9 Best Low-Calorie Protein Powders (2024) | #1 For Weight Loss

Low-calorie protein powders are ideal for individuals from various walks of life. Whether you’re looking for a good option to follow your ketogenic diet, or are strictly trying to lose weight, you’ll find that it is beneficial for any fitness goal.

Studies show that low-calorie protein powders are the most effective protein supplement when it comes to weight loss or depending on your personal body goals.

The key to losing weight effectively and in a healthy manner is to consume fewer calories than your body is able to burn.

Review Summary:

• 1. Transparent Lab 100% Grass-Fed – #1 Best Tasting (Lowest in Calories)l
• 2. Performance Lab
• 3. MyProtein
• 4. Perfect Keto
• 5. ISOPURE®
• 6. Dymatize Elite
• 7. BulkSupplements Isolate 90%
• 8. IDEALLEAN
• 9. VEGA ONE®

Best Low-Calorie Protein Powder (List for 2024)

There are many reasons why you should choose a low-calorie protein powder. The main reason would be for your health.

But in all honesty, I ask you this: why not? There are many options in the market that offer source that doesn’t taste horrible.

If the taste is the only thing you have to worry about, then there’s virtually no reason for you not to choose a zero-calorie protein powder.

If you’re worried about the quality of protein and nutrients that come with your protein powder, it’s not an issue either. Some of the supplements that I recommend the most are low in calories and offer the best results, whatever your fitness goals may be.

I took the time to test several products in the market that claim to be low in calories. I was able to narrow it down to nine brands.

Each of these delivers a good amount of protein product, nutrients, and unique benefits in their own right. Keep reading to find the best choice for you.

1. Transparent Lab 100% Grass-Fed – Best Tasting Lowest Calorie Powder

Transparent Labs has fought to become a namesake in the health and supplements industry. This delicious whey protein isolate powder with essential amino acids comes in inventive flavors and boasts one of the highest protein by weight ratios in the market.

But more than that, it’s naturally flavored and totally free from any artificial additives. It is sourced responsibly from hormone-free dairy cows and has passed the highest levels of food safety testing set in the industry.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

High-Quality Protein – this Transparent Labs contains 28 g. of protein per portion. That’s higher than the average yield even by whey protein standards. This allows your best protein powder to be effective for a multitude of fitness goals like fat loss or muscle building.

Summary: Transparent Labs has grown to become one of the most respected brand names in the supplement market. This product is ideal if you’re looking for protein that tastes great on its own, provides a good source of protein and contains very little fat, calories and carbohydrates per serving. That said, it does get quite expensive and it might cause bloating given that it’s whey protein.

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2. Performance Lab Sport – Best Vegan Protein Powder

Next on our list is Performance Lab SPORT. This brown rice protein powder is sourced organically and features one of the leanest and cleanest formulations in the market.

But more than that, it’s the only patented product for athletic use. It’s tested for banned substances and is safe to use for a variety of strict diets.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Patented Sport Protein Oryzatein – this Performance Lab SPORT is made using a low heat process and natural enzymes. It’s the only rice protein that rivals whey protein when it comes to effectiveness in building muscle and contains leucine that absorbs at least 30% faster into your body.

Summary: Aside from the fact that the presence of Himalayan Pink Salt can be quite confusing and unnecessary, this is also admittedly quite expensive. However, it’s lean and clean and free from any unwanted substances. It’s ideal for using even before an athletic event since it’s free from any banned substances that could get you in trouble.

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3. MyProtein Impact – Best Value

MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate caught my eye for its sheer value. It’s reasonably priced and is available in bulk sizes, which allows you to get more value out of your purchase.

What’s more, it comes in ten flavor options, including a delicious salted caramel flavor and many unflavored options that allow you to add it into your cooking or other food without worrying about the taste affecting it.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Labdoor Certified – this MyProtein is certified by Labdoor as one of the best supplements in the market. This means you can expect your best protein powder to have undergone an extensive quality assurance process, making sure you’re only getting the best with every purchase.

