If you’re looking at your supplement routine, odds are you understand the muscle-building and wellness benefits afforded by the best protein powders. Did you know, though, that these tasty shakes can be just as effective for weight loss journeys, too? Studies indicate that a high-protein diet can help with increased satiety, boosted thermogenesis, and increased fat burn during exercise. (1)
While finding a solid protein shake is easy, finding an ideal formulation for weight loss is more involved. So, to give you a leg up in your search, we gathered over 100 top-ranked protein powders for our own tests and consumption, compiled our notes, and broke down each formulation to come up with our favorite protein powders for weight loss.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick for the best protein powder for weight loss is Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate, which received near-perfect marks from our registered dietitian for its formulation and tested well for both taste and solubility.
The 9 Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss (2024)
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein
- Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein
- Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Gainful Plant-Based Protein
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+
- Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
- Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine.
Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss Video Review
Join BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, and registered dietitian nutritionist Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, as they break down our picks for the best protein powders for weight loss, from the best-tasting to our favorites for vegans and athletes.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2
- Protein Source: 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28g
- Calories Per Serving: 120-150
- Available Flavors: Milk Chocolate, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, French Vanilla, Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Strawberry Milkshake, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Mocha, Cinnamon French Toast, Blueberry Pancakes, Sugar Cookie
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
If you’re familiar with our protein-related content, you’re aware of our praise for this impressive powder from Transparent Labs. This high-quality supplement earns its place atop this list thanks to its protein-rich formulation with lower counts of fats and carbs, abundance of flavor options, and excellent solubility when mixed with water or other beverage bases.
“I love that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is free from artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives,” says registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN. “You get 28 grams of high-quality protein without any unnecessary fluff.” She gave this protein a 4.5 out of 5 for formulation, one of the highest ratings any protein we have tested has received.
We also like how Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate uses 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate as its sole source of protein. Whey protein isolate is a more refined type of whey protein that’s filtered to remove the lactose and fat content. Additionally, studies indicate that supplementing with whey protein isolate may help offer prebiotic benefits that reduce weight gain associated with a high-fat diet. (3)
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, said this protein powder was one of the best when it came to solubility, rating this Transparent Labs offering at 5 out of 5 for the category. “I had no hiccups in blending this protein powder with my liquid of choice — typically, water or milk,” they noted. “There were no clumps or residue. It’s one of the smoothest protein powders I’ve ever had.”
Another area where Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate earned a perfect score was in the flavor variety. The 5 out of 5 rating, of course, stemmed from our personal enjoyment with the tested flavors, as well as Transparent Labs’ roster of tastes. However, some flavors offer more or less carbs, fats, and overall calories.
Of course, though, this impressive protein powder for weight loss has its faults, too. We rate this supplement at 3.5 out of 5 for costs per serving because the $2 per dose is higher than most powders on the market (most others are $1 to $1.75 per serving). There’s also no bulk buy option.
Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate Review.
Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $0.93
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 110-140
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate, Cinnamon French Toast, Cookies and Cream, Peanut Butter, Unflavored, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie
- Third-Party Testing: None
When looking for a protein powder for any fitness goal, you’re likely to find plenty of whey protein options. While there’s no shortage of viable whey protein powders out there, for weight loss, specifically, we recommend Authentic ISO from Jacked Factory as one of the best whey protein powders.
We like how this impressive protein supplement uses grass-fed whey protein isolate as its protein source, as this type of protein is more filtered and refined than whey protein concentrate, which can aid in thermogenesis. (7)
Our expert was pretty satisfied with the formula overall. “Some flavors provide up to 300 mg of sodium, which is a significant portion of your recommended daily intake,” Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D says, giving the formula a 4.25 out of 5.. “If you’re watching your sodium intake for any reason, you might not be keen on this protein powder.”
Additionally, this protein powder earns a 5 out of 5 for cost thanks to its budget-friendly price. We’ve found this protein listed as low as $0.93 per serving, which is well below the average $1 to $1.75 typically found across the category. Cost will vary by flavor, though, so you may need to adjust your palate preferences if you want the best deal.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, gave Authentic ISO some high flavor praise during trials. “I really enjoyed the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, which had a good consistency when mixed with milk. I’d also recommend adding some ice cubes to your concoction for a sweet treat throughout the day.” Be mindful, though, that some flavors may be too sweet for certain taste buds, according to some customers.
