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You’ll never catch me hating on carbohydrates. When we eat carbs, our bodies convert glucose to energy—energy we need to rock those workouts and, *ahem*, survive. Still, sometimes we need to boost our protein intake without skewing our blood sugars or daily calories. And so begins our search for the best low-carb protein powder. But where do you even start with so many products on the market? You know we’ve got you covered.
The GGR team is comprised of registered dietitians like myself, certified sports nutrition coaches, competitive weightlifters and triathletes, and general fitness junkies who understand that protein supplements can be an excellent go-to if you follow a low-carb diet or need a high-protein snack between meals. The best protein powders can help support your fitness goals while keeping your nutritional intake on track. Of course, not all protein powders are formulated to offer the same results.
That’s why we look at the following factors before choosing our top picks:
- Ingredients and formulation: Does it have research-backed ingredients in clinically-recommended dosages?
- Macronutrients: Is it truly low-carb? And doe it offer at least 20 grams of protein per serving?
- Taste: Is it well-received by our testers and the general public?
- Price: Is it affordable?
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Best Low-Carb Protein Powder
- Best Low-Carb Whey Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Best-Tasting Low-Carb Protein Powder: Xwerks Grow
- Best Grass-Fed Low-Carb Protein Powder: Legion Whey+
- Best Low-Carb and Low-Sugar Protein Powder: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
- Best Low-Carb Casein Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Casein
- Best Budget Low-Carb Protein Powder: Quest Protein Powder
- Best Unflavored Low-Carb Protein Powder: Now Sports Organic Whey
- Best Low-Carb Collagen Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate Powder
- Best Low-Carb Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Plant Protein
Best Low-Carb Whey Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
Good for: Athletes who can easily digest whey protein
Best Whey Protein
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Product Highlights
- High-quality whey protein isolate
- 28 grams of protein per serving
- 15 flavors to choose from
- $1.99 per serving
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality protein
- No artificial sweeteners, food dyes, or preservatives
- Lots of flavors to choose from
- Good customer reviews
- Whey isolate may be easier to digest for some people
Cons
- Price per serving on the high end
Bottom Line
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a clean, high-quality protein powder that contains 28 grams of protein per serving.
Transparent Labs appears on many of our best-of supplements list, including best casein protein powder and best whey protein powder, because of its high-quality products and transparent manufacturing practices. Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is sourced from grass-fed, hormone-free American cows and is free from artificial ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply meet your daily macro needs, this low-carb protein supplement can support your efforts.
Every serving of this whey protein powder provides 28 grams of protein, three grams of carbohydrates, and 120 calories. It’s available in Chocolate Peanut Butter, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Strawberry, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. Our expert tester Anthony tried a seasonal flavor called Peppermint Hot Chocolate, and said all you’d need was some whipped cream and a fireplace to set the scene—he appreciates the delicious taste with the nice macro profile as well.
To use this whey protein powder, mix one scoop with 6 to 8 ounces of cold water or the beverage of your choice. You can adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired consistency. For maximum results, Transparent Labs recommends consuming 1 to 3 servings daily.
Additionally, Transparent Labs sends its products to third-party labs for quality and safety testing; and, you have access to the certificates of analysis and composition right on the website.
You can buy Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for 10% cost savings and free shipping. Each tub contains approximately 30 scoops, bringing the cost to $2.00 per serving or $1.80 per serving with subscription savings. Transparent Labs offers a 30-day return policy on all purchases. To return or exchange a product, it must be unopened. However, customer service may offer an exchange or online store credit if the product is opened.
| Cost | $2.00 per serving or $1.80 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 3 g |
| Flavors | Chocolate Peanut Butter, French Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Strawberry, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. |
Best-Tasting Low-Carb Protein Powder: Xwerks Grow
Good for: Athletes who prioritize their protein shake’s taste
Best-Tasting
XWERKS Grow
Product Highlights
- Natural, healthy, convenient, and tasty way to get protein
- Uses a microfiltration process to preserve critical biological nutrients in raw whey
- Removes unwanted fats and carbohydrates
- All flavors are naturally sweetened
- Nicely flavored, easily digested, and low-carb protein powder
- Promotes muscle growth and repair
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Keto-friendly
- Naturally sweetened
- Sourced from naturally raised grass-fed cows
- Tastes great
- Soy- and gluten-free
- Convenient
Cons
- Expensive
Bottom Line
XWERKS Grow whey protein isolate provides a solid blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in a whey protein isolate. It comes in a widely-loved range of flavors which are naturally sweetened, so they’re easily digested.
XWERKS Grow is also in the running as one of the best low-carb protein powders, and we’ve consistently named it as one of the best-tasting protein powders on the market today. This keto-friendly, low-carb dietary supplement can support muscle growth and repair and strengthen your immune system.
XWERKS sources its protein from naturally grass-fed cows that graze in the countryside of New Zealand. Is there something special about cows from New Zealand? You betcha. New Zealand holds high standards regarding dairy quality. They are extremely strict about the use of hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides.
Additionally, Grow’s grass-fed whey protein isolate has undergone micro-filtration, resulting in an almost pure protein with six grams of BCAAs per serving. This also means the product contains virtually no lactose, carbs, or fat.
But let’s get back to that amino acid profile: Every serving of XWERKS Grow includes 18 amino acids, including the ever-important essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, lysine, and more.
