Best protein powder for male weight loss

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Best protein powder for male weight loss

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Gundry MD Proplant Complete Shake

Best protein powder for male weight loss

  • A smooth, worry-free digestion
  • Greater control over unhealthy food cravings
  • 100% plant protein supports a healthy heart
  • A constant flow of "crash free" energy
  • Chocolate and vanilla flavors available

Best Protein Powders Of 2022


Orgain Organic Protein Powder

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Cost

$0.79

per ounce for the plant-based variety

Why We Picked It

Toby Amidor, a registered dietitian, food safety consultant and 2021 Forbes Health Advisory Board member, recommends this protein powder, saying it “has options for a variety of protein needs,” ranging from the average adult to athletes, as well as plant-based and whey protein varieties in a multitude of flavors.

Recommended by: Toby Amidor

Key Features

  • 21 grams of protein per serving (for the plant-based protein powder)
  • USDA certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, vegan and kosher (for the plant-based protein powder)
  • Plant-based protein powder flavors include chocolate caramel sea salt, peanut butter, vanilla horchata, chocolate coconut, chocolate, pumpkin spice and more

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein + Superfoods Powder

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

Melina Jampolis, M.D., an internist, board-certified physician nutrition specialist and 2021 Forbes Health Advisory Board member, specifically recommends this Orgain Organics option as a smart foundation for a meal replacement. She says the fat content (5 grams per serving) helps consumers feel satiated longer and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Additionally, “it’s a good source of many B vitamins, an excellent source of vitamin C and an excellent source of plant-based iron, which is important for women,” she adds.

Recommended by: Melina Jampolis

Key Features

  • 21 grams of protein per serving
  • USDA certified organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free and vegan
  • Superfoods blend includes organic vegetables, fruits, grasses and grains
  • Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors

Garden Of Life Sport Grass-Fed Whey

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

“I like this product because it has a clean ingredient list (no artificial colors, sweeteners or flavors), a healthy dose of 24 grams of protein in the form of mainly whey protein isolate, 2 grams of fiber, no added sugar and very little fat,” says Dr. Jampolis, adding that she also likes that it contains probiotics, which can help support digestive health.

Recommended by: Melina Jampolis

Key Features

  • 24 grams of grass-fed whey protein per serving
  • 6 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) per serving
  • NSF-certified sport, non-GMO, gluten-free and void of added sugars
  • Available in chocolate flavor

NorCal Organic Pea Protein

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

Jibrin praises the pea protein found in this product for its low impact on the environment, noting that peas have a self-fertilization mechanism that allows farmers to bypass commercial fertilizers and the potential pollution associated with them. This product is also free of additives, she says.

Recommended by: Janis Jibrin

Key Features

  • 22 grams of protein per serving
  • Organic yellow pea protein isolate
  • Gluten-free and soy-free
  • Just one allergen-free ingredient
  • Certified USDA organic

BiPro Bold Whey + Milk Protein Powder Isolate

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

“This product is free of natural or artificial sweeteners and other unnecessary—and potentially unhealthy—additives,” says Janis Jibrin, a registered dietitian, diet counselor, nutrition instructor and 2021 Forbes Health Advisory Board member. “It contains just whey protein isolate, milk protein isolate and sunflower lecithin—a natural emulsifier that helps the whey mix into liquids.”

Recommended by: Janis Jibrin

Key Features

  • 23 grams of protein per serving
  • 70% whey protein isolate, 30% milk protein isolate
  • Gluten-free and sugar-free
  • Doesn’t contain fillers or artificial flavors
  • Available in vanilla, chocolate, strawberries and creme and unflavored varieties

ZonePerfect Carb Wise Powder By Abbott Nutrition

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

Taylor Wallace, Ph.D., principal and CEO of the food science and nutrition research firm Think Healthy and a 2021 Forbes Health Advisory Board member, recommends this product for anyone with an active lifestyle who doesn’t take a daily multivitamin. “One serving provides moderate—but not excessive—amounts of many essential vitamins and minerals,” he says, highlighting the 350 milligrams of calcium, which helps build strong bones.

Recommended by: Taylor Wallace

Key Features

  • 30 grams of protein per serving
  • Whey protein concentrate and milk protein isolate
  • Gluten-free, soy-free and void of added sugar
  • Available in chocolate ice cream and fruity cereal flavors

Opportuniteas Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

“This product is free of natural or artificial sweeteners and other unnecessary (and potentially unhealthy) additives,” says Jibrin. “It contains just whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin, which is a natural emulsifier that helps the whey mix into liquids.”

