Best Protein Powder for Women: Top 5 Products Reviewed

By John E., Originated Media

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If you’re not already taking protein powder, you probably know someone who is. A lot of women swear by it. People use protein powder for a variety of reasons. Some are working to add muscle mass, facilitate their workouts, or recover from exercise. Others may be attempting to lose weight by substituting protein for less healthy food. Others, particularly those who are vegetarian or vegan, might simply need to supplement the protein in their diet.

Finding the best protein powder for women may help achieve these goals. Protein powders offer a convenient way to take in a little more protein when you need it most. The marketplace has responded to this rising demand, and there are now hundreds of products available.

We’re here to help demystify the often confusing world of these popular supplements. Read on for a summary of protein powders, how they differ, and some answers to the most common questions women have about them. Also, we’ve chosen five of the best protein powders for women that are effective, tasty, and worth examining further.

Summary of Best Protein Powders for Women

  1. Best Overall Protein Powder: BIOptimizers Protein Breakthrough
  2. Best Whey Protein Powder: Shifted Whey Protein Isolate
  3. Best Sustainably Sourced Protein Powder: LYFEfuel Essentials Shake
  4. Best Nutritionally Complete Protein Powder: Transformation Total Body Protein
  5. Best Plant-Based Protein Powder: Organifi Protein

Best Protein Powders for Women

1. Best Overall Protein Powder: BIOptimizers Protein Breakthrough

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BIOptimizers Protein Breakthrough is a vegan, low-carb, low-glycemic, soy-free, gluten-free product. Each serving is nutritionally dense and contains pea powder, hemp seed, pumpkin seed, and insoluble fiber. That fiber helps you feel full for an extended time and promotes a healthy microbiome in your gut.

BIOptimizers has carefully blended multiple plant protein sources to create products such as their Chocolate Bliss, which tastes great and offers a smooth texture.

Pros

  • Chocolate Bliss flavor is 97.375% organic
  • Plant-based and vegan 
  • Formulas designed to blend health benefits and taste
  • Insoluble fiber promotes gut health and digestive regularity

Cons

  • Some consumers find the product too sweet

Size

Two-pound bottle.

Ingredients

Plant Protein Blend (Organic Pea Protein, Organic Hemp Protein, Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein), Organic Cocoa Powder, Organic Erythritol, Organic Lucuma Powder, Organic Mesquite Powder, Sunflower Lecithin, Organic Coconut Palm Sugar, Organic Maca Root Powder, Organic Luo Han Guo (Monk Fruit), Himalayan Salt, Organic Vanilla Flavor, Organic Stevia Leaf Extract, Coconut.

Discounts & Subscriptions

Subscribe and save discounts available 

Learn more about BIOptimizers Protein Breakthrough today!

2. Best Whey Protein Powder: Shifted Whey Protein Isolate

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Whey protein is a complete protein that encourages muscle growth and promotes antioxidant defense. Shifted Whey is a whey protein isolate. An isolate is more vigorously processed than whey protein concentrate. It’s separated from the casein to lower the fat and lactose content. Whey protein is one of the most effective proteins at helping you feel full for a longer period.

Shifted Whey Protein Isolate is naturally sweetened with monk fruit and Stevia, minimizing fat and carb intake relative to the muscle-building whey protein.

Pros

  • No need to add anything but water for a great taste 
  • Comes in convenient individual packets
  • Provides a quick whey protein boost in an easy-to-digest powder
  • Low in carbohydrates and fats 

Cons

  • May cause intestinal distress in women with lactose sensitivity

Size

Individual packets in boxes of 10, 20, 30, 60 or 120.

Ingredients

100 percent flavored whey protein isolate with 25 grams of protein and 12 grams of essential amino acids.

Discounts

Discounts are often offered available on the website.

Learn more about Shifted Whey Protein Isolate today!

3. Best Sustainably Sourced Protein Powder: LYFEfuel Essentials Shake

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LYFEuel Essentials Shake is more than just a protein powder; it can also replace your multivitamin and any greens supplement you might use. It’s sustainably sourced from real whole foods that are dried to remove water without compromising the nutritional content. There’s a veritable farmer’s market of fruits and vegetables in every serving.

In 60 seconds, you can whip up a breakfast replacement or between-meal snack that boosts energy and reduces cravings. The concentrated nutrients target your body’s needs, whether you’re prepping for a workout, controlling your appetite and food intake, or just keeping your protein level up to handle a stressful day.

