How To Choose A Protein Powder You Actually Enjoy Drinking

Protein powders: Some people love them, while others have been burned by them. What group you fall into really comes down to the type of protein and the overall quality of the formulation. But it's hard to decipher from the seemingly thousands of options out there which one is the best. And unfortunately, not very many are crafted with care for optimal taste, texture, and health benefits. (This is the main reason we formulated our own: grass-fed whey protein isolate+.)

To reap the benefits of protein powders (think meeting your daily protein needs, building lean muscle, balancing blood sugar, and losing fat), you have to stay consistent with it.* That's near impossible if you don't like what you're consuming. 

This is something I've heard many times as a dietitian. And I find that people are always quick to blame whey protein for this. For those with lactose intolerance, it can be. However, other ingredients like sugar alcohols and thickening agents may also be the culprit of gas and bloating. These additives are both linked to gas and bloating, especially when consumed in high amounts. 

Solution: If you have a sensitive stomach but still want all the benefits of an animal-based protein powder, then look for a whey isolate. Whey isolate is about 90 to 95% protein and less than 1% lactose1 (while whey concentrate is only about 70-80%2 protein and has slightly more lactose than whey isolate).*

Lots of protein powders are labeled "sugar-free," as they contain low- or no-calorie sweeteners. These could be the sugar alcohols we mentioned above, artificial sweeteners (sucralose, aspartame, or saccharin), stevia, or monk fruit. 

Solution: Look for protein powders that are only lightly sweetened, preferably with monk fruit, stevia (although some people don't like the aftertaste it leaves), or organic vanilla. And avoid artificial flavors.

A high-quality protein powder should never taste chalky, which may happen if the powder clumps together. High-quality brands should ensure that the powder disperses readily in liquid with proper mixing. If it doesn't and you see it clumping together, shake it thoroughly in a shaker, use a frothing device, or blend it into a smoothie.

Some people prefer mixing their protein with a hot beverage, like coffee. But you may notice the protein powder clumping together, even after being stirred. 

We've talked a lot about making sure your protein powder is mixed into a liquid before consuming it. But when this happens, air is incorporated, potentially creating a foamy beverage. This by no means is a sign that something is wrong. Think about it: If you shake milk or froth milk for a latte, it creates foam because it's incorporating air. While some people love this attribute (it can create a milkshake-like consistency), others would rather minimize this attribute. 

Not everyone experiences skin blemishes from a protein powder. But for those with a genetic predisposition, dairy-based products3 may be a potential contributing factor.