How to Choose the Best Protein Powder, According to Nutritionists

The best protein powders can play a significant role in healthy aging-particularly for women. “Most women significantly under-consume protein, which contributes to muscle loss, a slowing metabolism, and worsening insulin resistance with age,” says Amie Hornaman, DCN , a functional medicine practitioner who specializes in thyroid health, women’s hormones, and metabolic optimization. “Protein provides the raw materials needed to build and repair muscle tissue.” Vogue ’s Favorite Protein Powders Of course, not all protein powders are created equal, and the amount of protein they pack per serving is just one thing to keep in mind. “When it comes to choosing a protein powder, there are two main things for women to consider: The quality of the protein source, and your main goals-for instance, adding muscle, meeting protein needs, hair growth, gut health, and fertility,” says Brigitte Zeitlin , registered dietitian and founder of BZ Nutrition. Ahead, pros weigh in on which protein powders are worth adding to your supplement regime-from vegan formulas to versions with grass-fed beef and a few that flat-out taste like milkshakes. In This Story What is protein powder? What to Look for in a Protein Powder Which is the best type of protein powder for women? Does protein source matter when choosing a protein powder? How much protein should you eat per day? How to Consume Protein Powder Is protein powder actually good for you? Who Should Take Protein Powder What are the potential harms of protein powder? How We Tested Meet the Experts Best Organic: Ritual Essential Protein Why We Love It: Looking for a quick fix of organic protein? Made with regeneratively-farmed ingredients, Ritual’s Essential Protein powder packs 20 grams of plant protein and zero grams of sugar per serving. It also boosts brain function with tartaric acid. “I like Ritual for those who can’t tolerate dairy because it’s made from pea protein and it’s easily digestible,” says wellness expert and certified pilates instructor Lia Bartha . “I also love the ingredient transparency Ritual promotes. If you’re going to take a powder, you have to know what’s in it.” The protein powder has no artificial sweeteners-instead, it leans on monkfruit for a naturally sweet taste. Protein Source: Organic yellow peas Protein Per Serving : 20g Ingredients: Organic pea protein, natural flavor, MCT oil Flavor: Vanilla Size : 1.0 lb Additional Considerations: Plant-based, no artificial sweeteners, Clean Label Project Certified, Non-GMO, Made Traceable Love It Leave It Traceable sourcing, minimal ingredients, vegan-friendly Only comes in one flavor, may taste slightly grainy without going in a blender Best for a Sensitive Stomach: Ora Plant-Based Superfood Protein Why We Love It: Easy on sensitive stomachs, Ora’s plant-based protein powder is made without gums or fillers. It’s also infused with digestive enzymes-including amylase and lactase-that stave off bloating. Plus, it has a combination of 19 superfoods rich in micronutrients and amino acids. The brand’s signature Protein, Superfood, and Greens Blend includes ingredients such as organic sprouted quinoa, blackberry, kale, and Jerusalem artichoke. The protein shake has a mild,...

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