Protein is an essential part of every diet and serves many functions in our bodies from building muscle to fighting illness. Protein is found in your muscles, bones, skin, & hair—pretty much every part of us needs protein to be healthy. Most adults in the US usually get more than enough protein from plant and animal sources: meat, dairy, beans, nuts, seeds, and tofu are all high in protein. But, if you are very active, or if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, you may want to incorporate protein powder into your daily routine to guarantee you are getting enough.
Women should take in about 7 grams of protein each day for every 20 pounds of body weight, but the more active you are the more protein you will need. In addition to fueling our bodies, protein powders help us feel satisfied, which will curb excessive carb loading after we ramp up a workout, in addition to helping us build muscle and burn fat.
We’ve compiled a list of the best protein powders for women to make your search for the perfect protein supplement just a little bit easier.
What should you look for in protein powders?
- Look for protein powders with at least 15 to 20 grams of protein per serving.
- Avoid protein powders with added sugar.
- If you are taking your protein powder post-workout, you want to make sure it has some carbs as well.
Protein Powders:
Sakara Life Source Super Powder (click here)
The perfect protein powder for those who really don’t like the taste of traditional protein. Sakara Life has a mission to deliver life-changing healthy foods with ingredients that you can trust. The Sakara Life Super Powder contains 12 grams of plant protein from a blend of whole pea, hemp, sesame, and pumpkin seeds. It also only contains only one gram of sugar per serving!
Bloom Supplement Protein Powders (click here)
If you are looking for a high quality protein powder that tastes absolutely amazing, look no further. These protein powders, with 22g of protein per serving, are made from whey isolates, which are easy for the body to process, digest, and absorb. They also contain digestive enzymes for those who may not absorb protein as well. Be aware that whey is an animal protein, though, so if you’re looking for a vegan powder, this is not the one for you.
Cocoa Elite Complete Body Protein Powder Vegan (click here)
This is a great option for women because it is high in iron, which many women are deficient in, and antioxidants, which help with energy levels and inflammation. Cocoa Elite is vegan and made with all natural ingredients. With 10g of protein per serving, it’s a good starter powder for women who want to be active, but not necessarily bulk up.
RSP Nutrition AvoCollagen Protein Powder (click here)
This protein powder quite literally has it all. It contains 10 grams of collagen peptides that help support skin, hair, nails, bones, joints, and muscle health. It also has added avocado oil that helps fight inflammation. Just mix one scoop of protein with 8 fl oz of water, and you’re good to go!
Ascent Native Fuel Micellar Casein (click here)
Made from all natural ingredients, this milk-derived protein powder has a whopping 25 grams of protein and is a certified gluten free product. It digests slowly, so it works well as a before-bed treat to help your muscles recover during sleep. The preferred brand of the USA weightlifting team, Ascent is a great protein option for serious athletes.