Summary: If you want to get the best value for your money, I highly recommend this product. It’s not only Labdoor certified, but it also contains a good source of protein with a 90% high protein content. That said, it does contain certain allergens and artificial flavorings. My best suggestion would be to opt for the unflavored option to get the most out of it.

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4. Perfect Keto Whey Protein – Best for Keto Dieters

Perfect Keto Whey Protein is formulated specifically for those following a Keto diet. It comes in three flavor options: chocolate, vanilla, and unflavored, which gives you a good enough range of flavor choices without being too constricting.

Moreover, what’s best about this Perfect Keto is that you don’t have to worry about it knocking you off ketosis. It can be an excellent supplement for your meals, or it can also act as a meal replacement if you’re adding it to your shakes.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Great Benefits and Ingredients – this Perfect Keto contains MCTs, which improve your focus and helps curb hunger. This means you’ll feel satiated longer, and you don’t have to worry about getting knocked off ketosis. Moreover, it’s made from isolate protein, which reduces the lactose content, so you don’t have to worry about it interfering with your lactose intolerance. You can find out more about keto protein powders here.

Summary: If you aren’t a fan of stevia, it would take quite a bit to mask the taste that stevia leaves in Perfect Keto. That said, if you can take the sweetness of stevia, it is ideal for those days where you need a little extra push to focus on work and curb your hunger or cravings for a few more hours.

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5. ISOPURE®

Isopure is a great choice if you’re looking for a whey protein powder with virtually no guilt. I highly recommend this Isopure for its carbohydrate content—or lack thereof, which makes it an excellent protein-rich source without the guilt. Moreover, it contains naturally occurring BCAAs and added vitamins with nothing unnecessary insight.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Lactose and Guilt-Free – This Isopure is lactose-free and contains nothing your body would be ashamed of taking. Moreover, it contains a good source of protein and zero additives that you have to worry about.

Summary: This Isopure is not only clean and a top source of protein and added nutrients, but it’s also packed with 5 grams of BCAAs per serving. This makes it ideal for anyone who wants to build muscle or lose fat fast. However, it does contain soy, artificial sweeteners and has a somewhat chalky texture.

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6. Dymatize Elite

Unlike other whey products in the market, you don’t have to worry about this one causing gassiness or bloating. It’s scientifically proven to be easily digestible for your body and easily absorbed into your body as well. This means you’ll see quicker results and fewer drawbacks.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

High-Quality Whey Protein – this Dymatize Elite contains 25 grams of pure whey protein that is fast-digesting and quick-absorbing. This means you’re likely to see results more quickly, and you don’t have to worry about feeling like a gas bubble.

Summary: Despite all the positive things I can say about this brand, the only thing you really need to watch out for is its taste. It does not taste good on its own. This might affect its convenience for you, but if you’re willing to mix it into a shake every day, then enjoy the fast-absorbing benefits of this top quality whey product.

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7. BulkSupplements Isolate 90% – Most Affordable

I have to commend BulkSupplements for constantly putting out high-quality protein sources for affordable prices. This BulkSupplements contains 90% protein content.

However, it does contain 5% lactose. I would suggest you take it if you’re looking for a highly affordable protein without skimping on the quality and if you’re not overly sensitive to lactose.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Affordable, Quality Protein – this BulkSupplements is chock full of BCAAs and contains a 90% protein. That’s quite impressive especially considering its price. It’s also soy-free, which adds to its overall value.

Summary: This BulkSupplements is ideal for anyone who wants to get a top quality protein source with added nutrients without having to break the bank. It contains 27 grams of protein-rich along with calcium, potassium and magnesium. That said, it does not mix well on its own and the container needs improvement.