As pleasing and enjoyable as this protein shake is, though, we’d be remiss to not point out the potential side effects. Studies indicate that the sweetening agents here (stevia and sucralose) can cause GI distress in some athletes. (12)
Read our full Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Review.
Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Onnit Whey Protein
A grass-fed whey isolate includes added ingredients for digestion like seven digestive enzymes and a probiotic (lactobacillus acidophilus). It's also gluten-free, sugar-free, and soy-free.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2
- Protein Type: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Calories Per Serving: 110-120
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Mexican Chocolate
- Third-Party Testing: None
Supplementing with whey protein when working to lose weight can help increase diet-induced thermogenesis and satiety throughout your day. (7) Of course, you’ve got to actually drink your shake to reap those benefits, and that can be tough if you’re dreading the taste. Thankfully, there are plenty of flavorful options to choose from for your journey, with Onnit’s Whey Protein being our favorite when it comes to one of the best tasting protein powders.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated Onnit Whey Protein’s taste and flavor profile at 5 out of 5. “I was really surprised by the unique chocolate notes across the Mexican Chocolate variety,” they noted. “I really enjoy this protein when combining it with whole milk or oat milk.”
Depending on your preferred flavor — Vanilla or the aforementioned Mexican Chocolate — you can expect either 110 or 120 calories per serving. This can be great for weight loss, as the fewer calories within each shake prove less of a threat to your caloric deficit throughout the day. “Onnit Whey Protein scores a 4.5 out of 5 for its formula,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D. “The macro ratio is on point for its goals, and the enzyme blend is intriguing.”
Bourgeois dinged the formulation score slightly since the macronutrient split is less protein-heavy than other powders we’ve tested. Its fat content clocks in between 2 and 2.5 grams per dose, while carbs sit at 3 to 4 grams. This may be less ideal for weight loss, she says, recommending a weight loss protein composed of 90% protein. With these measurements, Onnit contains between 75% and 80% protein.
Despite the less protein-dominant formulation, we still hold this protein in high regard for flavor and solubility. Even when mixing this powder with water, our tester noted no clumps or residue, leading to their 5 out of 5 rating for mixability.
Will you find a robust variety of flavors with this protein powder for weight loss? No, but Onnit’s attention to detail has produced two top-notch tastes that we won’t get tired of anytime soon. What this protein supplement lacks in flavor quantity, it most certainly makes up for in quality.
Read our full Onnit Whey Protein Review.
Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Casein Protein
Free of artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners, Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Casein is an incredibly straightforward supplement without fillers. It's also remarkably low in fat and carbohydrates.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2
- Protein Source: Instantized micellar casein protein
- Protein Per Serving: 25g
- Calories Per Serving: 120
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
For athletes targeting weight loss, whey protein isn’t the only option for maintaining muscle mass and increasing satiety throughout the day. The best casein protein can be just as fulfilling thanks to its slower-digesting makeup that can help you stay full, particularly during the evening hours and post-workout. (11) In our opinion, Transparent Labs Casein Protein tops the list when it comes to casein proteins for such a need.
“Transparent Labs Casein Protein scores a 4.75 out of 5 for its formulation,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D. “I’m a fan of the macro breakdown that Transparent Labs offers with their Casein Protein powder. You get a whopping 25 grams of protein without an overwhelming amount of carbs or fat. It helps you meet your protein needs without overdoing it in other areas.”
The protein per serving can be excellent for staving off those cravings in between meals or workouts, stemming back to casein’s slow-digesting qualities. This is also why casein is typically consumed in the evening — it stays in your system throughout the night to help build muscle more so than whey protein.
We do recommend paying close attention to the carb count with this powder. While not an outrageous amount, 4 grams of carbohydrates is higher than other proteins we’ve tested, which may be a detriment if you’re looking to limit carb intake during weight loss.
Like other Transparent Labs products, this Casein Powder is free of artificial preservatives, colorings, and flavors for a clean makeup when compared to other formulations on the market.
