9 Best Keto Protein Powders (2024) | #1 Keto-Friendly BRAND!

Whether you’re trying to keep your weight or blood sugar levels in check, there is no denying that a ketogenic diet and keto protein shake can do wonders for your physique and overall health.

That said, increasing your protein intake is wondrous for your health as well. But it isn’t always easy or a viable option to prepare fully nutritious meals or snacks that can accommodate your daily protein intake.

After all, following a strict keto diet doesn’t mean overloading on proteins. It means staying within optimum levels.

Protein powders that are keto-approved are a great way to stay in ketosis and monitor your daily protein intake. After all, they’re also a great meal replacement for when you’re not able to prepare a full meal for yourself.

Take a look at nine of the best low carb and low sugar keto-friendly protein powders in the market today.

Review Summary:

• 1. Perfect Keto Whey Protein – #1 Best Protein Powder for Keto Diet
  
• 2. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed
• 3. Performance Lab
• 4. Onnit Whey Protein
• 5. ON Platinum Hydrowhey
• 6. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
• 7. Bulk Supplements Isolate 90%
• 8. Nature’s Best Isopure Zero Carb
• 9. Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

Best Keto Protein Powder (Brands for 2024)

The first thing you have to remember when choosing any protein powder is that it needs to be low—or no, carb as well as low—or no, sugar. This will guarantee that it is safe and will not knock you off ketosis.

Another thing you should keep a close eye on is the protein and supplement. Obviously, you need to make sure you’re taking just enough protein daily.

But more than that, you need to make sure you’re getting a super source of nutrition, especially if you’re considering it as a viable meal replacement. If you don’t want to read through this lengthy review you can jump straight to their product links below.

Take a look at nine of the best keto-approved protein powders in the market today:

1. Perfect Keto – #1 Keto Protein Powder

Perfect Keto’s product is low-carb, dietary fiber <1g, and made of hi-quality grass-fed whey protein. The website even features a helpful guide on when it’s best to use the product. For example, you can use it post-workout if you want to help your muscles recover. It tastes delicious, and it doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients that your body doesn’t need.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Simple Meal Replacement – one of the best things about this product is that it’s very easily mixable. Moreover, you don’t even need to add it to a smoothie or shake it since you can just mix it into your milk or water, and it will still mix well and be easy to drink. Contains organic superfoods.

If you’re wanting as plenty fatty acids as possible to help boost your ketone levels, this product does the trick.

Summary: This is my favorite low carb protein shake is perfect if you want something all-natural and completely filling. It’s perfect for a variety of uses whether you’re planning to use it post or pre workout throughout the day. Unfortunately, it does tend to clump in coffee and water so you might need to watch out for that when mixing. I recommend using an avocado base or mixing in a bit of MCT oil or coconut oil. They have developed a number of quality products.

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2. Transparent Labs 100% – Best Tasting Whey Isolate Powder

This Transparent Labs 100% whey protein isolate powder comes in different all-natural flavours ranging from the traditional chocolate to a more inventive cereal splash or cinnamon pastry.

One of the things I enjoyed the most is the varying flavor selection, which allows you to choose one for every type of craving. It’s perfect (such as Protein powder Kiss My Keto)  if you want something that tastes like you’re cheating on your diet even when you’re not.

Here’s what you’ll like:

All-Natural Goodness – although the flavors may seem too excellent to be true, they’re made from all-natural ingredients and without any additives and unnecessary artificial preservatives. You aren’t putting anything unnecessary into your body, and you’re unlikely to feel like you’re forcing yourself to chug down a horrible tasting protein drink.

Summary: Aside from the need to improve the container, this product is perfect if you’re picky about flavors or are often searching for something sweet but nutritious. It is made of all-natural components and comes in different delicious flavors as well as delivers 24 gram of protein per serving.

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3. Performance Lab Protein – Best Vegan Protein Powder

Performance Lab claims that their’ protein powder is the cleanest and most effective in the store, which is why we put it to the test. Unsurprisingly, this all-natural product did yield satisfactory results. It features a patented protein powder formula made of organic brown rice that is both nutritious and has a hi protein yield per serving.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Just as Effective as Whey – this protein powder blend is known to be just as effective as its more popular counterpart—whey, it is the only rice protein that is patented and formulated to improve your athletic performance.

Summary: This protein powder is best if you don’t mind splurging a bit for its advantages. It’s also better for you if you’re a serious athlete. This is because it’s meant to cater to those with a more active and physically demanding lifestyle.

