6 Best Supplements for Protein

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Best Supplements for Protein

Best Protein Supplements | Common Questions

Looking for a best supplement for protein? You’re not alone.

Protein is essential for human health, and many people don’t get enough from their diet.

This can lead to a variety of health problems. Fortunately, there are many different protein supplements available.

In this article, we will discuss the 6 best protein supplements, who may benefit from it, and who should avoid it.

Below we also talk about risks, and other important things to consider like protein intake.

Please keep in mind supplements are lightly regulated by the FDA. Their stated claims have no guarantee. They aren’t cures or treatments for any diseases.

Food is your best source of nutrition. Please check with your doctor before any supplement program.

We include items that we trust will be useful to our visitors. If you click on one of the links on our site, we may get a commission. More info below.

Finally, you may also want a blood test to confirm you have protein deficiency before making any decisions.

If you want more helpful info on supplements – including risks and general FDA guidelines – please see our “Supplements and Vitamins – Ultimate Beginner’s Guide”.

6 Best Supplements for Protein

  1. Best OverallOptimum Nutrition “Gold Standard 100% Whey”
  2. Best FlavorCodeage “Kona Coffee Multi Collagen”
  3. Quality of IngredientsCare/of “Whey Protein”
  4. Most ProteinBulk Supplements “Whey Protein Isolate”
  5. Best for L-LysineSuperior Lab “L-Lysine”
  6. Best Protein for Hair and NailsAncient Nutrition “Multi Collagen Protein Powder”

1 – Best for Overall – Optimum Nutrition

  • Price = $ 37.99
  • # of Servings = 24 g
  • Price per Serving = 24g
  • Product Reviews = 5/5 with 1483 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = double rich chocolate
  • Labeled Effect = build and maintain muscle
  • Food Allergens = contains milk and soy
  • Pros = lots of different sizes, flavors and lots of protein
  • Cons = similar to other products on market

About “Gold Standard 100% Whey”:

There are many products on the market for whey protein powder.

What distinguishes this whey protein powder product is its customization. You can pick a variety of flavors and packaging options.

Flavors include chocolate peanut butter and much more!

With an incredibly high rating from thousands of reviews, this is a good option if you want to select a whey protein concentrate for muscle building.

Made by “Optimum Nutrition”:

About Optimum Nutrition: Made and trusted by athletes, Optimum Nutrition has decades of experience. According to ReviewMeta.com, Optimum Nutrition receives a 4.1/5 average adjusted rating from 67,776 verified reviews.

  • Start = 1986
  • Revenue = $21 million
  • Employees = 112
  • Mission = helping performance focused athletes achieve their goals
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP, NSF
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.1/5 average adjusted rating from 67,776 verified reviews

2 – Best Flavor – Codeage

  • Price = $ 39.99
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $ 1.33
  • Product Reviews = 4.7/5 with 78 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = chocolate mocha flavor, 1-2 scoops with 8-12oz of water
  • Labeled Effect = play role in bone, hair, muscle, gut, nails
  • Food Allergens = contains fish and egg
  • Pros = collagen for diverse protein functions (like hair, nails, etc)
  • Cons = not as much grams of protein per serving

About “Kona Coffee Multi Collagen”:

This supplement is intended for adding to your coffee! However you can add it to your water too.

The key factor in this supplement is collagen

Collagen helps make up your nails, hair, muscles and is overall the most abundant type of protein in your body.

But why we love this supplement is because of the flavor, in addition to the health benefits!

If you want a protein supplement for purely muscle building, look elsewhere. This supplement has less protein per serving.

But if you notice brittle nails and hair, and want some additional protein this is a good option to try.

Made by “Codeage”:

About Codeage: Relatively new to the industry, Codeage was founded in 2018 in Los Angeles. According to ReviewMeta, Codeage has a 4.3/5 average adjusted rating of 2,358 verified reviews. 