Pros

  • Sustainably sourced from natural fruits and vegetables
  • Includes added vitamins and minerals 
  • Nutrient-dense formula  
  • Website offers recipes for treats such as cookies, smoothies, and breakfast bowls

Cons

  • Some consumers prefer non-vitamin-enriched protein powder 

Size

Comes in a bag that holds 24 servings.

Ingredients

Over 50 whole food nutrients and superfoods, 27 vitamins and minerals, and 18 grams of plant-based protein. Full spectrum multivitamins and probiotics.

Subscriptions and Discounts

Subscribers receive discounts and free shipping. There’s a money-back “happiness guarantee.”

Learn more about LYFEfuel Essentials Shake today!

4. Best Nutritionally Complete Protein Powder: Transformation Total Body Protein

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Transformation Total Body Protein leaves nothing out in providing a supplement loaded with health-giving ingredients. There are both egg-based and plant-based proteins in addition to superfood extras such as MCT oil, sunfiber, and probiotics. It’s a total package for lean muscle growth and healthy fat metabolism. Many customer testimonials report loss of body fat with a Transformation routine.

This protein powder contains prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and fiber, so you’ll feel full and satisfied while your metabolism keeps humming. It is available in two tasty flavors: Vanilla Ice Cream and Chocolate Lava Cake.

Pros

  • Multi-source protein from both egg whites and plants
  • No dairy, gluten, or artificial sweeteners
  • Complete nutrition package with MCT oil, sunfiber, probiotics, and protein

Cons

  • Some people may not want the added ingredients or prefer to get them separately

Size

A two-pound bag contains 18 servings.

Ingredients

Egg white protein, hydrolyzed collagen, pea protein isolate, pumpkin seed protein, coconut MCT oil, fiber, probiotics, natural flavors, allulose, stevia, monkfruit, digestive enzymes.

Discounts and Subscriptions

Subscribers enjoy discounts. The company also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Learn more about Transformation Total Body Protein today!

5. Best Plant-Based Protein Powder: Organifi Protein

Organifi Protein Powder is a plant-based, organic, soy-free shake made from pea protein, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and flax seed. Starting your day with breakfast protein shakes can help keep you full and free from food cravings throughout the day.

Organifi takes testing seriously. They go to the effort and expense of testing more than once before the product leaves their facility. Plant-based protein and other organic foods have been thoughtfully blended to produce a powder that tastes great and is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and protein.

Pros

  • Thorough testing to ensure consumer safety
  • Plant-based and organic with no soy protein or whey protein
  • Flavors derived from peas, pumpkin seeds, and other natural ingredients
  • Vanilla and chocolate flavors are available

Cons

  • Some people found the odor off-putting

Size

A 2 ½ pound bag contains a month’s supply of servings. Each serving contains 18g of protein and whole-food vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

The protein blend includes pea protein, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and flax seed. The digestive blend contains additional ingredients like coconut milk, lemon peel extract, and more; please refer to the company’s website for complete details.

Discounts and Subscriptions

Discounts are available with ongoing monthly purchases.

About Protein Powder

All foods contain carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Some women adhere to low-fat or low-carbohydrate diets, but no one will ever do well on a low-protein diet. Proteins are essential for muscle protein synthesis and help muscles recover after a vigorous workout. They are also a building block for skin and bone health and a necessity for producing hormones and enzymes.

Furthermore, a diet low in protein is likely to be too high in fats and carbohydrates, which can lead to unwanted weight gain and other unhealthy long-term consequences.

Protein powder is a protein concentrate derived from either plant or animal sources. Plant-based protein powders are made by grinding plants into flour, separating the protein from the fiber and starch with water, and then purifying and drying the protein liquid. Animal-based powders are often made from animal products, dairy products, or eggs by filtering to concentrate the protein and then drying.

