourced plant based protein powder that isnât gritty, tastes good in a fruit smoothie and is good for you. I think youll be pretty impressed with the results. Protein Smoothie Boost is a certified organic blend that contains all 9 essential amino acids.

I used 100% organic ingredients, packed in 10 grams protein boost per serving, with no sweeteners of ANY kind. No stevia, no monk fruit, no artificial sweeteners, no sugars at all.

Garden Of Life Raw Organic Protein

This protein powder is also organic, vegan and non-GMO. It contains a slightly higher amount of protein per serving than Orgain, however the taste is nowhere near as good. When its blended into a smoothie, its not as noticeable but if youre after the best tasting protein powder then go with Orgain. If youd like a bit more protein and slightly less calories, this a good option.

Protein source: Pea protein, brown rice protein

Nutrition per serving: 22 grams protein, 110-130 calories, 1-3 grams fiber

Servings per container: 20

Banana is also one of the best tasting protein powder flavours for smoothies.

Likewise, its a well-known flavour that is loved by many including adults and teenagers.

Whats great about banana fruit is that they contain potassium, fibre and vitamin B6. Theyre also a good source of vitamin C and have almost no fat. Theyre so easy to store its no wonder theyre a favourite fruit!

For those wanting a little extra flavour in their smoothie, banana is a great choice. Subtle but tasty, ingredients such as almond milk, rolled oats, and cinnamon complement this flavour well.

Happy Ways Banana Bonanza Whey Protein Powder tastes like a homemade banana smoothie but better! Its jam-packed with superfoods such as Maca powder and chia seeds. It also offers a great energy boost, so have it before a busy day or session at the gym. Great for post-exercise recovery, you can complete your workout regime with a smoothie using Banana Bonanza Whey Protein Powder.

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Ingredients & Potential Interactions

It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking.

Additives: In addition to considering the protein source, look at the ingredient list and aim to choose powders without artificial ingredients, including colorings, flavorings, or sweeteners. Also, some protein powders contain added dietary fiber, MCT oil, probiotics, digestive enzymes, herbal blends, vitamins, and minerals, some of which may not be backed by adequate research and may not be suitable for all.

Food allergens: Some protein powders contain common food allergens such as milk proteins, so be sure to check the label and choose one that meets your dietary needs. If you have highly sensitive allergies, check to make sure the product is made in a facility that practices cross-contamination precautions.

Entire Grain Toast With Peanut Butter

After a tough sweat sesh its necessary to refuel with carbs as nicely. By pairing toast with peanut butter youre getting advanced carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and wholesome fat. This key mixture of vitamins is ideal for muscle-building and replenishing glycogen shops.

Read more: best breakfast smoothies to lose weight

Protein powder could be good in a pinch.however entire, actual meals are extra nutritionally dense than protein powders and can at all times be superior. Additionally they take longer to eat and are thus extra satisfying. To maximise the results of your exercise, make your subsequent post-workout meal filled with actual meals versus processed protein powders or bars!

Do you utilize protein powder after a exercise?

What are your favourite sources of protein?

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Protein Type And Ingredients

It is best to check the products label before committing to a purchase. The label should include a list of all the ingredients and suggestions of how a person should use the product.

For example, some protein powders are free of gluten, soy, and dairy, making them suitable for people with allergies or intolerances. Also, a person who follows a keto diet may look for a product that is low in carbohydrates.

Furthermore, buyers may also wish to check whether the item is animal-based or plant-based. Animal-based protein powders often contain casein, whey, collagen, and eggs. Plant-based products often contain pea, rice, and hemp proteins.

Ascent Native Fuel Micellar Casein

Ascent uses only natural ingredients, and it has 25 grams of protein for only 110 to 130 calories, depending on the flavor,” says Tara Collingwood, RD, the team dietitian for the Orlando Magic. “Its also an excellent source of all essential amino acids.

Per serving: 130 calories, 1 g fat, , 5 g carbs, 0 g sugar, 140 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 25 g protein

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What Are The Best Flavors Of Protein Powders

Below, you will find a review of the best-tasting protein powders at a price ranging from $30 to $45. You can choose between the five most popular flavors: chocolate, cookies and cream, vanilla, strawberry, or a natural flavor of plant-based proteins. These are delicious and effective powders from trustworthy brands that are well-known for their high-quality nutritional supplements.