While there’s only Vanilla and Chocolate flavors to choose from, we still rate this Transparent Labs Casein at 5 out of 5 when it comes to overall taste. Additionally, our tester, a certified nutrition coach, gives this powder a 4.5 out of 5 for solubility. “I had no issues in breaking up clumps during blends,” they noted. “This was quite the welcome treat, as other caseins I’ve had tend to clump up more often than not.”
This casein also shares some less-than-ideal similarities with its brand brethren, though. For one, there’s only one 30-serving container to choose from, meaning there’s no opportunity to buy in bulk. This is also a detriment, as there’s no chance to potentially shrink the $2 cost per serving.
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Gainful Vegan Protein
Gainful Plant-Based Protein Powder offers up to 24 grams of organic brown rice and pea protein, which delivers a complete amino acid profile.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $3.21
- Protein Source: Organic brown rice and pea protein
- Protein Per Serving: Up to 24g
- Calories Per Serving: Around 120
- Available Flavors: Flavor boost packs available in Sea Salt Caramel, Rich Chocolate, Cinnamon Toast, Cookies and Cream, Cafe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry Cream, and Madagascar Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: None
Studies show that plant-derived protein sources are often less calorie-dense than their animal-based counterparts. (13) This could potentially spark cravings. Thankfully, Gainful Plant-Based Protein has a robust, transparent makeup that leaves you satiated and supported throughout your supplement regimen, making it one of the best vegan protein powders.
Gainful packs a powerful 20 to 24 grams of protein from organic brown rice and pea protein, keeping its macronutrients on-par with other animal-based powders we’ve tested over the years. “I really like that Gainful offers a personalized protein powder formula, and I like that it’s unsweetened and free from artificial ingredients,” according to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, who rated the formula 4.5 out of 5.
Our personal testers were happy with the flavor. “I am not always a fan of super sweet powders, but I really enjoyed this one. For this flavor, I definitely think you should use water instead of milk. I think closer to 8 ounces would be the ideal base to create the best taste,” they said.
Unfortunately, Gainful missed the solubility mark, earning a 3 out of 5 in this category. The powder clumped with milk and water. “I also found that clumps were more prominent when mixed with a thicker liquid like milk,” notes our tester. “I’d recommend a countertop blender over a shaker bottle for this protein powder.”
This is an excellent weight loss protein powder for vegan athletes, as you’ll get about 120 calories per shake, depending on which flavor boosts you add.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women: Legion Whey+
An all natural, non-GMO, fat-free whey that's cheaper than many competitors, Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder is made from 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from sustainable dairy farms in Ireland. It's also higher in calcium compared to other powders on the market.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: Starting at $1.46
- Protein Source: 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Grams Per Serving: 21-23g
- Calories Per Serving: 100-130
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies and Cream, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored, Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
While we’ve stated that the best protein supplements for weight loss aren’t specific to any gender, there are some formulations that may benefit one individual more so than the other. (6) For example, studies show that a protein rich in BCAAs can support fat oxidation in those targeting weight loss. (9) With 5.6 grams of a well-balanced amino acid profile, we recommend Legion’s Whey+ for such needs.
We previously declared this product one of the best protein powders for women thanks to its natural makeup containing no hormones, artificial ingredients, or added sugars. Legion also pays close attention to its protein source for Whey+, using whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows raised on small dairy farms in Ireland.
As far as macronutrients are concerned, Chelsae Rae Bourgeios, a registered dietitian, rates it high. “Legion Whey+ scores a 4.75 out of 5 for its formula. It’s not the most protein-dense protein powder, but its macro ratios and ingredient sources are impressive,” she says.
Be mindful, though, that Whey+ does not include any extra digestive enzymes, which could lead to some side effects for female athletes susceptible to stomach discomfort and bloat with other protein powders. According to research, women may be more prone to these side effects than their male counterparts. (14)
We also gave Whey+ a 4.5 out of 5 when it comes to flavor and taste. Our tester said the Cinnamon Cereal variety was less rich than they’d prefer — it’s hard to find a protein supplement with as robust of a lineup as this one. You have 16 flavors to choose from, which should help prevent flavor fatigue.
