Protein may be the BUZZIEST word in the health and fitness industry…

…And with good reason! Protein is key for our hair, skin, nails, immune system, healthy mucosal cells that line the digestive tract… and pretty much every other cell in our body. Protein is so key because it’s the backbone, the building block, to cell growth and repair- for every single cell in our body. The good news is that when we eat in a well-balanced way, reaching our protein needs really isn’t so difficult… and especially when we’re conscious of getting enough- we usually find ways to sneak in some extra protein grams. Like for example in the form of protein powder.

I hear from clients and people I meet all the time that they have a “new” and “exciting” protein powder that they love, and “oh my gosh it’s the best” etc etc etc…. but wait, not so fast; because do you know what’s REALLY in your protein powder?

Here’s the issue. That protein powder you’ve been using maybe hiding some not so good-for-you ingredients that may be negatively affecting your health. Some protein powders contain heavy metals and other gross things (like DIRT), in addition to refined or artificial sugars, fibers and other things that may be making you bloated and gassy, and may not be helping with your weight loss either.

So, to avoid the dirt, and the grime in your protein powders, it’s key to choose ones that are well-sourced and that works for your body. I’m not saying that this list will do the trick, but here’s a list of protein powders that I like.So as a way to get you started on your journey toward healthy protein powders, here’s our hit list.

Protein powders we’re loving right now!

Plant Based:

Garden of Life RAW

Why we love it: Raw Organic Protein is a certified organic, non-GMO protein powder made with 13 raw sprouted proteins delivering 22 grams of protein that is dairy free with a complete profile of all the essential amino acids along with added whole food fat-soluble vitamins, probiotics and enzymes.

Orgain

Why we love it: Orgain is an organic plant-based protein powder that serves up 21g of vegan protein and only 150 calories in every serving. It has a complete amino acid profile, no added sugar, and no artificial sweeteners.

Naked Pea

Why we love it: Pea protein powder is made by extracting the soluble pea protein from yellow-split peas. Yellow pea protein is an excellent source of dietary protein for vegans. Naked Pea is made from non-GMO peas that are only grown in North America.

Sprout Living Epic Protein

Why we love it: Sprout Living protein is a blend of organic plant protein, prebiotics and nutrient-dense superfoods with absolutely no additives! Made with minimal ingredients including yellow pea, sunflower seed, pumpkin seed, sacha inchi, cranberry seed, and jerusalem artichoke.

Nutiva Hemp Seed Protein

Why we love it: Nutiva Hemp Seed Protein powder has been gently cold-processed, without the use of hexane, a harsh chemical solvent used to process non-organic soy protein powders. It’s vegan, comes in a non-BPA container, and is very digestible, making it a great choice for sensitive diets!

Animal Based:

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides 

Why we love it: Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cow. Collagen is a protein made up of amino-acids which help our body’s connective tissue, skin, hair, nails, as well as gut health.

Organic Bone Broth Protein 

Why we love it:Organic Bone Broth Protein supplies 20 grams of whole complete protein with 0 grams of sugar. It is great for people with sensitivities to dairy, grains, gluten, peas, soy and nuts. Bone Broth is a nutrient dense stock that provides protein and Type II collagen.

Naked Whey

Why we love it: Naked Whey sources their protein from grass-fed cows year-round, which are also raised without growth hormones like rBGH or rBST. Each serving includes 25 grams of protein and 5.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids. It’s also completely free of additives and artificial sweeteners.

Be Well By Kelly

Why we love it: Be Well By Kelly protein powder is made with 100% natural, Swedish grass-fed beef protein and is packed with all 8 essential amino acids, including all 3 BCAAs and naturally occurring collagen amino acids like glycine and proline. With 23g of protein per serving, you can build muscle and curb your sugar cravings.