How We Test And Recommend

As the former food and nutrition editor for Runners World and avid runner I know all about how nutrition can make or break a workout. And like the RW test editors, Im always trying new nutrition products that will help my performance and recovery . When choosing protein powders, I looked only for certified products, assessed taste and how well the powder dissolved, and of course, the amount of protein per scoop and serving. I also considered the source of protein while I prefer whey products, not everyone wants a dairy-based supplement. To round out my knowledge of protein powders, I spoke with registered dietitian Jenna Braddock about her favorite brands across protein types.

• Tastes good without the grit
• Complete protein

• Some might not be able to tolerate the dairy

Key Specs

• Serving Size: 1 scoop
• Protein Per Serving: 24 g

Unlike other whey protein powders , Braddock says, this product contains probiotics for people looking to give a boost to their gut health. It also uses erythritol, a sugar alcohol, as a sweetener, which is unique, Braddock says.

RW: Youve tested lots of protein powders. Whats your go-to for personal use?

J.B.: I use different protein powders for different circumstances. My favorite general nutrition shake with proteinthat tastes deliciousis Complete by Juice Plus+. Its a whole foodbased shake mix that has additional superfoods in it, which I like. And my whole family enjoys it. We always mix it in something.

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How To Use Protein Powder

Keep in mind that protein powder should not be used to replace healthy sources of protein in your diet, because high protein foods also provide other valuable nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Still, supplements can be an easy and convenient way to increase your protein intake, as there are many ways to use protein powder.

The simplest way is to mix it with a beverage, such as water or milk, or blend it with other ingredients, such as fruits and veggies, to create a smoothie.

You can also mix protein powder into simple foods such as yogurt, oatmeal, or dips.

If you feel like getting creative, experiment with using protein powder as an addition or substitution in your usual recipes. For example, you can use protein powder in soups, veggie burgers, and baked goods.

Verywell Fit Approved Best Tasting Protein Powders

• Best Overall: Sprout Living Epic Protein Powder is slightly sweet but not overpowering, has 19 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber, and is both vegan and a complete protein.
• Best for Athletes: Thorne Chocolate Whey Protein has 21 grams of protein per serving from whey isolate and is NSF Certified for Sport, making it a safe choice for athletes.

Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take.

• Certified organic, vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and kosher

• Contains 4 grams of fiber

• Contains inulin which may cause GI discomfort

Who else recommends it? Good Housekeeping picked Sprout Living Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma.

What do buyers say? 87% of 1,600+ Amazon reviewers rated this product 4 stars or above.

If youre looking for a slightly sweet protein powder that tastes great mixed with almond milk or in your favorite smoothie, Sprout Livings Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma is the top choice. The neutral vanilla flavor provides a hint of sweetness but doesnt overpower the beverage its mixed into. Plus, the gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free plant-based protein powder checks all the nutrition boxes.

Key protein sources: yellow pea, sunflower seed, pumpkin seed| Serving size: 2 scoops | Amount of protein per serving: 19 grams| Calories per serving: 146 | Vegan: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes| Additives: Yes – Stevia leaf

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Fitcrunch Whey Protein Powder

FITCRUNCH is one of the most underappreciated health supplement companies on the market. This company has a line of delicious tri-blend whey protein powders that are perfect for people on a keto diet. This supplement was made with a recipe from chef Robert Irvine. It is made to taste like pumpkin pie with a hint of delicious spices. Every serving contains 25 g. of quality proteins and only three carbohydrates. It does not contain any soy or GMOs.

Mrm Nutrition Egg White Vanilla Protein Powder

Is there anything eggs cant do? This quality protein can be scrambled, baked, boiled, and now added to your daily smoothie, too. Egg whites are flavored with vanilla and sweetened with stevia and monk fruit to create a tasty protein powder thats ideal for anyone avoiding dairy and also looking for animal protein. Stay fueled all day long by adding it to this Strawberry Veggie Smoothie.

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Who Shouldnt Take Protein Supplements

Children shouldnt take protein supplements unless directed by a dietitian. The NHS advises that consuming too much protein in the long term is linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, and may worsen existing kidney problems.

Some people find protein powders difficult to digest its best to include them gradually into your diet, and see how you get on.

Although allergens should be stated on the label, anyone with allergies should be cautious about using a new supplement as there is an obvious risk of cross-contamination in factories. Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for existing medical conditions should consult their GP before starting new supplements.

Matching It With Your Goals

While the idea with a protein powder is always to boost your daily protein intake, the use case can vary tremendously.

