8 Best Healthy Protein Powders
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Updated 8/26/25
Not All Protein Powders Are Created Equal
When it comes to choosing the best protein for your shakes, smoothies, bowls, or baking, the options can feel endless. Whey? Collagen? Vegan? Egg-based? Each one has its benefits—and what works best for you depends on your body, goals, preferences, and sensitivities.
Before we get to our top 8 favorite protein powders, let’s walk through how to determine which kind of protein is right for YOU.
How to Choose the Right Protein Powder for Your Goals
Ask yourself these 3 key questions:
What’s your health or fitness goal?
Muscle building or recovery? Look for complete proteins with all essential amino acids—like whey or rice + pea combos.
Skin, joints, and gut health? Collagen-based or bone broth proteins are great.
Everyday nourishment or meal replacement? Consider a balanced plant-based blend with greens or superfoods.
Do you have any dietary restrictions or preferences?
Lactose intolerant? Skip whey and go for plant-based or egg.
Avoiding soy/gluten? Check labels carefully. The best powders are free of common allergens.
Vegan or vegetarian? Stick to rice, pea, or mixed plant-based blends.
How’s your digestion?
Some people tolerate whey well; others feel bloated or gassy. If that’s you, collagen, bone broth, or rice-based protein may work better.
Smart Tip: Always check ingredient labels. Look for simple, recognizable ingredients with no artificial sweeteners, fillers, or gums. Less is more.
Now let’s dig into the top protein powders we love—and actually use.
Our Top 8 Favorite Protein Powders (Animal & Plant-Based)
1. Garden of Life Organic Grass-Fed Whey
Why we love it:
Delicious taste, easy mixability
Grass-fed, hormone-free source
21g protein, 2 billion CFU probiotics, BCAAs
Organic, non-GMO, gluten-free
Great For: Muscle building, post-workout recovery
Buy Garden of Life Grass-Fed Whey →
2. LivWell Plant Plant Made Protein
Why we love it:
No Heavy Metals - Our cold-crafted proteins are made with only cold water and natural enzymes.
Energizing protein that doesn't mix like a sandbox. *We can attest to this - probably the BEST plant based protein we’ve ever tried.
USDA Certified Organic - Organic means non-GMO, free of synthetic fertilizers, hormones, antibiotics, and chemicals.
Great For: Health, Vitality, Clean Protein, Chemical Free
3. Drink Wholesome
Why we love it:
Limited ingredients and only whole food ingredients
Simply protein or meal replacement options - whey or vegan too!
Recommended for sensitive stomachs
Great For: Gut Health, Sensitivities, Digestion
4. Thorne Whey Protein Isolate
Why we love it:
Rated best protein powders for women
21g protein per serving, smooth, great taste
NSF Certified for Sport
Great For: Gut health, joint support, digestion
5. Tera’s Whey Protein (Bourbon Vanilla)
Why we love it:
Organic, grass-fed, smooth taste
21g protein per serving
Certified gluten-free, low glycemic
Great For: Everyday smoothies, flavor-rich recipes
6. Garden of Life Plant-Based Sport Protein
Why we love it:
30g protein from organic pea, brown rice, and more
Certified for sport, vegan, non-GMO
Includes antioxidants, probiotics, and BCAAs
Great For: Plant-based athletes or intense training
7. Amazing Grass Protein & Kale
Why we love it:
20g complete vegan protein + a full serving of leafy greens
Smooth taste, clean ingredients, no stevia
Great For: Nutrient-dense shakes with greens built in
Grab Amazing Grass Protein & Kale →
8. Naked Rice Protein
Why we love it:
Just 1 ingredient: organic sprouted brown rice
25g protein, 0g sugar, gluten-free, hexane-free
Great For: Ultra-clean vegan protein with a neutral taste
Action Steps: How to Choose YOUR Best Fit
Pick your protein type (whey, egg, collagen, plant, bone broth)
Check your goals: Are you focused on muscle, digestion, skin, or overall wellness?
Try 1-2 to start and test how you feel and how it tastes in different recipes.
Start small: Mix into your shakes, overnight oats, pancake batter, or coffee.
No matter which protein powder you choose, consistency is key. Use what works for YOUR body and goals—and enjoy the benefits of smarter fueling, one scoop at a time.
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