  • Start = 2018
  • Revenue = less than $5 million
  • Employees = less than 25
  • Mission = achieve a longer, better and healthier life
  • Third Party Certifications = cGMP
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.3/5 average rating of 2,358 reviews

3 – Best Quality of Ingredients – Care/of

  • Price = $ 28.00
  • # of Servings =  15
  • Price per Serving = $1.86
  • Product Reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = whey protein powder, mix two scoops with 10oz of liquid
  • Labeled Effect = Supports in muscles and bones skin hair
  • Food Allergens = contains milk
  • Pros = whey protein isolate
  • Cons = no other vitamins and minerals 

About “Whey Protein”:

Whey protein powder is the most common protein supplement.

Whey protein isolate is a variation of whey protein, which has a higher concentration of protein.

While there are similar products on the whey protein concentrate supplement market, with Care/Of you can rest assured of their quality ingredients.

They are very transparent!

Made by “Care/Of”:

About Care/Of: Founded in 2016 in New York City, Care/Of personalizes vitamins and mineral supplementation with thorough, transparent science. According to Influenster.com, Care/Of is rated on average 4.5/5 with 240 reviews.

  • Start = 2016
  • Revenue = $19 million
  • Employees = 100
  • Mission = deliver it to you straight
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP, NSF
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.5/5 with 240 reviews

4 – Best for Most Protein – Bulk Supplements

  • Price = $ 13.96
  • # of Servings = 3
  • Price per Serving = $4.42
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 with 2880 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 30g serving size
  • Labeled Effect = support in muscles 
  • Food Allergens = dairy
  • Pros = lots of high quality protein, contains other amino acids and ingredients too
  • Cons = 30g of protein per serving size is a lot, high cost per serving

About “Whey Protein Isolate”:

Whey Protein Isolate gives you a large amount of protein if you are looking for muscle building support. 

This supplement also provides a range of other ingredients, including amino acids, potassium and calcium. 

As most other whey isolates don’t provide additional vitamins and minerals, this is a nice addition.

Plus, Bulk Supplements, the company behind Whey Protein Isolate, is a popular company and well-regarded in the fitness industry.

However, the $4.42 cost per serving is something to beware about.

Made by “Bulk Supplements”:

About Bulk Supplements: Bulk Supplements started in 2011 and is based in Nevada. Its main manufacturing facility is FDA registered. According to ReviewMeta.com, average adjusted rating is 4.4/5 from 39,370 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2011
  • Revenue = $10 million
  • Employees = 50
  • Mission
  • Third Party Certifications = NSF, cGMP
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.4/5 from 39,370 reviews

5 – Best for L-Lysine – Superior Lab 

  • Price = $ 18.45
  • # of Servings = 120
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.15
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 with 1155 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = vegetarian capsule easy to digest
  • Labeled Effect = support in immune system and potency 
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = pure L-Lysine
  • Cons = only L-Lysine nothing else

About “L-Lysine”:

L-Lysine is one of the 9 essential amino acids. 

Your body cannot produce L-Lysine naturally so you must consume it through diet or supplementation.

If you are deficient in L-Lysine this supplement is suggested, however, you may want to take a quick blood test first to see if you are actually deficient!

Made by “Superior Labs”:

About Superior Labs: Began in 2007, geared for athletes, and has FDA, GMP certification. Mission statement emphasizes purity, testing, and quality. According to ReviewMeta.com, Superior Labs has an average adjusted rating of 4.3/5 with 3902 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2007
  • Revenue = $6 million
  • Employees = less than 25
  • Mission = purity, testing, and quality
  • Third Party Certifications = NSF, GMP
  • Third Party Reviews = average adjusted rating of 4.3/5 with 3902 reviews

6 – Best Protein for Hair and Nails – Ancient Nutrition

  • Price = $ 39.96
  • # of Servings = 45
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.89
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 with 44 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = one heaping scoop with 8oz of water
  • Labeled Effect = support for muscle, hair, skin and joints 
  • Food Allergens = contains egg, pollock
  • Pros = high quality collagen blend 
  • Cons = not great for muscle building

About “Multi Collagen Protein Powder”:

This is another highly reputable collage protein powder. Great for nails, skin and hair!