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4. Onnit Whey Protein

This Onnit is a popular choice because it’s effective, contains a nice amount of whey isolate, and delivers a complete amino acid profile with each serving. It comes in two flavors—Mexican chocolate and vanilla. And although it is low-carb, it contains a higher caloric count than I would like.

Here’s what you’ll like:

Muscle Gains – if you’re a serious bodybuilder, you’ll appreciate that this product helps you gain muscles as quickly and efficiently as possible. It also has leucine, which helps your body with muscle synthesis.

Summary: If you’re a serious bodybuilder, this vanilla protein powder is perfect for you. It may contain a hi-calorie count, but aside from that, it contains a great source of protein. Moreover, it’s also a wonderful source of BCAAs and it comes in two classic, yet great flavors. My favorite is vanilla.

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5. Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydrowhey

This Platinum Hydrowhey protein powder by ON features the most advanced whey products. It features a protein source that is delivered to your body faster, you’re going to feel the advantages faster.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Hi-Protein Yield – this protein powder yields 30 grams of pure protein with each serving. This also means you’ll need to take fewer servings throughout the day.

Summary: This protein powder is perfect for anyone who is looking for something that is fast-acting and delivers an excellent bit of protein. It’s very low when it comes to sugar and net carbohydrate content which makes it perfect for keto diets. However, it doesn’t taste very good so it’s better mixed into complicated protein shakes and smoothies.

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6. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

This Vital Proteins protein powder is available in stick packs or capsules, which makes it unique, in my opinion. Has only one ingredient— collagen. Moreover, it’s also sustainably sourced from grass-fed, and pasture-fed bovines, which guarantees that the protein source is high-quality.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Convenient – these products are easily digestible, so you won’t have to worry about digestive issues. Moreover, it’s also easily mixable, which means you won’t suffer frustration from trying to mix it.

Summary: It seems as though the biggest drawback of this product is quality control. Some customers have complained that they received half empty containers or powders that seem like an entirely different product. Aside from that, it’s relatively nutrient-rich.

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7. Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate 90%

This protein powder is best for anyone who doesn’t want to spend a fortune on excellent protein powder. Although certainly not the best on this list, it does pack a lot of good products for a reasonable price.

Here’s why I like it:

Good Value – unlike other budget products, this protein powder provides you with an excellent source of protein.  You can add it any diet, inlcuding ketogenic diet without any of the usual drawbacks.

Summary: Despite lacking in presentation and packaging, this protein powder is undeniably top value for a reasonable price. It provides you with a hi-protein yield and a excellent source of daily nutrients.

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8. Nature’s Best Isopure Zero Carb / Low Carb Powder

This zero carb protein powder puts your health and nutrition first. One of the best things about it is that it helps you gain lean muscle without fear of gaining weight due to fat.

Summary: Unless you want to drink this banana cream protein powder on its own, you shouldn’t encounter any problems. However, it would be best if you mixed it into your low carb protein powder. It contains a lot of important nutrients and advantages and is perfect for anyone who wants to build lean muscle.

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9. Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein

This unflavored protein powder is as natural and beneficial as they get. It comes unflavored and features Collagen types I, II, III, V, and X, which support a healthier gut, glowing skin, healthy hair, stronger nails, and better joints.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Protein Blend – this protein powder is a blend of four food sources: beef protein, chicken, fish, and the membrane of eggshells. This makes it a perfect blend of multiple nutrients as well as a great source of protein and nutrients.

Summary: This protein powder is perfect if you want something to help you feel fuller without actually filling you up on your daily protein requirement much. It’s unflavored, and filled with many important nutrients and collagen types that help you glow and feel healthier.

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BONUS – Orgain Keto Protein Powder

Orgain Keto Protein Powder stands out as a commendable choice in the realm of ketogenic nutrition. Crafted with precision, this protein powder seamlessly integrates into the low-carb, high-fat lifestyle, offering a palatable solution to meet both protein and macronutrient needs.

First and foremost, the protein blend in Orgain is a testament to thoughtful formulation. Comprising high-quality sources such as grass-fed collagen peptides and organic whey protein, it delivers a robust amino acid profile essential for muscle synthesis and repair. The collagen peptides, in particular, contribute not only to the protein content but also bring forth benefits for joint and connective tissue health.