Recommended by: Janis Jibrin

Key Features

  • 28 grams of grass-fed protein per serving
  • Pure whey protein isolate sourced from milk of grass-fed, hormone-free cows
  • Gluten-free and non-GMO
  • Unflavored for easier mixing into other foods and recipes

Puori PW1 Bourbon Vanilla

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

For anyone looking for a flavored protein powder, Jibrin recommends Puori PW1. “Unlike most that contain artificial sweeteners and flavors, this powder is sweetened with just a little coconut sugar and vanilla beans,” she says.

Recommended by: Janis Jibrin

Key Features

  • 21 grams of protein per serving
  • Only five natural ingredients
  • Recipient of the Clean Label Project Purity Award, which ensures products are not contaminated with heavy metals
  • Available in dark chocolate and bourbon vanilla flavors

NOW Whey Protein Powder

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

This particular product is a good fit for athletes—it’s Informed Sport certified to ensure the absence of substances prohibited in sports. Additionally, “whey protein powder is optimally absorbed and perfect to use post-workout,” says Amidor. “It can be easily added to smoothies, smoothie bowls or into batters or even ice pops.”

Recommended by: Toby Amidor

Key Features

  • 26 grams of protein per serving
  • Contains added glutamine blend
  • Available in chocolate, creamy vanilla and unflavored

Trader Joe’s Organic Hemp Protein Powder

Best protein powder for male weight loss

All costs are sourced from Amazon and are accurate as of publication date.

Why We Picked It

Hemp has significantly less protein than whey, explains Jibrin, but it’s beneficial when incorporated into a diet that includes other protein sources. “Hemp offers nutrition perks not found in other types of protein powder,” says Jibrin, noting its substantial fiber and unsaturated fatty acids content.

Recommended by: Janis Jibrin

Key Features

  • 8 grams of protein per serving
  • 500 milligrams of omega-3s per serving
  • Soy-free
  • Available in vanilla flavor

Best Protein Powders Ratings


*Dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and ingredients and their amounts may vary. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.

Meet Our Panelists

Our Best Protein Powders of 2022 ranking is determined by a Forbes Health panel of experts. They provided their product recommendations, along with reasons they stand out.

You May Also Be Interested In Proteins From Our Featured Partner

Best protein powder for male weight loss

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+

Protein Per Serving

20 grams of plant-based protein

Features

Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Major Allergen Free, Vegan Friendly

Best protein powder for male weight loss

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 50+

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Best protein powder for male weight loss

Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum

Protein Per Serving

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What Does Protein Powder Do?

Protein powders are dietary supplements designed to increase your intake of protein. Once marketed primarily to athletes as a way to build muscle and aid in post-workout recovery, these products have garnered appeal with a wider consumer audience in recent years.

Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in human health—it helps build and repair muscle tissue, and it can provide energy, too. Dietary protein can come from plant or animal sources, such as meat, seafood, legumes, nuts and seeds. However, many people turn to protein powders for a convenient and concentrated dose of protein, often after exercising. While a serving of 100 grams of black beans contains 24 grams of protein, a couple scoops of protein powder can provide nearly 30 grams of protein.

Many protein powders contain other nutrients, too, such as added vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids or fiber, and can often be mixed with milk or water to make a shake or smoothie.


Types of Protein Powders

Sources of protein found in most protein powders can be divided into two categories: animal-based and plant-based.

Animal-based protein powders are often made of either whey or casein. Whey comes from the translucent liquid part of milk while casein comes from the top solid portion of milk. Both contain all nine essential amino acids. Other animal-based protein powders are made with egg white protein.

If you opt for a whey protein, consider the form you want to use. In addition to whole protein powder, options include:

  • Whey protein concentrate, which removes the protein from other materials like water and other minerals
  • Whey protein isolate, which is the purest protein source available, removing the protein from all fat and lactose
  • Whey protein hydrolysate, which is often considered a “predigested” form of protein

Meanwhile, plant-based protein powders typically include proteins from soy, peas, hemp, rice, chia seeds and/or pumpkin seeds.


Protein Powder Benefits

Adequate protein intake—about 50 grams a day for people eating a 2,000 calorie daily diet—provides energy for your body and supports healthy growth, immune function and eyesight, among other essential processes. To aid training, athletes may need twice as much protein as individuals with a less active lifestyle.

