Best budget protein powder
NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
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These protein-packed supplements are popular for their convenience and effectiveness. However, given the number of options out there, finding the best protein powder for you might be more challenging than you think. Not all protein powders are created equal. You’ll need to sort through the additives, texture, taste and flavors to find the one .
We pulled together a curated list of the best protein powders for women based on a few key factors. We didn’t test these products in-house. Our selections are based on product research for certifications, sugar content and ingredients.
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Do women need different protein powders than men?
Sorry to shatter the illusion right from the start, but protein powder is protein powder. There’s no difference between what men should drink and what women should drink. That’s right — it’s all marketing.
There are women-focused additives such as vitamins in protein powders marketed toward women. However, these additives aren’t necessary for the purpose of protein in the body. If you want to take advantage of these extra vitamins, you will pay the pink tax for them.
Our list includes the best protein powders out there. Many of these will be the best protein powders for women, but we didn’t include options marketed only to women.
<div content="LIST ITEM" superlative="Best whey protein powder" description="
Naked Whey takes our pick for the best whey protein powder for its straight-to-the-point ingredients. You don’t have to worry about any artificial sweeteners or additives. There is only one ingredient, whey protein concentrate. Whey concentrate is a great starting place for people new to protein powder and want something they can drink before or after a workout.
It’s also worth noting that it’s sourced from grass-fed cows. That might not seem like it would matter for protein powder, but it does make a difference. Grass-fed cow milk is often higher in nutrients , like omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also gluten- and soy-free.
We’re highlighting the unflavored option, which is great for adding to your smoothies if you want your powder to go unnoticed. However, Naked Whey also offers chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavors. Keep in mind that flavoring means that the powder is sweetened with coconut sugar. That doesn’t automatically mean it’s unhealthy; it just increases the number of carbs per serving.
User reviews have praised the taste and texture of Naked Whey. You don’t get the Stevia taste which often comes with many other no-sugar powders. If you haven’t tasted it before, you should know that Stevia activates our tongues’ bitter receptors . Which means you’re left with a bitter aftertaste when you drink it. Some people don’t mind it, while others dislike it. You can expect a creamy texture that’s nice and smooth, not chalky or grainy, when you drink it.
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Naked Whey takes our pick for the best whey protein powder for its straight-to-the-point ingredients. You don’t have to worry about any artificial sweeteners or additives. There is only one ingredient, whey protein concentrate. Whey concentrate is a great starting place for people new to protein powder and want something they can drink before or after a workout.
It’s also worth noting that it’s sourced from grass-fed cows. That might not seem like it would matter for protein powder, but it does make a difference. Grass-fed cow milk is often higher in nutrients , like omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also gluten- and soy-free.
We’re highlighting the unflavored option, which is great for adding to your smoothies if you want your powder to go unnoticed. However, Naked Whey also offers chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavors. Keep in mind that flavoring means that the powder is sweetened with coconut sugar. That doesn’t automatically mean it’s unhealthy; it just increases the number of carbs per serving.
User reviews have praised the taste and texture of Naked Whey. You don’t get the Stevia taste which often comes with many other no-sugar powders. If you haven’t tasted it before, you should know that Stevia activates our tongues’ bitter receptors . Which means you’re left with a bitter aftertaste when you drink it. Some people don’t mind it, while others dislike it. You can expect a creamy texture that’s nice and smooth, not chalky or grainy, when you drink it.
<div content="LIST ITEM" superlative="Best plant-based protein powder" description="
Made from peas, brown rice and chia seeds, Orgain takes our pick for the best plant-based protein powder. It’s certified organic, vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile choice for people with dietary limitations. Did we mention that it’s also one of the most affordable plant-based protein powders available?
With almost 30,000 reviews on Amazon , users say you get a smooth, creamy texture when mixed — no lumps.
Unlike Naked Whey which only has protein concentrate, Orgain is packed with several other high-quality ingredients. It has a mix of over 50 fruits, vegetables and herbs — some are blends, others from extract. With Orgain, you’re getting several essential vitamins and minerals that you won’t get with other powders. We should mention that because of this hefty nutritional profile, it does have significantly more carbohydrates than other options on the list, with 21 grams per serving. That said, Orgain is high in iron, which does set it apart.
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With 30 grams of protein, Vega Sport Premium Protein Powder has the most protein in a single serving on the list. Athletes trying to build muscles at a high rate need more protein , which is why we consider Vega the best protein powder for athletes. As a bonus, it’s plant-based.
You’re not just getting protein with Vega; you’re getting probiotics too. Probiotics are known for contributing to your immune system and gut health. It also has been shown to support female reproductive health . In addition to things like black pepper extract and alfalfa protein, Vega has tart cherry powder that’s linked to reducing inflammation and improved endurance .
We should mention that Vega also has the highest sodium levels of all the protein powders on this list. This isn’t a problem for some athletes since sodium is lost while sweating . However, Vega’s sodium level is something to consider when added to your regular diet for the average person.
Vega Sport Protein Powder is NSF Certified for Sport — meaning that a third party has tested Vega and confirmed that it is free of any banned substances.