Why Women Use Protein Powder

There are many benefits from protein powder, so there’s no one exclusive reason that its use has become widespread. Here are some of the most common incentives for incorporating these powders into your daily routine:

  • Muscle growth. Resistance exercise is the number one recommendation for women looking to increase muscle size and strength. However, there’s evidence that resistance training combined with protein supplements is more effective than strength training alone. You don’t have to be an aggressive weightlifter to enjoy the benefit. Only some women aspire to be bodybuilders, others will be happy with a moderate increase in strength and muscle tone.
  • Muscle recovery. A consistent workout routine can build muscle, but individual workouts can leave muscles sore and damaged. Protein powder can speed recovery and set you up for your next session.
  • Age-related muscle loss. For most people, peak muscularity happens in their mid to late 30s. By late middle age, muscle loss accelerates. As we age, this deterioration occurs sooner in women than in men. Resistance training combined with a protein supplement can help you retain as much muscle as possible as you mature.
  • Weight control. Protein powders and foods rich in protein make people feel fuller for longer periods and reduce the desire for snacks with unhealthy calories. Some women substitute protein powder for a meal or part of a meal for a better balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. This improved nutritional balance can help a woman maintain a healthy weight or even lose weight if desired.
  • Nutritional supplement. Some women struggle to eat enough beef, chicken, and dairy to meet their essential protein requirements. Others choose not to consume animal proteins and it can be challenging to incorporate the proper vegetarian or vegan foods that include all nine essential amino acids. (The nine essential amino acids are those that the body cannot produce itself but must be consumed as part of one’s diet.) The best protein powders provide all the protein and amino acids a healthy body needs.

Types of Protein Powder

Protein powders are made from animal sources, plant sources, or both.

Animal-Based Protein Powder

  • Whey protein powder. Whey is the liquid that separates from milk when cheese or yogurt is made. Concentrated whey protein powder is a complete protein. That means whey protein contains all the essential amino acids. For people who tolerate lactose, the body absorbs whey protein powder quickly and easily.
  • Casein protein powder. This dairy derivative is made from skim milk after the whey is removed. The remaining curds are washed, dried, and powdered. It’s similar to whey protein powder but tends to be slower-acting. Like whey protein powder, it should not be used by those with dairy allergies.
  • Egg-based powder. This powder is made from egg whites. They’re filtered, heated to destroy bacteria, and dried to create a powder. Like dairy powders, they contain all essential amino acids. They are unsuitable for those with egg allergies.
  • Collagen protein powder. This is made from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals, heated and broken down for easy absorption. It’s the body’s primary protein and supports healthy bones, skin, nails, and joints.

Plant-Based Protein Powders

Most plant-based protein powders are vegan protein powders that contain a combination of these and other sources:

  • Soy protein. Soy protein powder is the most nutritionally complete plant-based protein powder. Soy protein is known to cause digestive distress in some people.
  • Pea. Pea protein is rich in iron and a good source of several essential amino acids, but it has only small quantities of at least one of them.
  • Hemp seed. Hemp powder is rich in minerals and anti-oxidants and is easy to digest.
  • Flax seed. Flax seed is nutritionally rich but may cause digestive distress in a few people.
  • Pumpkin seed. Pumpkin seed is not a complete protein in and of itself but is used in combination with other sources, often to enhance flavor.
  • Brown rice protein. It has all the vitamins and minerals of rice and may support immune function.

Is Protein Powder Safe?

In general, protein powder from a reputable manufacturer is safe when taken according to recommendations. That doesn’t mean, however, that you should consume any powder you pick off a shelf or order online without taking some time to understand the potential drawbacks. Nor should you assume that because some quantity of protein powder is good, more will be better.

It’s important to understand that protein powder manufacture and sale is largely unregulated. The FDA considers it a supplement rather than a food. FDA approval is required only when a product contains a new ingredient. The manufacturer is responsible for the safety of its product, so a protein powder is as safe as the integrity and reliability of the company that produces it.

All and all, the risk with major manufacturers is small. Safety is further enhanced if the product undergoes independent testing.

Products from less-than-scrupulous manufacturers may not always contain the ingredients required for an effective protein supplement. Furthermore, powders that are not carefully and honestly manufactured may contain harmful substances such as microbiological agents, toxins, foreign objects, and even prescription-only drugs. There have been cases of athletes failing doping tests after taking questionable protein powders.

Some protein powders have excessive amounts of added sugar or artificial sweeteners. High-calorie powders, such as those with 200 calories or more per serving, are usually loaded with more sugar than is healthy. While this may not be harmful in the short run, highly sugared powders will work against women who are taking them to improve their dietary balance.

Even healthy powders can be unsafe if consumed in excess. Women who are working out or doing strength training may need a little more protein than the recommended daily allowance, but they should not exceed one gram of protein per pound of body weight in 24 hours. This includes intake from food as well as supplements. Excessive protein consumption can lead to dehydration, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and intestinal distress. Excess consumption over an extended period puts kidneys at risk.