Beyond the protein composition, Orgain distinguishes itself with a well-calibrated fat profile. Avocado oil, a key ingredient, furnishes a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This not only complements the ketogenic dietary framework but also aligns with current nutritional insights on the importance of incorporating diverse fat sources for overall health.

Importantly, the carbohydrate content is meticulously controlled, adhering to the strict standards of the keto diet. With only a minimal presence of net carbs, this protein powder ensures that one can stay within their daily carbohydrate limits, facilitating and sustaining a state of ketosis.

Texture and taste, often critical factors in selecting a protein powder, receive due attention in Orgain’s offering. The powder dissolves easily, resulting in a smooth and appetizing shake. The flavor profile, while subjective, generally receives positive acclaim, with options like chocolate and vanilla catering to diverse palates.

A distinguishing feature is the inclusion of organic ingredients, aligning with a broader trend towards cleaner and more sustainable nutrition. The absence of artificial additives, colors, and preservatives is a noteworthy advantage for those mindful of the overall quality of their dietary choices.

In conclusion, Orgain emerges as a scientifically sound and meticulously crafted supplement for individuals committed to a ketogenic lifestyle. With its emphasis on premium protein sources, balanced fat composition, and organic integrity, it stands as a reliable ally in the pursuit of nutritional goals within the confines of a ketogenic framework.

What Are The Major Benefits of Keto Protein?

Ketogenic protein powders, in general, are any keto-friendly protein powder that will not knock you off ketosis. Although a keto diet is usually undertaken for weight loss, there are many other benefits that a keto lifestyle—and a low carb keto protein powder, can give you.

Here are my key takeaways:

• Weight loss – at the top of our list is weight loss. Many individuals switch to a diet because of its efficacy and how it can promote healthy weight loss. This is achieved in many ways, like boosting your metabolism and curbing your appetite.
• Helps improve your acne – if you suffer from acne, switching to a ketogenic diet may help. Comprehensive reviews and a study believes that since a diet decreases your carbohydrate intake, this could help balance your gut bacteria and blood sugar levels, which in turn will reduce acne.
• Reduced Cancer Risk in Certain Types – although research and studies are limited, some studies have shown that following a diet is perfect in preventing or curing certain types of cancers. Some researchers even believe that practicing a ketogenic lifestyle while undertaking chemotherapy or radiation therapy increases the oxidative stress on cancer cells, which will encourage them to die.
• Encourages a Healthy Heart – a ketogenic diet requires you to eat more healthful fats. This will lead to better heart health because it reduces your cholesterol.
• Helps Protect Your Brain Functions – some studies suggest that the ketones generated during a ketogenic diet can provide protective advantages to your neurological network. This is believed to help manage or prevent neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
• Reduces the Risk of Seizures – the Epilepsy Foundation has suggested that ketosis can help reduce seizures that are caused and related by epilepsy. The fact is said to be truer for people who experience trouble reacting to other treatment methods. Although there is not much research surrounding this claim, a study done in 2019 supports this statement.
• Improves the Symptoms of PCOS – A study in 2005 has proven that undertaking a diet can improve the hallmark effects of PCOS. PCOS sufferers often notice weight loss, improved hormone balance, improved ratios of LH and FSH as well as improved levels of fasting insulin. The same can be said for other hormonal disorders as well.

As you can see, it is highly beneficial for many reasons. The same advantages apply to take plant-based protein powders, which extend and support a ketogenic lifestyle.

Summary: There are many advantages to taking a keto protein powder. The most popular of which is weight loss. But more than that, you’ll also find that increasing your protein intake using plant-based keto protein powders can reduce digestive distress, help build lean muscle mass and help you lose unwanted fat in a healthy way.

What are The Major Side Effects of Keto-Friendly Protein Powder?

Despite its many advantages, a long-term commitment to the keto diet does have some adverse health implications.

Here the most major health problems associated with a keto diet:

• Kidney stones and other kidney issues
• Excessive blood protein
• Mineral deficiencies
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Fat building up in the liver

More than that, people also experience what is called keto flu, which can have the following side-effects:

• Digestive distress
• Fatigue
• Lower blood sugar levels
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Low tolerance for physical activities

You’re more likely to experience these symptoms at the start of your diet since your body will need time to adjust to its energy source.