In terms of solubility, Legion Whey+ scored a 3 out of 5. “There were still some noticeable particles floating throughout the container, so I’d suggest using a blender when you can,” our tester advises.
Finally, Legion offers Whey+ in multiple container sizes, which is great for athletes who prefer to buy their supplements in bulk. We recommend taking advantage of the larger tubs when possible, though, as this protein can begin to creep toward the expensive side of the spectrum. Larger containers, including 78-serving and 82-serving bags, can help keep costs per serving down around $1.46 — a price more in line with other proteins on the market.
Read our full Legion Whey+ Review.
Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+
This clean, transparent protein powder relies on organic, non-GMO yellow peas for its 20-gram protein dosage. Additionally, the subscription-based model helps ensure you’re always stocked up to help you meet your nutritional goals day in and day out.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.67
- Protein Source: Organic pea protein
- Protein Per Serving: 20g
- Calories Per Serving: 115
- Available Flavor: Vanilla
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
One of the best organic protein powders is also among our best weight loss protein powders. Ritual’s Essential Daily Shake 18+ offers 20 grams of organic pea protein per serving as well as a host of vitamins and minerals.
“I like the formula’s macro ratio, but I especially like that Ritual added L-methionine to make it a complete protein,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RD, rating the formula a 4.25 out of 5. “Methionine is an essential amino acid, meaning our bodies need it but can’t produce it, so it’s super convenient to get it in your protein powder.“
Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, said that this impressive protein powder was a nice addition to her routine, giving it a 4 out of 5 for taste. “Even just with water, I found this powder had a nice flavor to it. It’s not super plant-y or hemp-y like other plant-based proteins I’ve tried over the years.”
Additionally, Meier gave Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ a perfect 5 out of 5 for solubility, saying this shake had “shockingly” excellent consistency with a smooth texture.
We also appreciate this vegan protein powder for weight loss because of Ritual’s commitment to transparency. Every ingredient — such as the organic, non-GMO pea protein used in the formulation — can be traced back to its source with detailed information for every step of the processing journey. Plus, this powder is Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s free of any banned substances.
To enjoy the perks of heightened transparency, however, you’ll need to plan for some extra spending. We rate this vegan-friendly Ritual protein powder a 2 out of 5 for cost due to its $2.67 price per serving. Additionally, you’re only getting 15 servings per container, which is far lower than the typical 30 you’d receive with other protein powders.
Finally, we should mention that Ritual operates under a subscription-based model, meaning your initial purchase automatically signs you up for repeat orders down the road. This can be great if you’re fully committed to this protein powder for the long haul, but if you fancy a new supplement — or different flavor — every now and again, you could be in for some unwanted emails or phone calls to cancel your subscription.
Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
This whey isolate from Momentous offers 20 grams of protein with only 100 calories per serving. In addition to the protein, there's also 90mg of calcium and 115mg of potassium, as well as an enzyme blend to help aid digestion.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.70
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 22.27-23.4g
- Calories Per Serving: 90-100
- Available Flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
While protein powders for weight loss can be used by athletes of any gender, there are certain formulations that can benefit male or female athletes more so than others. (6) For men looking to boost their weight loss regimen with an effective protein shake, we recommend Momentous Whey Protein Isolate. We like this formulation for male athletes because of the key dosages of vital micronutrients, along with the hearty 22.27 to 23.4 grams of protein per serving.
“I love that Momentous collaborates with dietitians when formulating their products and I love love love that they link up-to-date research that backs their product’s ingredients,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, R.D., giving the formulation a 4.25 out of 5. “The use of Prohydrolase makes this product stand out. The research shows that Prohydrolase can increase amino acid concentrations in the post workout setting. Hello, muscle gain!”
The main micronutrient of note in Momentous Whey Protein Isolate is potassium. Each scoop can deliver between 110 and 260 milligrams, which is appealing to male athletes looking to reach the recommended 3,400 milligrams per day. (5) Potassium may be able to help prevent low muscle mass, among other benefits. (4)
During our trials, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, praised this Momentous offering for its rich, easy-to-drink makeup, giving the protein shake a 4 out of 5 for taste. “I tried the chocolate variety and found it to be very similar to rich cocoa, even when mixed with ice-cold water,” she said.
