What To Look For In a Protein Powder (And What To Avoid)

Walk down the supplement aisle and you'll find hundreds of protein powders claiming to be the "healthiest" option…but not all protein powders are created equal. While protein supplements can be a convenient way to help you meet your daily needs (especially after a workout or on busy mornings to help fill the gaps), it's important to look beyond the marketing on the front of the package and read the ingredient list.

When choosing a protein powder, I recommend looking for products made with simple, recognizable ingredients and a high-quality protein source. Ideally, your protein powder should provide around 20–30 grams of protein per serving with minimal added sugar and ingredients you can actually pronounce. I also encourage choosing products that are third-party tested whenever possible to ensure quality and purity.

On the flip side, try to avoid protein powders packed with artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, gums, fillers, and long ingredient lists. While these ingredients aren't necessarily harmful for everyone, many people find they can cause digestive discomfort like bloating or gas. If you're looking to support your health with whole foods, choosing a minimally processed protein powder is often the better option.

One brand I recommend is Drink Wholesome. Unlike many protein powders on the market, it's made with real food ingredients and uses egg white protein as its primary protein source, without artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or unnecessary additives. Egg white protein is a complete protein, meaning it provides all nine essential amino acids needed to support muscle repair, recovery, and overall health. Drink Wholesome never leaves me feeling any digestive discomfort, so it’s the perfect addition to my wellness routine. I love adding it to smoothies or even baking with it. I even added it to my new peach baked oats recipe for a high protein breakfast boost!

At the end of the day, protein powder should be exactly what it sounds like - a simple way to add protein to your diet, not another ultra-processed junk food. Focus on quality over marketing claims, and remember that protein powder is meant to supplement a balanced diet, not replace whole food sources of protein. Choosing a product with simple ingredients can help you feel your best while making it easier to reach your nutrition goals!