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8. IDEALLEAN – Top For Women

Ideallean is ideal for any woman who wants to reach their full potential. This IDEALLEAN contains 100 calories, 20 grams of protein per 1 portion, no fat, very little sugar, and only 3 grams of carbs per serving. It’s specially formulated to meet the needs of a woman in a market heavily dominated by male supplements.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Highly Convenient – for any modern woman who needs to stay on the go, yet fully nourished, it gives you a convenient solution. It’s an all-in-one meal replacement that’s easy to shake, mix, and blend together with other beverages to keep you full and empowered.

Summary: This Ideallean is ideal for anyone who wants a highly convenient way to take their daily protein shakes. That said, it does not mix well with ice. So I recommend you dissolve it in some water before adding ice to it.

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9. VEGA ONE®

This organic all-in-one is ideal if you’re looking for a good meal replacement without any hassle. It easily mises with water, and you’re good to go. It’s full of organic and real plant-based ingredients, which adds to its overall nutrition.

Here’s why you’ll like it:

Easy to Digest – this VEGA ONE® contains 4 to 6 grams of dietary fibers per serving. This means it’s easy to digest and won’t cause you any stomach distress.

Summary: It is an ideal solution for anyone who wants  a top quality product from well-known brand. It’s also paleo-friendly protein (more on this here) It’s easy to grab and go in the morning or at any time of day when you really don’t want to be bothered with complicated blends. However, it does turn your beverages into a green or gray color.

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BONUS – Quest Protein Powder

Quest Nutrition Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts and individuals looking to boost their protein intake while maintaining a low-carb and gluten-free diet. With its enticing flavor profile and impressive nutritional composition, this protein powder has garnered positive reviews and widespread acclaim.

One of the standout features of Quest Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder is its impressive protein content, providing a substantial 24 grams of protein per scoop. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall health, making this product an excellent option for individuals looking to support their fitness goals or increase their protein intake.

Moreover, Quest Nutrition takes pride in offering a product with minimal sugar content, with just 1 gram of sugar per serving. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking to minimize their sugar intake while still indulging in a delicious vanilla milkshake flavor. By providing a satisfying taste without the excessive sugar content found in many other protein powders, Quest Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder allows users to enjoy a guilt-free treat while supporting their nutritional goals.

Additionally, Quest Nutrition has carefully formulated their protein powder to include a blend of fast and slow-absorbing proteins. This combination of 60% fast-absorbing Whey Protein Isolate and 40% slow-absorbing Micellar Casein ensures a balanced release of amino acids into the bloodstream, providing sustained muscle support and promoting muscle recovery post-workout. This unique formulation sets Quest Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder apart from other protein supplements on the market, offering users a comprehensive solution to their protein needs.

Furthermore, each container of Quest Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder contains approximately 23 servings, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for regular use. Whether used as a post-workout recovery shake, added to smoothies, or incorporated into recipes, this protein powder offers versatility and ease of use for individuals with busy lifestyles.

In summary, Quest Nutrition Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder stands out as a top-quality protein supplement that delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience. With its high protein content, minimal sugar, and unique protein blend, it provides a valuable tool for individuals striving to meet their fitness and dietary goals. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, athlete, or simply looking to support a healthy lifestyle, Quest Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder is a delicious and effective option to consider.

How To Use Low-Calorie Protein Powder For Weight Loss / Is It Safe?

Using low-calorie supplementation for losing weight is perfectly safe. Choosing low-calorie over other brands would help you get your daily dose of lean protein without having to worry about your calorie intake.

Which type of protein is best for weight loss? In my professional opinion, it’s important to keep three things in mind when you’re trying to lose fat using supplements:

• Make sure you have a balanced diet – not all products are created equal. You might think that all protein shakes will help you effectively lose fat. And in some cases, this is true. However, you need to keep in mind that if you’re using pure protein as a meal replacement, it needs to offer you balanced nutrition and not just designer protein without any other minerals, vitamins, and added nutrition.
• Follow a regulated exercise routine – it’s important to keep yourself healthy by exercising. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to head to the gym or go for a run every day. But it could be helpful to have some form of exercise even at home daily to help you lose fat faster.
• Stack different supplements – contrary to popular belief, stacked supplements aren’t just for building muscle mass. While stacking supplements is popular among weightlifters and bodybuilders, there are also plenty of supplements you can stack together to help you burn fat faster.