That said, if you are part of any of the following, you should avoid the keto diet as it could have adverse effects on your health:

• Diabetic or dependent on insulin
• Those who suffer from eating disorders
• Those who suffer from kidney disease
• Those who suffer from pancreatitis
• Women who are pregnant
• Women who are lactating and breastfeeding

Overall, as with anything following this diet needs to be done in moderation and under strict supervision. Yes, there are many important advantages, but there are also some adverse health effects when not done right. It’s important to make sure you consult your physician and watch out for any side effects you may be feeling.

Summary: If you’re thinking about switching to a ketogenic diet, you need to make sure you’re ready to experience what is called the keto flu. More than that, you need to make sure your body is ready to cope with the changes. Aside from that, moderation is key. Make sure you’re getting all of your daily essential nutrients and vitamins from the food you’re taking. Make sure you’re also ready to contact your doctor whenever you’re feeling any adverse effects.

When is the Best Time to Take?

This is a somewhat controversial topic for health enthusiasts. Ultimately, I believe that it would depend on your goals. However, the most popular opinion seems to be that you should take your protein powder during what is called the anabolic window.

Ideally, this is 15-30 minutes after your exercise. Enthusiasts believe that this window is the best time to get the advantages of the nutrients in your protein powder.

It will depend on your preferences.  If you’re not taking protein powders strictly to help with your workouts. You shouldn’t take too much throughout the day. So make sure you’re not overconsuming protein powder.

Ideally, you can take it once or twice a day, depending on your daily protein requirement.

Alternatively, you could also take kiss my keto protein powders prior to sleeping. This will help improve muscle synthesis and help your body relax, sleep better, and recover after a strenuous day.

Ultimately, many studies have proven that the anabolic window is not necessary. Regardless of when you take your protein powder, you will reap its benefits accordingly. If you take it in the morning, it is supposed to help you feel fuller longer. Moreover, it should also help you feel more ready for a workout.

Even if you don’t take it after your workout, it will still help with muscle recovery. However, the effects would be much more pronounced if taken after a workout. As for its other benefits, if taken correctly, alongside an active lifestyle, you are likely to see improvements regardless of when and how you’re taking your protein powders.

Summary: There is no proven “effective” way of taking protein powders like pea, hemp, soy, whey, caseine. It ultimately depends on your convenience, preferences, and decisions. What you need to be worried about is whether you’re taking enough or too much. Make sure you’re taking just the right amount to reap the full benefits and so as not to suffer from any adverse effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve taken a look at some of the most pressing questions about keto protein powders and answered them for you below.

Do Protein Bars Kick You Out of Ketosis?

They can if they contain non-keto ingredients. Basically, anything can kick you out of ketosis if it contains non-keto-approved ingredients. For example, if it contains sugar and carbohydrates, you’re likely to be kicked off ketosis quickly.

Is Plant Based Protein Powder Keto Friendly?

Yes, plant-based protein powder can be keto-friendly, depending on the specific ingredients and macronutrient composition. While traditional ketogenic diets emphasize high fat intake, moderate protein intake, and very low carbohydrate intake to induce and maintain a state of ketosis, plant-based protein powders can align with these principles.

Many plant-based protein powders are low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for a ketogenic diet. Varieties such as pea protein isolate, hemp protein, and brown rice protein typically contain minimal carbohydrates per serving, allowing individuals following a ketogenic diet to meet their protein needs without significantly impacting their carbohydrate intake.

Additionally, some plant-based protein powders are fortified with healthy fats, such as coconut oil powder or MCT oil powder, which can further support a ketogenic lifestyle by providing additional sources of fat for energy.

However, it’s essential to carefully read the nutrition labels of plant-based protein powders to ensure they fit within your specific macronutrient targets for a ketogenic diet. Look for products with low carbohydrate content, minimal added sugars, and higher fat content, if desired, to support ketosis.

Furthermore, consider the source and processing methods of the plant-based protein powder. Opt for products that use natural, whole food ingredients and avoid those with added fillers, artificial flavors, or sweeteners that may contain carbohydrates and potentially disrupt ketosis.

Ultimately, incorporating plant-based protein powder into a ketogenic diet can offer a convenient and effective way to meet protein needs while adhering to macronutrient goals. However, individual tolerance to specific ingredients and variations in carbohydrate content among different products should be considered when determining their compatibility with a ketogenic lifestyle.

Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on incorporating plant-based protein powder into a ketogenic diet to optimize nutritional intake and support overall health and wellness goals.

How Much Grams of Protein Should I Take on the Keto Diet?

Contrary to popular belief, to achieve perfect levels of ketosis to actually see any effect, you don’t need to lay on the protein. You should stay on moderate levels, not absurdly high levels. It’s ideal around 0.6 grams per pound of body weight per day.