We love the mission statement (see below) of this company too 🙂

Made by “Ancient Nutrition”:

About Ancient Nutrition: Began in 2016 and now based out of Tennessee. Ancient Nutrition aims to use science and ingredients that have roots in ancient traditions. According to BestViewsReview.com, Ancient Nutrition receives a 9.3/10 rating from 1,725 reviews.

  • Start = 2016
  • Revenue = $13 million
  • Employees = 121
  • Mission = designed to provide Ancient Nutrients in a modern, convenient form to power the body and mind
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP
  • Third Party Reviews = 9.3/10 rating from 1,725 reviews

What factors do we use to rank supplements?

What should you look for when picking supplements?

Here are factors you should consider, and the factors we use to rank too!

1 – Price = What’s the price of the supplement? What’s the cost per serving?

At Eating Enlightenment we value quality over price. However, all else being equal, then price comes into consideration. 

2 – Reviews = How many reviews for each product? What’s the average rating? How many third party reviews?

We strongly believe in third party reviews. Many supplement companies list positive reviews on their website, but third party reviews include negative comments. We always go with third party reviews.

3 – Reputation = How reputable is the brand behind the supplement? How long has the brand been around? What’s their mission? 

We believe that a company’s intention is highly important and should be one of your top purchasing decision factors.

4 – Taste / Absorption = What’s the taste? How quickly does your body absorb the supplement? Do reviews mention any negative side effects like an upset stomach?

5 – Perceived Therapeutic Effect = What beneficial effects or feelings does this supplement promote?

6 – Food Allergens = Does the company provide allergen info?

7 – Science / Certifications = Does the company list transparent scientific studies on their website? Do third party certifications test the company’s supplement for quality control? How many certifications does the company have?

8 – Pros/Cons = What are the pros and cons of each supplement? How is the supplement unique? For what situations is this supplement best?

Who benefits most from protein supplements?

Protein supplements can be beneficial for a variety of people. They are often recommended for athletes, bodybuilders, and people who are trying to gain weight.

They can also be helpful for people who have trouble getting enough protein from their diet. This includes vegetarians, vegans, elderly people, and sick people.

People who are trying to lose weight may also benefit from protein supplements. This is because they can help you feel full and reduce your appetite.

Protein supplements are also sometimes recommended for pregnant women and young children. This is because they need extra protein for development.

When should you take protein supplements?

There is no best time to take protein supplements. It depends on your goals and preferences.

It is also important to consider the other ingredients in your supplement. For example, some protein supplements contain carbohydrates. These can affect how quickly your body absorbs the protein.

You should also be aware that taking too much protein can be harmful. This is especially true if you have certain health conditions, such as kidney disease.

If you are considering taking a protein supplement, talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if it is right for you!

Generally speaking, however, protein supplements are totally safe.

Who may not benefit from protein supplements?

Protein supplements are not necessary for most people. If you eat a balanced diet, you probably don’t need them.

In fact, taking protein supplements can be harmful for some people. This is especially true if you have certain health conditions, such as kidney disease.

Please know that many supplements are similar to protein supplements, but different in important ways too.

For example, supplements for bulk, pre-workout supplements for energy, and supplements for muscle gain. There are subtle nuances between each of these so please be sure to do your research appropriately.

Risks from supplements

Protein supplements are generally safe and have few side effects. The most common side effect is digestive upset, such as nausea, cramping, or diarrhea.