Summary: These are a good meal replacement or supplement to use when you’re trying to watch your cal. intake and lose fat in a healthy manner. To maximize the weight loss effects of your low cal. protein powder, make sure you buy something that is well-balanced in nutrition. You also need to follow a regular exercise routine and you can also stack supplements to help you burn through fat faster.

Benefits from Taking Low-Calorie Protein Powders

In general, it highly beneficial to your health. Not only do they help you achieve your fitness goals, but they also assist with your daily protein consumption. This makes it ideal for anyone who has a busy schedule or if you think you’re not getting enough protein from solid food.

Take a look at what makes low-calorie protein powders extra beneficial:

• Allows you to watch your calories – These are perfect for anyone who wants to watch their calorie intake. This makes it easier for you to take your meals with as little to no calories as possible.
• These are often sugar-free or low in sugar – if you’re worried about harmful sugars interfering with your health and diet, low-cal. powders are an ideal choice for you. Most of the time, it contains little to no added sugar. That said, the same effect can be achieved by using artificial sugars. Make sure you’re careful and don’t get a product that uses artificial sugars.
• Faster and healthier weight loss results – if you’re aiming specifically for fat loss, these are excellent supplements or meal replacements. It is low-cal. quality facilitates fat loss and allows your body to burn through fat faster.

Summary: These are ideal for anyone who is actively trying to lose weight or watch their cal. intake. This allows you to more easily monitor the amount of calories you take per meal without any issues. Moreover, it usually contains very little to no sugars. If you drink some pre-workout or post workout, the branched-chain amino acids can give your gym session a boost by helping to target energy directly to your muscles. However, you need to be careful of purchasing a “sugar-free” protein powder that contains artificial sugars.

User Reviews, What Customers are Saying?

We get asked this question quite a lot: what do customers have to say about low-calorie protein powders? To give you the most accurate answer, we talked to several acquaintances and professionals who use supplementation in their daily life.

I’ve also added in some of the things I’ve heard from my clients in the past regarding low-calorie protein powders to help you make a more informed decision.

• It is ideal for anyone who is following a ketogenic lifestyle. When you’re following a strict keto diet, it can be difficult to plan out meals or find supplements that won’t knock you out of ketosis. This supplementation often contains very little to no calories. This makes it ideal if you’re trying to force your body to burn more fat than calories.
• It helps you lose fat fast. Of course, it needs to be taken in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and at least a minimal form of exercise. Unlike taking a full meal full of calories, taking low-calorie protein powder as a meal replacement is not only easier for your body to digest, but it also helps you lose fat more easily. The key is to burn more calories than you’re taking in.
• Choose unflavored when you can. Unflavored protein powders will contain as few additives as possible. Moreover, they’re also more flexible. They offer a variety of uses. This means you don’t have to stick to the same flavor profiles or recipes when you’re making a protein smoothie. They can also be added to your cooking or baking if you don’t want to take them separately.
• This supplementation helps you curb your cravings and appetite. This helps you eat healthier and control your diet better.
• Make sure you buy from a reputable brand. This doesn’t always mean you have to purchase the most expensive protein supplement or most well-known protein powder out there. Just make sure you’re buying from a well-trusted brand that puts out all of the information you need.

Do Protein Powders Help You Lose Weight?

Although protein shakes seem like a healthy option to some, the health risks associated with them are more pronounced than the benefits. In general, there are two types of protein drinks: low-carb, high-protein, and pro-protein. Low-Carb Protein. To get rid of your cravings for carbs and fat, some people opt for low-carb protein shakes. However, this strategy is not a recommended option because if you use it every time you want to lose weight, your body may not be able to keep up with the protein requirement for your daily diet. This means that you will have to reduce your calorie intake to keep your hunger levels in control, which is not advisable. Also, having a low-carb diet with no protein shakes can lead to muscle weakness and make you lose strength, making it impossible to exercise effectively.

