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Your Top Protein Powder Picks
- Sarah Beherns
- Jul 23, 2021
- 4 min read
Whey vs Pea protein?...Is organic worth the extra cash?...What's the difference between collagen protein and other protein isolates?...
If any of these questions (or a slew of others) have ever crossed your mind while looking to invest in a protein powder, you are not alone. The supplement industry is vast, at times confusing, and unfortunately wildly unregulated. So I am here to help clear the air!
I have researched and tried numerous brands, and based on dietary restrictions (gluten or dairy free), price point, and ingredient quality, I wanted to share some of my personal favorites to help you decipher what is right for you. And with my 30 day "Thrive" plan or
"A Fresh Start" recipe guide, you'll want to add a protein supplement you enjoy for all those yummy smoothie recipes! Below are my top picks and how to determine which one will be best for you and your goals & lifestyle.
*As always, I recommend being your own investigator and self advocate! Choosing what is best for you personally can be a "trial and error" process and may change over time, as your goals and body are constantly evolving.
Whey Protein
What it is: Whey is the protein found in dairy, when separated from the casein in the making of many dairy derived products such as cheese.
Benefits: Increased muscle mass & building strength, improved athletic performance.
Whey proteins tend to be undergo a more strict testing process (safety and performance) and usually have a higher protein content per serving to help you meet your proteins needs.
Avoid if: You have a dairy intolerance or choose a vegan diet.
What to look for when shopping: to ensure the highest quality, opt for grass fed, anti-biotic & hormone free. You may pay a bit more but the health benefits from avoiding those things are exponential.
My pick: Levels Grass Fed Whey Protein
High protein content, grass fed, non GMO, anti-biotic free, and no added sugar, a winner by my standards! Here's the direct link to the vanilla bean flavor (perfect addition to any smoothie!)
Plant Based
What it is: Typically derived from high protein plants such as soy, chia seeds, or hemp hearts.
Benefits: Can be better if weight loss is your goal as it is typically lower in calories and higher in fiber. Also, can be used if you are dairy free or vegan.
Avoid if: You are sensitive to high fiber foods or experience gastrointestinal disorders.
What to look for when shopping: Since these protein sources are derived from plants, some studies have found high levels of heavy metals, such as lead (found in soil, thus transferring to the plant), so do your research to ensure you are using a brand that tests for contamination.
My pick: Four Sigmatic
A combination of plant based protein sources, with the added benefits of superfood adaptagenic mushrooms to boost immune function and brain health. And its gluten free, organic, and tastes great! What's not to love about all that?! Click the link to shop and check out their other incredible elixirs available on their website, I love and swear by them all.
Collagen Protein
What it is: Collagen is made from amino acids derived from bovine connective tissue, fish, and eggs.
Benefits: While collagen is a less complete form of protein (meaning your body can only use it for certain functions) it is known to have "anti aging" properties like relieving joint pain, preventing bone density loss, improving skin elasticity, and aiding in hair and nail growth.
If you have any nut allergies, typically collagen protein is a safe bet to be nut free also.
What to look for when shopping: Try to find a collagen that includes multiple types
(I, II, III, V, X) to get the most bang for your buck.
Avoid if: Some people experience heart burn or are dissatisfied by the taste (however, I believe this is based on the quality of the product you have chosen). Again, collagen alone is NOT a complete source of protein, so be sure you are still intaking an adequate amount via other protein sources.
My pick: Ancient Nutrition
Made from a variety of nutrient dense sources (egg shells, bovine, or marine), gluten, dairy, and soy free, it is able to meet any dietary lifestyle. It mixes easily in smoothies but is AMAZING in any hot drink like coffee or tea to add a bit of flavor and sweetness. My fave beverages minus the sugary creamers? YES PLEASE! Their multi collagen is a great place to start, and if you aren't sure about the taste or texture of the powder, Ancient Nutrition also has collagen peptide capsules available; see more below!
What's currently in my pantry...
Truvani is a protein power powder I recently discovered and made the switch to this brand because of its "limited ingredient" promise, assuring me that it is made with premium, organic ingredients, and not filled to the brim with, well...fillers. I trust this brand and the founder Vani, better known as "The Food Babe", as her and her company and the proclaimed Food Babe Army (myself included, join us and the mission!) continue to fight Big Food and government agencies, advocating for the removal of harmful ingredients from so many of the "foods"
we find on grocery store shelves and in restaurants nation wide. Their ingredient transparency drew me to this product and so far, I am loving it.
Want to try it too? Click below!
Not a protein powder pro?
If you are new to the world of protein powder supplementation, and are unsure of where to start, I recommend trying out Thrive Market! They have their own store brand that is one of the best prices you can find for the ensured product quality. Not to mention their online service and app is my absolute favorite place to shop all my wellness needs; from nutrition and non toxic living, better for baby and pet products, and even a selection of clean wines, they are your new wellness one stop shop. Follow the link to get started with Thrive Market and save on your first order with me!
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