Additionally, we found Momentous Whey Protein Isolate to be fairly soluble, earning it 4.5 out of 5 for the category. We did notice some clumping with the unflavored variety at times, though. Also, some customer reviews have noted some stomach discomfort after consuming this powder. “The chocolate flavor is great, but the choice of sweetener is awful. Lots of bloat and gas problems,” said one customer.
While we do view this high-quality protein as a worthwhile pick for men embarking on a weight loss program, we understand that it’s not for every athlete. At $2.70 per serving, this is way beyond the average $1 to $1.75 price of protein. For this reason, we rate this Momentous pick at 1 out of 5 for cost.
Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate
Nutricost's Whey Protein Concentrate comes in five different flavors and packs 25 grams of protein per serving. This product is also available in two- and five-pound containers, making it easier to buy in bulk.
At less than 90 cents per serving, Nutricost’s Whey Protein Concentrate is well below the $1 to $2 average you tend to see for whey protein powders, let alone one made from grass-fed dairy. We also like this Nutricost profile as a budget offering since you can get it in either 2- or 5-pound containers, making it easier to buy in bulk. We scored its overall value a 5 out of 5.
But there’s more to like with this Nutricost offering beyond its low price point. For one, it’s both non-GMO and gluten-free. It’s also been third-party tested for banned substances, though our tester, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, wishes the testing had been performed by a major lab. According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, this formula earned a 3.5 out of 5 due to the sucralose used.
As for taste, Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate scored a 4 out of 5. “It’s not overly sweet, and I had no issues getting a shake down each and every day,” she said. “I also like that it had a bit of texture and wasn’t thin like a lot of other powders.” She even noted that the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor went down smooth with no aftertaste, despite her not being a fan of the flavor typically.
[Related: Best Supplements for Weight Loss]
She also found this powder easy to blend in milk or water — though she preferred milk — with no tangible clumps or unwanted residue. As such, she scored it a 5 out of 5 in terms of solubility.
Those prone to flavor fatigue may not like that Nutricost offers just five standard flavors. Also, a few of their offerings contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener. After taking it regularly for two weeks, Meier didn’t experience any side effects or GI distress, but you’ll want to consider your own sensitivities before scooping up a tub. “Protein supplements have a tendency to upset my partner’s stomach, but we had no issues with this one,” she added.
How We Tested the Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we drew upon our experiences testing 104 different protein powders from multiple brands, looking at each option as it related to weight loss over other goals. Take a look at our supplement testing methodology for more information.
- Formulation: What types of protein were used, as well as any other ingredients included. We gave high marks to products without artificial sweeteners and unnecessary additives.
- Dosages: How much protein is offered per serving? We favored products that deliver at least 20 grams of protein in each serving.
- Cost Per Serving: We took into account how expensive each product was, with most landing at or around $2 per serving.
- Taste and Flavor: While this is subjective, we did have several people test each protein powder to assess how good (or not) each product tasted. We also put a premium on having a wide variety of flavors available for our picks.
- Solubility: We mixed each protein in water and milk products, testing solubility with shaker cups and blender bottles.
- Calorie Distribution: Your powder’s calorie count is important, as this can make it easier to achieve and maintain a caloric deficit. (2) As such, we looked for protein powders that weren’t too dense — roughly 140 calories or less.
- Fitness Goals: If shedding a few pounds is your goal, you may prefer a leaner protein. We opted for formulas with as few unnecessary macros as possible to help keep calorie counts relatively low.
- Protein Source: As we picked different products, we tried to compile a list with varying protein sources. That way, we can serve readers with allergies or dietary restrictions/preferences.
Benefits of Protein Powders for Weight Loss
Like their effects when it comes to building lean muscle and boosting your strength in the gym, protein powders can be just as influential when it comes to slimming down, too. From keeping you full between meals, to facilitating more efficient caloric burn, to simply being a convenient option over less-than-ideal snacks, below are some of the perks that come with protein powders for weight loss.