For this reason, it may be better to opt for protein powders that don’t have extremely high levels of protein, but rather have more added nutrients.

Do Protein Shakes Help You Lose Belly Fat?

I get asked this question quite a bit. And like most people who haven’t been privy to seeing anyone try them, I’ve never tried a protein shake in my life. So if you’re not a fan of the flavor or the consistency of the shakes that you’ve seen in the grocery store, let me give you a few reasons to give them a try. You’re Better Off Not Dieting And Actually Losing Weight Instead.

Diets are a waste of time and the cause of weight gain. This is because the majority of what we’re told to eat (more protein, fewer carbohydrates, etc.) is only good for burning fats for energy and muscle growth. And they’re hard to get and super expensive. Most people who try to diet, give up because they never see the result they wanted. Protein shakes are a solution to that. Instead of counting calories, you eat the number of calories that your body actually needs, without paying attention to macros and all of the other jargon that goes into fitness and weight loss. And you get the benefits of high protein, low carb, and fat content from those calories.

Where Can I Buy?

There are many retailers you can choose from. Whether you’re shopping from a physical store or online, there are definitely many options. For example, you could go to Walmart or browse through the GNC online catalog.

Wherever you’re purchasing, make sure they have a solid reputation and that you’re getting an authentic product. Alternatively, you can also purchase the product directly from their website to ensure authenticity.

Are Premier Protein Shakes Keto Friendly?

Thrive Market has been carrying other Premier Protein varieties lately, so you can compare those to the new keto-friendly varieties. Like many brands, Premier Protein claims that they are “true Paleo” foods. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend these on a keto diet, but I wouldn’t classify them as junk food, either. If you want to use Premier Protein as part of your keto diet, I recommend sticking to the original protein flavors. Soy Protein. Premier Protein uses soy protein powder, not whey, which is the primary protein found in many protein shakes and bars. Soy proteins have a higher glycemic index, so you’ll want to use them as part of a meal or snack, not as the main ingredient in a protein shake.

While soy protein powders aren’t the most reliable protein sources, they are convenient. You can pick up a box at most major grocery stores or major drug stores, or you can order Premier Protein shakes with net carbs and bars online. FATS: Are Premier Protein Shakes Keto Friendly? While soy and whey are both excellent, non-animal proteins, the main ingredients in some keto-friendly protein shakes are natural fats, like coconut and avocados. Premier Protein is a brand that puts both in their shakes and bars, but most keto-friendly brands contain only olive oil or walnuts.

Will Protein Shakes Kick Me Out of Ketosis?

Many of my clients who are interested in keto/ketogenic diets ask me about protein shakes. Some are just a daily habit while others have heard about how good they are for controlling your hunger. Protein shakes are one of my favorite low-carb diets substitutes, but I’ve been hearing mixed reviews about how they affect your body’s ability to maintain ketosis. According to Mayo Clinic, a ketogenic diet means you don’t eat any carbs, but only consume 70-85% of your daily calories from fat. You want to be in this range to maintain your body’s ability to burn fat instead of storing it. You’re meant to eat around 1-3 grams of carbs a day—more if you’re a “traditional” keto dieter, and less for those who prefer a high-protein, low-carb approach to keto.

Are Bananas Keto Friendly?

Bananas are a great choice for those who are keto dieters. Bananas do not break down keto when taken in proper quantity. A good amount of bananas is enough for a keto diet. A lot of people also take bananas for diabetes and banana skin contains important blood sugar-regulating compounds. These are small brown fruits that are the most loved and preferred fruits by people of all ages. Bananas are full of potassium and other nutrients that will help your body to perform normally.

Final Words

Keto Protein Powder is perfect for anyone who is trying not to get knocked out of ketosis. Moreover, much like any other protein powder, you can use most of them for baking or for smoothies.

As discussed above, you might find that sticking to a keto protein powder proves beneficial to every user, not only those who follow a ketogenic diet. It can help curb appetite, sustain healthy weight loss, and help keep you in tip-top shape.

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That said, there are certainly many options in shops. However, I found that the Perfect Keto Whey Protein offers the best value and the best results. It comes in great flavors, it’s easily mixable, and it helps you reap the benefits of nutrition all in a single serving.

Whichever product you choose, I’m sure we can all agree. The choices above are more than just attractive; they are the best in the shop and will get you the results you deserve.