The bottom line is this: mindful, conscientious use of protein powders poses so little risk that you can generally consider it safe. Read the labels, check out the manufacturer’s reputation, and don’t take more than what’s recommended.

How We Picked the Best Protein Powder

We considered several factors when selecting these protein powders. We made a point of including products that incorporated different categories of protein powders. For instance, we picked plant-based powders, animal-based powders, and mixed-source powders. And, we evaluated some that have extra ingredients in addition to protein powder.

Here are some of the criteria we considered and questions we asked:

  • What is the protein source or sources?
  • How quickly is the powder absorbed into the body?
  • How successful is the product at making you feel full or satiated?
  • How dense is the powder? In other words, how much nutrition is in one serving?
  • How does the product taste and smell?
  • What flavors are available?
  • How convenient is it to use? Is the powder clumpy or hard to dissolve?
  • Are the materials organically sourced?
  • What is the reputation of the manufacturer?
  • Does the manufacturer conduct adequate testing?
  • Is the product a complete protein? That is, does it include all the essential amino acids?
  • Is there added sugar or sweetener?
  • Does the product have ingredients that are allergens for some people?

In addition, we considered the opinions of people like you who sampled the protein powder and expressed their thoughts.

How To Find the Right Protein Powder for You

Not all of the best protein powders are ideal for all women. Your best choice depends on your dietary preferences, allergies, and your optimal health and fitness goals. That is, what do you want your protein powder to accomplish?

First, you should consider the efficacy of the ingredients. Animal-based proteins have different advantages and disadvantages from plant-based protein sources. Even within those categories, there are some differences:

  • Whey protein powder is one of the most widely used. People who are not vegans often prefer whey protein for everyday use. It’s fast-acting and easily digested by the lactose-tolerant. Whey protein is frequently favored for use immediately before and after workouts.
  • Casein protein is a dairy product like whey protein with associated advantages and disadvantages. However, it tends to be slower-acting than whey protein.
  • Egg protein, made from egg whites, is released more slowly than whey protein.
  • Soy protein is widely used, and there is evidence that it reduces cholesterol and decreases the severity of menopause symptoms. It may also build bone mass and help counter osteoporosis.
  • Other plant-based proteins tend to be easily digestible. Some are not nutritionally complete because they don’t contain sufficient quantities of all essential amino acids. Plant-based powders are often combined to enhance flavor and ensure protein completeness.

Next, consider what you’re asking your protein powder to do for you. If you want to build muscle, you might be best served by a protein powder that is easily and quickly absorbed. Whey protein, and especially whey protein isolates, fit this description.

For weight loss, every type of powder can provide the protein required to balance your diet and reduce your consumption of carbohydrates and fats. Be careful to choose one without added sugars or sweeteners made from starch, such as dextrins and maltodextrins. Also, watch the label for added branched-chain amino acids, which may promote more muscle growth and weight gain than you want.

If you have allergies such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity, read labels carefully to ensure that you don’t choose a protein powder that will cause a reaction.

Vegans, of course, will want to avoid dairy-based and egg-based products.

Consider whether you want additives such as multivitamins. Many products contain extras that make their offering a more complete nutritional package. This type of protein powder is not inherently better or worse than the unenhanced products. Some women like the “one-stop” convenience, while others prefer to keep different nutritional supplements separate.

Additionally, there’s the highly individual matter of taste. Flavors range from vanilla bean ice cream to strawberry to chocolate peanut butter; different tastes appeal to different women. Other considerations include smell, color, texture (such as lumpiness), and ease of mixing.

When it comes down to a close decision, the convenience of packaging can even be a factor. Unfortunately, you can’t taste the various products without buying them (or sampling from a friend). However, all powders have reviews that mention taste, and these opinions might tell you whether you’d like a particular powder.

How Much Daily Protein Do Women Need?

About 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight is adequate for most people. The 0.36 average requirement translates to 36 to 64 grams for a woman between 100 and 150 pounds.

However, many women need more. Those who are physically active will require extra. Women who are attempting to gain muscle mass should have more. Those who are pregnant also need additional protein.

You can go well over this recommended average and still be within safe limits. Active adults should intake about 10-35% of their calories from protein. If gaining muscle is your goal, you’ll do well to consume enough to approach that upper limit.

Wherever in that range your protein consumption falls, it consists of the protein you get in regular food plus the extra grams you take in via protein powder. Some people will want to keep track, and there are plenty of dietary guides to tell you how much protein normal food sources have. For protein powder, the number is right there on the label.