- Increased Satiety: Protein can be great for athletes on a weight loss journey thanks to its satiating qualities. (1) This can do wonders for your weight loss journey, as there’s less room for cravings.
- Convenience: For busy folks, all you need is a shaker cup full of water and you’re a few shakes away from a hearty snack or meal replacement that supports higher fat oxidation. (8)
How Much Do Protein Powders for Weight Loss Cost?
Prices for protein powders can run the gambit, which can leave athletes questioning whether a more expensive supplement is truly worth its heightened cost. Thankfully, we’ve crunched the numbers for you during our trials, which you can find below.
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss Overall | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | $2 Per Serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Men | Momentous Whey Protein Isolate | $2.70 Per Serving |
| Best Vegan Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Gainful Plant-Based Protein | Up to $3 per serving |
| Best Tasting Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Onnit Whey Protein | $2 Per Serving |
| Best Protein Powder for Weight Loss for Women | Legion Whey+ | $1.46-$2 Per Serving |
| Best Casein Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Transparent Labs Casein Protein | $2 Per Serving |
| Best Whey Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Jacked Factory Authentic ISO | $0.93-$1.33 Per Serving |
| Best Organic Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Ritual Essential Daily Shake 18+ | $2.67 Per Serving |
| Best Budget Protein Powder for Weight Loss | Nutricost Whey Protein Concentrate | $0.98-$1.29 Per Serving |
What to Consider Before Buying Protein Powders for Weight Loss
When looking for a protein powder to aid you in your weight loss journey, you might want to consider a few things before completely revamping your supplement routine. Below are some of our recommended considerations when deciding on a proper protein powder for weight loss.
Protein Content
Protein content varies from powder to powder, but the average is around 20 grams per serving. Higher protein content is usually desirable for weight loss thanks to the potential to increase satiety. (1)(7) In general, powders with protein counts between 24 and 28 grams per dosage can be a good sweet spot to consider.
Calories Per Serving
One of the main ways to facilitate weight loss is by achieving and maintaining a caloric deficit. (2) We recommend opting for a protein powder delivering between 100 and 140 calories per serving. Additionally, we’ve found that protein powders with these caloric counts are sufficient to sustain satiety between whole meals. (1)
Available Flavors
If you’re using a protein powder as part of your weight loss journey, odds are you’ll be turning to this trusty shake day in and day out. As such, it’s important to opt for a protein supplement that showcases a pleasing flavor profile aligned to your wants and needs.
Price
Naturally, you want to go with a protein powder that fits into your budget as well as it does your diet plan. When thinking of your powder’s overall cost, it’s best to view the number in price per serving.
Best Protein for Weight Loss FAQs
What is the best protein powder for weight loss on the market?
We think Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a top pick thanks to its clean formulation free of any artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and colorings. Additionally, we appreciate the abundance of flavors to choose from, along with the powder’s exceptional solubility when mixed with your liquid of choice.
How much do protein powders for weight loss cost?
Prices for protein powders can vary from brand to brand, as well as how many servings you get in a singular container. For this reason, we recommend looking at the price per serving rather than the overall cost of the protein powder itself. On average, you can expect to find a high-quality protein powder for weight loss between $1 and $1.75 per dose. Naturally, there are cheaper and more expensive options out there, but this is the range we’ve found most common across the category.
If I’m intaking calories from protein powder, isn’t that going to make me gain weight instead of lose it?
In short, no. The main point of a successful weight loss regimen is maintaining a calorie deficit throughout the day, meaning you’re burning off more calories than you’re consuming. (2) Protein powders can help you achieve this metric more so than other foods, as their protein-rich makeup can help you increase satiety in-between meals while also improving thermogenesis, i.e. facilitating fat loss instead of muscle mass loss. (8)
References
- Moon J, Koh G. Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. J Obes Metab Syndr. 2020;29(3):166-173. doi:10.7570/jomes20028
- Kim, J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 30(1), 20–31.
- Boscaini S, Cabrera-Rubio R, Nychyk O, et al. Age- and duration-dependent effects of whey protein on high-fat diet-induced changes in body weight, lipid metabolism, and gut microbiota in mice. Physiol Rep. 2020;8(15):e14523. doi:10.14814/phy2.14523
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