There are some risks associated with taking protein supplements. While rare, these include:

  • Allergic reactions. Some people are allergic to whey or other dairy products. If you are allergic to dairy, you should avoid protein supplements that contain whey.
  • Kidney problems. Protein supplements can cause kidney damage in people with kidney disease. If you have kidney disease, you should talk to your doctor before taking a protein supplement.
  • Liver problems. Protein supplements can cause liver damage in people with liver disease. If you have liver disease, you should talk to your doctor before taking a protein supplement.
  • Digestive problems. Protein supplements can cause digestive problems, such as nausea, cramping, or diarrhea. If you have a history of digestive problems, you should talk to your doctor before taking a protein supplement.

Food sources of protein

The best way to get protein in your diet is through food. Here are some foods that are readily available, healthy, and filled with protein:

  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Cheese
  • Yogurt
  • Lean meat, such as chicken or turkey breast
  • Fish, such as tuna or salmon
  • Beans, such as black beans, lentils, and chickpeas
  • Nuts and seeds, such as almonds and pumpkin seeds

What type of protein supplement is best?

There is no one “best” type of protein supplement. The best type of protein supplement for you depends on your individual needs and goals.

If you are trying to build muscle mass, whey protein is a good option. However, if you are trying to lose weight, egg protein or soy protein may be a better choice because it dissolves slower and keeps you full for longer.

But we don’t really talk much about weight loss here at Eating Enlightenment, so onwards!

Please know that i you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, there are many different types of protein supplements available that can meet your needs.

When choosing a protein supplement, be sure to read the label carefully. This will help you choose a product that is right for you and meets your needs.

How much protein do I need per day?

The amount of protein you need depends on your age, sex, and activity level.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. This amounts to:

  • 56 grams per day for the average sedentary man
  • 46 grams per day for the average sedentary woman

More if you are pregnant or breastfeeding!

If you are active, you may need more protein. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that active people consume 0.64-0.91 grams of protein per pound of body weight.

Protein supplements can help you meet your protein needs if you are unable to get enough from food. However, it’s important that they not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet.

Protein supplements are best when used in addition to a diet that is rich in whole foods. This will help you get the most benefit from your supplement and ensure that you are meeting all of your nutrient needs.

How to take protein supplements?

Protein supplements come in a variety of forms, including powders, bars, and shakes. They can be taken with or without food.

If you are taking a protein supplement for the first time, start with a small dose to see how your body reacts. You can then increase the amount you take as needed.

Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the directions on how to take the supplement.

Most protein supplements should be taken with water. However, some products may have different instructions, so be sure to read the label before taking.

How can I boost my protein levels quickly?

If you are looking for a quick way to boost your protein levels, you may want to consider taking a protein supplement. Protein supplements come in a variety of forms, including powders, bars, and shakes.

Protein supplements can be taken with or without food. If you are taking a protein supplement for the first time, start with a small dose to see how your body reacts. You can then increase the amount you take as needed.

Most protein supplements should be taken with water. However, some products may have different instructions, so be sure to read the label before taking.

Overall, taking a protein supplement is an easy way to increase your protein intake.

However, it’s important to remember that they should not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet.

How soon after taking protein supplements will I feel better?

The effects of protein supplements vary depending on the person. Some people may feel an immediate difference, while others may not notice any changes.

If you are taking a protein supplement to help with muscle building, it may take several weeks before you see results.

It’s important to be patient and consistent with your supplement regimen. Taking breaks or skipping doses will likely decrease the effectiveness of the supplement.

Conclusion

Protein supplements can be a helpful addition to your diet if you are unable to get enough protein from food.

There are tons of protein powders on the market and we hope this post helps you make a decision about which of these are the best protein powders for you.

However, it’s important to remember that they should not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet.

About the Author

Jared Levenson is a former binge eating wrestler turned Zen Buddhist Monk, Internal Family Systems counselor and nutrition wellness coach. He's helped hundreds of people through universal meal principles and internal family systems to make peace with food, stop binge eating, and find true health and wholeness.

@jared_levenson

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