Five Quality Protein Powders for Athletes from A Registered Dietitian

Adequate protein intake is essential for athletes to build and repair muscle tissue and recover from training. Consuming enough protein can be challenging for some athletes. For this reason, I often see individuals using protein powders to supplement. While protein powders can be great, it is important to remember that they should be used as a supplement to a balanced diet, and not as a complete replacement for meals. It’s also important to educate yourself on what you should be looking for on your protein powder labels.

Did you know, many protein powders and supplements are not regulated by the FDA? This means that what is on the label may not be exactly what you are getting. It also means that your product could have ingredients in there that can cause you to test positive on a drug test.

As an athlete, you always want to be checking your labels for third party testing. NSF Certified for Sport is the gold standard. Other certifications you may see include Informed Sport, Informed Choice, and BSCG. Even if you are not playing a collegiate sport, I still recommend looking for third party testing so that you know what you are putting in your body.

What type of protein is best?

I am often recommending whey protein isolate as it is easily digested by the body and is a complete protein source, making it a great option for muscle building and repair. Most of the lactose is removed during processing, so some individuals who are lactose intolerant are still able to tolerate this form.

Plant based protein powders are also an option. Looking for products with a blend of sources such as pea, soy, brown rice or hemp is best to ensure you are getting adequate BCAAs, which are important for muscle protein synthesis.

Here are Five Quality Protein Powders for Athletes (that I have personally used):

1. Momentous Absolute Zero Whey & Plant Protein options - both have great flavor! This is a personal fav.

   Use code Jones15 for 15% off (Affiliate Link)

2. Vega Sport (Plant based option) -

3. OWYN (Plant based option). This one is not NSF certified for sport, but they do specify on the website that they do third party testing. I really like their ready to drink shakes as well. Use code OWYNHCP-643495 for 20% off (Affiliate Link)

4. Ascent (Whey & Plant Protein options)

5. Garden of Life Sport (Whey & Plant Protein options). Purchase through my Fullscript account for 15% off

Note: This blog contains affiliate links. When you purchase using my codes I get a small commission.