Pro-protein. Pro-protein is a mix of multiple proteins, especially whey. This type of protein is fast-digesting and therefore provides your body with enough protein without causing fatigue. Many people prefer to use pro-protein protein shakes because of the simplicity of the manufacturing process. Protein powders: What do they contain? The liquid formulation of the protein shake contains the basic ingredients that everyone needs to support the body during weight loss.

Should I Take Protein Powder if I Want to Lose Weight?

For many people, protein powder is the cure-all they’ve been looking for when it comes to dieting. The added protein is popular among weight lifters, runners, and people with diets that involve lots of protein. It’s what the everyday cardio or bodybuilder might reach for in the morning to get the day going. But can anabolic-protein powder actually help you lose weight? The answer, according to two top weight-loss experts, is maybe.

“If you are just looking to lose weight and get leaner,” says Donna Ross, a personal trainer and nutrition consultant based in New York City, “a boost of protein powder is okay, and I would still take it if it’s a quick, easy way to get more protein.” But Ross says she would never take it before a run, or if I wanted to pack on pounds. “If you just want to look great without actually having to commit to losing weight, that’s okay too. This is about enjoying your food and taking care of your body,” she says.

Where To Buy

There are many choices when it comes to purchasing any protein powder. However, if you want to get truly premium and top-quality products, it’s important to purchase from reputable retailers. It’s also a good idea to purchase directly from the company’s website.

Some popular choices are Walmart, GNC, and Amazon. I’d suggest you exercise caution when purchasing from retailers like Amazon as many unauthorized sellers peddle products that are not exactly as advertised.

Here are some key points you need to keep in mind:

• Purchase from legitimate retailers. If you’re purchasing from Amazon, make sure you’re buying from the company’s official retailer or store.
• Make sure there is a good return/refund policy in place. Shipping mishaps happen. You shouldn’t have to be stuck with an expired or tampered with product just because it was mishandled.
• One way to make sure you’re buying a genuine product is to purchase directly from the company’s official website.
• Keep your preferences in mind. Whether you’re vegan or following a keto diet, you should always keep your preferences in mind. You can easily choose a plant-based protein powder over the more popular whey brands in the market. The same can be said flavor-wise. If you want something that tastes like brownies, then go for it. Just make sure it’s naturally flavored.

Is Protein Powder Bad for Weight Loss?

Protein shakes can provide many people with their daily dietary requirement of the amino acid leucine but they can also be considered a gateway to the consumption of more unhealthy foods, as some of the ingredients in these shakes may not be healthy for you. So, what if protein shakes can be bad for weight loss? What Are the Possible Health Risks Associated With the Use of Protein Powders?

It can be hazardous to develop a blood clot if the body lacks sufficient levels of the amino acid, but experts recommend consuming food and supplements as opposed to relying on powders. Lack of iron and calcium, as well as other nutrients, is a common problem in adults who do not get adequate intake.

Is it OK to Replace One Meal a Day With a Protein Shake?

My wife, Michelle, has the metabolism of a hummingbird, and when we travel to a food-centric city, it’s hard to keep her fed. She can only eat so much, so much, and is very hungry and tired by the time we get back to Philly. The other night we were in Pittsburgh and I was chatting with a Pittsburgh Steelers fan at a bar and she mentioned a protein shake bar she’d recently tried. She claimed it was the best meal she’d had all week and she’s going to be carrying them in her suitcase on our next trip.

She’s either delusional or is convinced I’m incapable of cooking and “can’t even get scrambled eggs right” (which is something she says quite often). I don’t need protein shakes but maybe a night or two in a hotel, while we’re on a road trip, is the perfect opportunity to put some serious thought into how I could replace one meal a day with a shake.

How Much Protein Powder Should I Take?