Meat, poultry, and seafood are the most significant protein sources for many people who aren’t vegetarian or vegan. An ounce of meat, chicken, or fish contains roughly seven grams of protein. Among other common foods, you’ll get about 10 grams of protein per serving from the following:  ½ cup of yogurt, two small eggs, a cup of quinoa, or ¾ cup of black beans.

If you do some arithmetic, you’ll see that only the most dedicated carnivores will likely hit the 100 to 150-gram upper limit for a person in the 100 to 150-pound range. Protein powders typically contain between 18 and 30 grams per serving. Unless you’re going out of your way to eat protein-rich foods every day, you’re unlikely to consume more protein than is good for you.

Furthermore, even if you’re trying to add muscle and you’re pushing the upper end of the range, you’re not likely to experience unwanted weight gain, assuming your fats and carbs are at the recommended levels. There is evidence that consuming more than 0.36 grams per pound is optimal for good health. This may be especially true for women who are trying to minimize age-related muscle loss. For these people, protein does more than merely maintain muscles; it also supports the immune system and maintains skin integrity. These are factors almost as significant as muscle tone in older folks.

Another consideration is what time of day you consume protein. Americans tend to go light in the morning and add more as the day progresses. Some research suggests that balancing protein consumption throughout the day is ideal for muscle health. The powder manufacturers who recommend a serving for breakfast are on to something.

Potential Side Effects of Using Protein Powder

Good protein powders from reputable manufacturers are unlikely to cause side effects in most women. That being said, you should be on the lookout for side effects, particularly if you are new to protein supplements.

Some people experience gastric distress, such as gas, bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. This is most common with dairy products such as whey protein and casein protein. Often this is related to some level of lactose intolerance. If this happens to you, consider switching to protein powder from a different source.

Another set of symptoms includes a runny or stuffed-up nose, hives, and rash. Again, this is often a lactose reaction. In rare cases, the lactose reaction can be severe. Those who know they are lactose-intolerant should simply avoid milk-based powders.

While plant-based protein powders generally don’t cause side effects, there are some things to watch for. Some protein powders are high in sugar and add too many calories. If you’re taking protein supplements to balance your protein, carbohydrate, and fat mix to lose or maintain weight, these powders will work against that goal.

Also, women who substitute protein powder for food-based protein run the risk of missing out on some nutrients they need. Meat, eggs, dairy, grains, and vegetables provide vitamins and other essentials that may not be present in your protein powder. If you decrease food consumption to offset powder calories, eat a balanced diet with all the necessary nutrients.

Finally, a high-protein diet can dehydrate you. If you are using extra protein to build muscle, drink plenty of water. If you frequently feel dehydrated or experience fatigue, nausea, or gastric distress, you may need to reduce your overall protein intake.

The potential downsides of moderate protein powder consumption are easily manageable. However, excessive protein use is a different story. Excessive amounts of protein cause the body to produce copious quantities of urea. This puts a lot of pressure on the kidneys as they filter urea and calcium from the blood.

If you consume large quantities of protein over extended periods, there is an elevated risk of developing kidney disorders. Renal health is not the only issue. An extreme diet of protein and protein supplements combined with few or no carbohydrates can lead to ketosis. That’s where the body uses fat as its primary energy source. This can lead to high blood acidity, which can interfere with liver function and lead to liver disorders. If these aren’t enough reasons not to consume excessive protein, soy-based protein, in particular, can provoke hormonal disruption.

However, these doom-and-gloom scenarios apply only to those who go way overboard with protein consumption. For most women, protein powder is good, and more protein in the diet is better, but there’s a limit to how much more you can safely ingest. Be attuned to your body, and change powder or reduce your consumption as necessary.

FAQ

Does protein powder expire?

Yes, it does. It’s generally good for eight months to two years, depending on the powder type, the quality of the ingredients, and how it’s stored. For maximum life, store it in a cool, dry place.

The packaging will have an expiration date; if that date has passed, dispose of the powder. Most manufacturers offer a monthly subscription. If you subscribe, you get a new supply every month and need not worry about expiration.

Will protein powder make me gain weight?

It depends. Do you want to gain weight? Some protein powders are formulated to promote muscle growth and the weight gain that accompanies it. Most powders can help with weight management because protein helps you feel full and keep feeling full for longer. A few protein powders have an excessive amount of sugar, and you should avoid these if weight maintenance or weight loss is your goal.