When trying to meet these nutritional needs, protein powder can be beneficial, especially for on-the-go moments, according to Kelly E. Powers, a registered dietitian in San Francisco. “Several protein powders have added vitamins and minerals, making them nutrition insurance,” she says. Aside from the convenience factor, research suggests protein powders may also offer the following benefits[1]Karlund A, Gomez-Gallego C, Turpeinen A, et al. Protein Supplements and Their Relation with Nutrition, Microbiota Composition and Health: Is More Protein Always Better for Sportspeople?. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):829. [2]Pasiakos S, McLellan T, Lieberman H. The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review. Sports Medicine. 2015 Jan;45(1):111-31. :

  • Healthy weight loss support
  • Reduced risk of obesity
  • Sore muscle relief for training athletes
  • Muscle fatigue relief for training athletes
  • Enhanced muscle mass and performance for training athletes

But Cara Harbstreet, a registered dietitian working in sport nutrition in Kansas City, Kansas, cautions against overly relying on protein powders, issuing a reminder that the best way to achieve proper protein intake is by eating whole foods.


How to Choose a Protein Powder

When choosing a protein powder, Harbstreet recommends paying particular attention to the product’s certification(s). There are no standards for labeling, she says, so seeking an item tested by a third party may offer peace of mind and make for a safer, healthier product.

“To me, this is the best indication of high quality and lower/limited contamination or ‘filler’ products,” says Harbstreet. “It’s a red flag for me if a brand uses a term like ‘proprietary blend’ without detailing what it contains. That’s a safety concern for things like heavy metals, botanicals and other ingredients that could potentially interact with other foods or medications.”

Whether you choose a plant-based or animal-based protein source is a matter of personal preference, she adds.

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What Risks Are Associated With Protein Powders?

“For most people, there’s 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, [protein powders] 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 metals[3]Bandara 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 function[4]Vasconcelos QDJS, Bachur TPR, Aragão GF. Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2021;46(1):27-33. . Experts also note that the additional calories from protein powders can add up quickly, potentially leading to weight gain.

“Another consideration for collegiate and elite athletes is the potential for banned substances in protein powders or other supplements,” says Harbstreet. “This can pose a risk to eligibility if an athlete is subjected to drug testing.”

If you’re considering adding a protein powder to your daily routine, ask your physician or a registered dietitian for help in determining the best and healthiest option for you.


Our Methodology

To determine the best protein powders of 2022, the Forbes Health editorial team consulted a panel of four accredited nutrition experts who provided their product recommendations. Star ratings were then determined solely by the editorial team, factoring in cost, protein per serving and user satisfaction.


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Sources

Footnotes

  • Karlund A, Gomez-Gallego C, Turpeinen A, et al. Protein Supplements and Their Relation with Nutrition, Microbiota Composition and Health: Is More Protein Always Better for Sportspeople?. Nutrients. 2019;11(4):829.
  • Pasiakos S, McLellan T, Lieberman H. The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review. Sports Medicine. 2015 Jan;45(1):111-31.
  • Bandara 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.
  • Vasconcelos QDJS, Bachur TPR, Aragão GF. Whey protein supplementation and its potentially adverse effects on health: a systematic review. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2021;46(1):27-33.

References

  • Hoffman J, Falvo M. Protein—Which Is Best?. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. 2004 Sep;3(3):118–130.
  • Interactive Nutrition Facts Label—Protein. Food and Drug Administration. Accessed 9/13/2021.
  • Delimaris I. Adverse Effects Associated with Protein Intake above the Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults. ISRN Nutrition. 2013.
  • Protein Powder. Colorado School of Public Health. Accessed 09/28/2021.
  • A Primer on Protein Powders. International Food Information Council. Accessed 09/28/2021.

Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.

Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.

Best protein powder for male weight loss

Lizzie Duszynski-Goodman is a journalist living in the Midwest with her husband and two young children. Her work explores the intersection of mental health, wellness and parenting. She is the former managing editor of Pregnancy Magazine. When not behind her computer, you can find her on a yoga mat or with her nose in a good book.

Best protein powder for male weight loss

Sarah is an experienced writer and editor enthusiastic about helping readers live their healthiest and happiest lives. Before joining Forbes Health, Sarah worked as a writer for various digital publications including LendingTree, theSkimm, CNBC and Bankrate. When she isn’t writing or editing, you can find Sarah with her nose in a book or enjoying the outdoors with her French bulldog, Honey.

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What protein powder is best for weight loss for men?

Our picks of the best protein powders for weight loss.
Best overall: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey..
Best for men: Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder..
Best for women: Naked Whey..
Best for competitive athletes: Muscle Milk 100% Whey..
Best meal-replacement protein powder: GNC Lean Shake 25..

What kind of protein powder is best for weight loss?

Whey protein is the most popular type of protein powder and for good reason. It's packed with nutrients and has been shown to help with weight loss. Casein protein is another good option for those looking to lose weight. Like whey, it's rich in nutrients and has been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat burning.