WHEN WE TALK about fitness and diet, we often land on protein. And for good reason, as the macronutrient carries immense health benefits.
Protein builds muscle and maintains muscle, gives a boost in the hormone and brain chemical-building departments, and can help with weight loss.
Protein also raises your metabolism more than most nutrients as it is digested. That means it can power you through the day, that workout, that pickup game―whatever physical activity you're up to.
How can you get it? Well, protein-rich foods include things like meat, fish, eggs, yogurt, nuts, and soy products. But you can also consume it in bars and in powder form, our focus here. Ahead are a few protein powders to consider.
Best Whey Protein Powders | Best-Tasting Protein Powders | Best Pea Protein Powders | Best Vegan Protein Powders | Best Protein Powders
This version is unflavored, so consider it a blank canvas you can play around with. Doctor is up with fruits, veggies, and some sweetener. Whey is a good option as it has a high amino acid content, which can both build and preserve muscle mass. This protein is also Informed Sport Certified.
An almond-based powder, this one from beloved Rob's Red Mill boasts 20 grams of protein per serving. It's full of calcium and fiber and tastes great on its own or mixed into smoothies, peanut butter, or baked goods.
If you're looking for a great-tasting vegan protein, this is it. The Four Sigmatic option is well-reviewed and pulls its power from a variety of natural sources, including mushrooms.
For the DIY protein-seeker, this is an excellent way to go. Gainful personalizes your nutrition based on your taste, ensuring that you'll get a protein source that you look forward to taking every day.
Sometimes, you just don't have the time to mix your own smoothie. Enter Koia Protein Smoothies, which taste fantastic and are ready to drink. They pack 18 grams of protein a piece and are made from plant-based sources, coming in intriguing flavors like chocolate banana.
How much protein should you eat for weight loss?
The exact amounts depend on weight-loss goals and how active you are, but there's a general formula. Roughly 1 gram of protein per pound of target body weight is the going rate. That translates to 175 grams a day for a 175-pound male.
That's a lot of steak. Because the figure can be hard to reach with just food, supplements like powder can come into play. Mix it up with your favorite yogurt and fruit combo for a good, protein-rich smoothie.
What's the best protein powder for weight loss?
There are a few key factors to consider:
- Based on preference and diet, you'll want to choose between dairy-based, vegetarian, vegan, and in some cases ready-to-drink powdered protein forms. Check out the serving figures and make sure it's third-party certified.
- Avoid excess sugar. You're essentially hunting for a meal here, not a sports drink. Powders ought to have 3 grams of sugar or fewer per serving. You can always sweeten your mix with something like fruit, agave syrup, or honey.
- We suggest adding a milk for additional protein. Cow's milk and plant-based milk are great options.
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Paul is the Food & Nutrition Editor of Men’s Health. He’s also the author of two cookbooks: Guy Gourmet and A Man, A Pan, A Plan.