If you’re looking to put on muscle mass, you will have to eat a high-protein diet in addition to your powder. As a matter of perspective, a serving of protein powder has about as many calories as a medium-to-large cookie. In and of itself, protein powder will have little direct effect on your weight. Weight gain or loss will depend on what else you consume and how you exercise.

What time of day should I take protein powder?

You can use protein powder any time of day. Which times you choose might depend on how you use it. If you take protein supplements to support a workout routine, you should consume some both before and after your session.

Some research suggests that older adults should consider using it at bedtime to allow for more effective digestion and absorption. You generally won’t go wrong taking it in the morning. Many people don’t get enough protein early in the day. If you’ve been in the habit of rushing breakfast or skipping it entirely, morning protein shakes may get your day off to a better start.

How should I mix and take my protein powder?

Mixing the powder into water or a dairy or non-dairy milk product is the easiest way. Some people use a frother to mix it in. If you like, you can add a little ice. You can also add some fruit or vegetables to increase the nutrient value and make it more like a complete meal.

Some people make smoothies, add some to cereal, bake it into cookies, or use it as part of an acai bowl. Mixing it in liquid is the easiest and quickest way to prepare exactly one serving.

Can I mix my protein powder into coffee?

Sure, why not? Just be aware that not all powders readily blend into coffee or, for that matter, into other hot drinks. It may require vigorous shaking or the use of a milk frother.

Will protein powder retain its effectiveness if I bake it?

Yes, it will. Proteins, indeed are altered with high temperatures, but the amino acids are absorbed by the body so that the nutritional value remains the same. It’s similar to what happens when you cook beef or chicken.

I’m new to protein supplements. What should I think about?

Consider what other changes to make to your lifestyle. Protein powders work best when taken with an intention. If you want to gain muscle, solidify your workout routine. If your goal is weight management, make other changes to your diet to facilitate that.

Also, be aware of possible side effects, such as gastric distress, particularly if you are using dairy-based products. Don’t be afraid to change if your protein powder is causing you discomfort.

Are protein powders safe?

Generally speaking, powders from reputable manufacturers are safe when taken according to the instructions. However, the manufacture and sale of the products are lightly regulated, so it’s important to validate the manufacturer’s reputation and carefully read the ingredients label.

Some protein supplements, especially dairy-based products, can produce discomfort in women with allergies. Excessive consumption of overall protein from food and supplements is not safe. Avoid a total protein intake of more than a gram per pound of body weight.

Are protein powders safe for long-term use?

Protein powders from reputable manufacturers are safe for both short-term and long-term use. There are no cumulative impacts of ingesting safe amounts of protein.

Are protein powders safe for pregnant women?

Generally speaking, yes. Many pregnant women find that these powders are a convenient way to ensure adequate protein intake. They may even be beneficial in nausea due to pregnancy. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor for advice about your specific situation.

Can I take a protein shake in place of a meal?

You can, and some manufacturers suggest it. However, you should be aware that the average protein powder serving contains only 100-200 calories, much less than an average breakfast or lunch. If you are in the habit of skimping on breakfast or skipping it entirely, protein shakes can be a positive alternative. People trying to lose weight may choose to do this. Others might do better using protein shakes as snacks or as a meal.

Why should I consider using protein powder? What are the potential benefits?

Women take protein powders for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Increased muscle tone and muscle strength
  • Maintaining muscle mass as they age
  • Preparation for a resistance training workout
  • Recovery from a workout
  • Weight maintenance or weight loss by substituting protein for less nutritious food and reducing unhealthy eating by feeling full longer
  • Adding more protein to their diet, particularly if they are vegetarians or vegans

What kinds of workout routines are enhanced by protein powder?

Since protein supports muscle growth, you might assume that it’s beneficial for weightlifting and resistance training but not so much for cardiovascular workouts. However, endurance athletes such as runners and distance cyclists can have tremendous energy requirements. Extra protein may benefit all active people, especially if they want to lose weight.

Conclusion

Many women use protein powder these days for all sorts of good reasons. The supplements are valuable for adding muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, preparing for and recovering from workouts, and preserving muscle mass as they age. There’s a vast array of protein products, and it can be hard to know which to choose. It depends largely on individual preferences and your reasons for using the powders.

So, think about what you’re trying to accomplish. Consider the manufacturer, examine the ingredients, and use the information in this article. The five products we’ve recommended are a great place to start.

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