Some of us buy protein powder to lose weight while some do it to bulk up and build muscle. Therefore, you must always ensure that the product you buy matches your goals in terms of nutrition.

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What Is Whey Protein

Whey is one of the main, natural proteins found in dairy milk. Whey is typically turned into a powder after it is separated from the rest of dairy milk during the cheese-making process . It contains a high amount of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Since whey comes from an animal source, it contains all nine essential amino acids. Whey also tends to blend nicely into liquids, which are a few reasons why it is preferred by many people who want to boost their protein intake. Whey protein supplements are often consumed by adding to smoothies, liquids, and baked goods, such as muffins or energy balls.

Protein Plays An Important Role

But as much as I adore produce , theres something else I find equally important to include in a smoothie: protein.

Consuming protein with a meal can help us feel more satisfied. Not to mention the MANY roles of protein in our bodies, like hormones, enzymes, cell and tissue structure, and so, so much more.

For more information on the role of protein in our bodies, check out this post I wrote detailing everything you need to know about protein.

Protein powders and other protein-rich supplements are very popular options for easy ways to add protein to smoothies. But I know protein powders arent the solution for everyone. Many people dont like the taste or texture of protein powders, some prefer whole, real food sources, and others just dont want to buy or consume protein powders. Whatever the reason, thats okay! But its still important to balance your smoothie with a little protein.

So, Im sharing a resource I give to my clients with 40 ways to add protein to smoothies without powders! Youll see a wide variety of foods, from dairy products to nuts and seeds to even fruit and vegetables.

Before I share the list, I do want to know that the list is arranged by what I and my clients have often felt are acceptable amounts of these food sources to include in a smoothie i.e. more than a couple tablespoons of nuts is going to add way more calories and healthy fats than protein, and may leave little room for other ingredients.

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Who Should Use Whey Protein Powder

People may use whey protein powder for a variety of reasons.

For example, some people prefer to use whey protein in shakes and smoothies to increase their daily protein intake, while others use whey protein to enhance muscle recovery and promote muscle growth after strenuous workouts.

You can use whey protein in the same way you would any other protein product. Its delicious in smoothies and shakes but can also be added to meals and snacks such as oatmeal, Greek yogurt parfaits, and energy balls.

Ascent Micellar Chocolate Peanut Butter Casein Powder

Recover and build muscle while you sleep with this delicious casein protein powder flavored with chocolate and peanut butter from Ascent. Unlike whey , casein is more slowly digested and provides a sustained release of amino acids thats ideal for before bedtime. Made with simple ingredients, youll get 25 grams of protein and muscle-building BCAAs in every scoop. Take this Chocolate Post-Workout Smoothie to the next level with Ascents Native Fuel Micellar Casein Powder.

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Verywell Fit Approved Whey Protein Powders

• Best Overall: Momentous Essential Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate is our top choice, because it contains easy to digest grass fed whey isolate and is NSF Certified for Sport.
• Best Organic: Garden of Life Certified Organic Grass Fed Whey Protein is an organic whey concentrate protein powder that is free from fillers.

Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine, to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take.

Given that protein powders are supplements that are minimally regulated by the FDA, the quality of the brand matters even more to ensure a safe product. If you are a competitive athlete, we recommend choosing a protein powder that is third-party tested to avoid accidentally consuming prohibited substances. Examples of third-party testing companies include NSF, USP, and ConsumerLabs.

What Risks Are Associated With Protein Powders

For most people, theres little direct harm in consuming protein powders, and there can be a time and a place for the convenience and simplicity they offer, says Harbstreet. Depending on lifestyle, budget and performance or training goals, can be one of many useful tools.

However, she adds that protein powders carry a risk of heavy metal contamination. In fact, one study found 40% of 133 protein powder products tested had elevated levels of heavy metalsBandara SB, Towle KM, Monnot AD. A human health risk assessment of heavy metal ingestion among consumers of protein powder supplements. Toxicol Rep. 2020 7:1255-1262. . Finding a brand that uses third-party testing for its products may ease this concern. Additionally, regularly consuming more protein than necessary can come with its own set of risks, namely an increased risk of kidney stones.

A 2021 review also found chronic use of whey protein supplementation without professional guidance can lead to adverse health effects, particularly on liver and kidney functionVasconcelos QDJS, Bachur TPR, Aragão GF. Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2021 46:27-33. . Experts also note that the additional calories from protein powders can add up quickly, potentially leading to weight gain.

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