Your body requires different protein shakes based on what your training goal is. Your goal can be to build muscle, gain strength, gain muscle mass, burn fat, or do all of the above. The Recommended Protein Powder Fit For Your Goals. For weight training, gaining muscle mass, or building strength, the goal is to get 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight. That’s about 40 grams of protein per pound of body weight. That’s what’s in nearly every protein powder. So if you weigh 170 pounds, you need 40 grams of protein.

Keep in mind that if you are working with a personal trainer, you can be getting more protein. This is because the trainer can use shakes to distribute the protein powder around you while you are training. On the other hand, if you are trying to lose weight, you need less protein.

What’s High in Protein But Low in Calories?

Opting for foods that are high in protein while being low in calories presents a nutritious challenge that can be met with a variety of healthful choices. One exceptional candidate fitting this criterion is lean poultry, specifically skinless chicken breast. Renowned for its impressive protein content, chicken breast stands out as a lean meat source, delivering a substantial protein punch without the burden of excessive calories.

Chicken breast is a prime example of a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle synthesis and repair. Furthermore, the relatively low-calorie content of chicken breast makes it an ideal choice for individuals aiming to manage their weight while ensuring an adequate protein intake. The absence of skin further enhances its nutritional profile by reducing fat content, focusing the macronutrient composition predominantly on lean protein.

Another commendable option in the realm of protein-rich, low-calorie foods is fish, particularly species like cod, haddock, and flounder. These white fish varieties boast a remarkable protein-to-calorie ratio, providing a substantial amount of protein with minimal caloric impact. Fish is not only an excellent source of high-quality protein but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health and supporting cognitive function.

For those seeking plant-based alternatives, legumes emerge as a stellar option. Lentils, in particular, offer an impressive protein content coupled with a modest caloric load. These legumes are a valuable source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients. Lentils contribute to satiety, aiding in weight management, while supplying the body with the necessary building blocks for various physiological processes.

In conclusion, achieving a balance between high protein content and low-calorie density is feasible through mindful food choices. Skinless chicken breast, white fish varieties, and lentils exemplify the fusion of nutritional excellence, offering a wealth of protein without compromising on caloric considerations. Integrating these options into one’s diet can contribute to overall health, weight management, and the fulfillment of protein requirements.

Final Words

Low-calorie products are something I can recommend to anyone who wants to live a healthier lifestyle, no matter what their fitness goals are. Over the course of my extensive work with individuals of every kind, I’ve found that the best and most reliable protein powders are often low in cal.

Of course, this means positive things for those of you who would like to keep your figures in check. Or perhaps you’re trying to lose weight or to get muscle growth.

While cal. counting is nothing new, the key to success is to burn more calories than you take. These products are offering a good supplemental option for anyone who is restricting their calorie intake.

What’s more, it’s also ideal for anyone who is following a ketogenic lifestyle or if you have underlying health issues. That’s why I’ve taken the time to test numerous brands that claim to have low-calorie content. Of hundreds of brands, I was able to narrow it down to nine of the best choices in the market.

Truth be told, any of the above-mentioned products are an excellent choice for anyone. However, I found that Transparent Lab’s 100% Grass Fed Whey is the best overall choice.

Not only does this supplement contain zero fat and only 1 gram of carbohydrates. But more than that, we commend the wide flavor options that Transparent Labs has put out. These flavors are not only delicious in their own right, but they’re also low in calorie content and flavored using all-natural ingredients like cocoa and vanilla beans.

Another brand I highly recommend is Performance Lab Sport. This is an excellent option for anyone who is looking for a plant-based protein powder that delivers results to rival that of whey protein.

It’s made from organic brown rice protein and is patented for athletic use. It’s proven to be just as effective as whey in building muscle, and it enhances your overall performance at the gym. It’s also naturally flavored, so you aren’t putting anything harmful or disgusting into your body.

Overall, following a strict low-calorie diet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on anything when it comes to the best protein powders. There are many choices in the market, and we’re confident that you’ll find the right one from the above-listed protein powders.