My 8 Favorite Protein Powders for Women

cow-proteinList of My Fav Protein Powders

Whey comes from cow’s milk and is shown to be more effective in stimulating muscle protein synthesis than others.  It’s affordable, and in my opinion tastes the best.  I recommend whey protein unless a client has some reason not to use it. What NOT to have in your protein powders.

PROTEIN POWDERS I LIKE – most likely found on the Web

(in order of preference)

  1. Philosophie Raw Whey Protein
  2. Warrior Blend Raw Protein Powder in Vanilla
  3. Garden of Life
  4. SFH Pure Whey
  5. Jarrow Formulas Organic Whey Protein
  6. Tera’s Whey Organic Protein
  7.  Source Organic Grass-Fed Whey Protein Concentrate
  8. Now Foods Whey Protein Isolate

PROTEIN POWDERS I LIKE – easily found in the ‘grocery Stores’

  1. Pure Protein Whey Powder
  2. Garden of Life
  3. yup…only 2 so far

I should mention that even if you’re not lactose intolerant, you can be allergic to the actual proteins found in cow milk. This is why some people don’t do well with highly refined forms of whey, such as whey isolate or whey hydrolysate, which have virtually all lactose removed.  In these cases try another form of powdered protein:

  1. Egg White Protein
  2. Pea Protein
  3. Hemp Protein

Egg White Protein

Egg white protein is just what it sounds like: Dried whites that have been turned into a powder. This protein digests slower than whey but faster than casein. Although not quite as good as whey or casein in terms of muscle protein synthesis, it’s still a good option in a post-workout or meal-replacement smoothie.
Choose this if: You’re allergic to or don’t eat dairy (e.g. Paleo dieters), but still want a high-quality complete protein.
What type: Your only option is “egg white powder,” sometimes called “egg white albumen.” If you eat organic or cage-free eggs as part of yourdiet, you should look for the same in a powder. This may be hard to find, however, so consider opting for organic pasteurized liquid egg whites as an alternative.

Pea Protein

Pea protein, derived from the yellow pea, is the most highly digestible of the plant proteins, making it a good alternative for anyone with a sensitive stomach who doesn’t want to do dairy or soy. But it’s not a complete protein—it’s low in 2 amino acids—so pair it with another plant-based protein such as hemp or rice to round out its amino acid profile and make it “complete.”
Choose this if: You avoid animal-derived products, but don’t want to eat soy, or if you have digestive issues.
What type: If you want higher protein content, choose a “pea proteinisolate.” The slightly lower-protein “pea protein powder” is also a good choice, and readily available in organic varieties.

Hemp protein

This is made from nutrient-packed hemp seeds, and while it’s not the best for boosting muscle because of its lower protein content (most contain just 10 to 15 grams per scoop, depending on the brand, compared to about 25 grams in whey and 22 grams in soy) and PDCAA score, it does provide a good dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with rice or pea protein to round out its amino-acid profile and make it complete.
Choose this if: You want to ramp up your overall nutrient intake and don’t have strong protein needs.
What type: Most brands will feature “hemp protein,” which retains hemp’s healthy fiber and fats; but some newer options feature “hemp protein concentrate,” which will be higher in protein, but stripped of those other nutrients.

Casein Protein

Casein, the main protein in milk, is absorbed more slowly than whey, so it’s not quite as efficient at building muscle. But it can leave you feeling fuller longer, which makes it a great addition to meal-replacement smoothies or your morning oatmeal. Casein has also been found to enhance muscle building when blended with whey in a post-workout shake, such as these 10 smoothie recipes.
Choose this if: You generally use protein powder as a meal replacement or before bed, or if you want to combine it with whey for optimal muscle-building effects.
What to look for: Opt for micellar casein, the slowest-digesting casein. Like with whey, choose casein made with organic, grass-fed dairy if possible; or free of growth hormones.

Whey Protein: 

Whey, derived from cow’s milk, leads the herd as the best protein source.  It’s called a “complete” protein, meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids—the ones your body can’t make on its own. Whey enters your blood stream faster than any other protein.  It boasts the highest level of the amino acid leucine, good for providing muscles with the necessary fuel to power through a workout and build muscle. Aim to consume it within 30 minutesto an hour after exercise.
Simply Increase Protein: You simply want the best powder to increase, build or maintain muscle.
A Cleaner Whey – You have a couple choices: If maximum protein is what you’re after, choose a whey protein isolate or whey hydrolysate—these are higher protein (90%) (taste a little chalky) and contain a bit less fat, carbs, and lactose. If a super clean product with slightly less protein is more your taste, opt for a concentrate (80%)—these are readily available in organic, grass-fed varieties which contain no trace hormones, pesticides, or grain feed byproducts.

More To Explore