11 Best Whey Protein Powders, According to Registered Dietitians 2024

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Met-Rx Meal Replacement Powder

“My husband has been guzzling the stuff twice daily, for years, and he can bench press many, many pounds, so there must be something good here, right? While I can’t say it’s the tastiest thing on earth (but what protein powder is?), he loves that this is a full meal replacement with vitamins, minerals and carbs. It’s also ‘heartier and more filling’ than the 10 or so other protein powders he’s had in his rotation over the past two decades,” says Ormont Blumberg. Some people might think it’s a little chalky and on the thick side, Ormnt Blumberg’s husband warns, especially if you come from the EAS Myoplex camp or are used to mixing up pure protein powders.

Protein serving: 35-36 gramsPros: Mega protein; thick texture; easy to mix in a shaker bottleCons: Limited flavors; contains artificial flavorSave when you shop for the best whey protein powders with these Amazon promo codes.

Do you need a protein powder?As with all things nutrition, speak with your doctor or dietitian to know what’s best for your specific body and health concerns. That said, a balanced diet from whole foods (eating your meats and veggies) will go a long way. “Food sources of protein tend to be more nutrient-dense than protein powders, says Kim Yawitz, RD, a registered dietitian in St. Louis, Missouri. “Assuming you’re in good health, you really don’t need powders if you’re getting plenty of protein in your diet.”

But, considering the fast-paced culture we live in, a protein powder is a practical solution to meet dietary protein needs, says Claire Rifkin, MS, RDN, an NYC-based women’s health dietitian in telehealth private practice. “As a dietitian, I recognize the numerous challenges associated with maintaining a healthy diet, and if protein powder serves as a feasible means to fulfill someone’s protein requirements, I fully support it.”

What’s more, “High-protein diets can help women build and maintain muscle, which is super important since we naturally begin losing muscle mass at age 30,” says Yawitz.

The bottom line: While you don’t necessarily need protein powder, adding protein powder to a smoothie that includes fiber-rich ingredients like spinach or berries, and a source of healthy fats, such as almond butter, can easily turn into a healthy and easy go-to meal or snack, says Rifkin. What’s not to love about that?