Every serving of Grow provides 25 grams of protein, one gram of carbohydrates, and just 110 calories. And in addition to whey protein isolate, its other ingredients include natural flavoring, xanthan gum, and stevia.
A common theme in the many positive customer reviews on the website is the protein powder’s delicious flavoring and taste. Customers praise its mixability and flavor. XWERKS Grow is available in Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, and Peanut Butter. GGR performance editor and expert product tester Anthony O’Reilly continues to come back to Grow Chocolate, as he says that it tastes exactly like a Yoo-hoo—yum.
You can buy XWERKS Grow as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for a 5% cost savings. Each package contains approximately 30 scoops, costing $1.97 per serving or $1.87 per serving with subscription savings. While it’s one of the more expensive protein powders on this list, XWERKS offers a 30-day guarantee. Plus, shipping is always free!
| Cost | $1.97, $1.87 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Flavors | Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, Peanut Butter |
Best Grass-Fed Low-Carb Protein Powder: Legion Whey +
Good for: Athletes who want flavor options and premium sourcing
Best Grass-Fed
Legion Whey+
Product Highlights
- Sourced from small dairy farms in Ireland
- Over 5 g of BCAAs per serving
- Non-GMO and animal welfare approved
- Third-party tested for banned substances
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low in carbs and fat
- Natural ingredients
- Money-back guarantee
- Made with ethically-sourced milk
- Lots of flavor options
Cons
- Comparably high cost per serving
- May be clumpy when mixed
- Some flavors have mixed reviews
Bottom Line
Legion Whey+ is a clean, sustainable protein powder that also is macro-friendly and a great option for anyone looking for a clean protein supplement.
Whey+ can be considered Legion’s version of an outstanding low-carb protein powder. Each serving provides 21-24 grams of protein and 2-6 grams of carbs, depending on the flavor. And no matter the flavor, it contains zero grams of added sugar.
Whey+ is available in Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies and Cream, French Vanilla, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Dutch Chocolate, Mint Chocolate, and Unflavored protein.
Whey+ is made with milk from grass-fed cows from small dairy farms in Ireland. It’s free from artificial flavors, food dyes, and sweeteners. Every ingredient is naturally sourced from plants and animals.
Additionally, Legions sends its products, including Whey+, to a third-party lab for purity and potency testing. Curious about what the results say? You can view the lab report directly from the Legion website. Whey+ is Non-GMO Project-certified and free from banned substances.
You can buy Legion Whey+ as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for a 10% cost savings. Each two-pound package contains approximately 30 scoops, bringing the cost to $2.00 per serving or $1.80 per serving with subscription savings. However, if you buy in bulk, the five-pound package contains 82 scoops making each serving cost $1.46 or $1.32 with subscription savings.
Not satisfied with your purchase? Legion offers a 100% money-back guarantee. Simply reach out to customer service, and they will give you a full refund on the spot— no forms or returns necessary.
Our expert tester Anthony has the Cinnamon Cereal flavor, which he likened to the milk that’s leftover after you eat a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and actually loves to bake with it as well—protein French toast, anyone? Read Anthony’s full Legion Whey Protein review for our deep dive into this protein supplement.
| Cost | 2lb package is $2.00 or $1.80 with subscription savings; 5lb package is $1.46 or $1.32 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 22-24 g, depending on the flavor |
| Carbs | 2-6 g, depending on the flavor |
| Flavors | Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Fruity Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies and Cream, French Vanilla, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Pumpkin Pie, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Dutch Chocolate, Mint Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, and Unflavored |
Best Low-Carb and Low-Sugar Protein Powder: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO
Good for: Athletes that prefer zero added sugar
Best Low-Carb and Low-Sugar
Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein
Product Highlights
- Three flavors
- 25g per scoop
- 110 calories per serving
- Under 1g of fat per scoop
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 25g of protein
- Only 110 calories per scoop
- No added sugars
- Under 1g of fat per serving
Cons
- Reviewers state the taste is not the best
- Doesn't mix well
Bottom Line
A protein powder that comes very close to being pure protein, at a reasonable price.
Jacked Factory’s Authentic ISO is made with high-quality ingredients, including grass-fed whey protein isolate, an ideal source of essential amino acids to support muscle protein synthesis. As a result, it can be an excellent way to boost your protein intake and kickstart the post-workout repair of lean muscle tissue.
Every serving provides 25 grams of protein, one gram of carbohydrates, and zero grams of added sugar. You’ll find a relatively limited list of ingredients in Authentic ISO. In addition to grass-fed whey protein isolate, it contains natural and artificial flavors, Himalayan rock salt, sucralose, and stevia extract. (Sucralose can cause bloating or other digestive problems in some people, so be aware of that.)
Authentic ISO is available in three delicious flavors: Vanilla, Oatmeal Cookie, and Chocolate Peanut Butter. GGR senior editor and expert product tester Nicole Davis has the Chocolate Peanut Butter in her pantry, and enjoys the flavor quite a bit. “It’s an almost creamy consistency mixed with milk, and I like to throw a few ice cups in it and blend it up for a sweet treat.”
You’ll mix one scoop of the protein powder with 8 to 12 ounces of cold water to consume, and each serving provides 110 calories. This powder isn’t meant to be a meal replacement, and should be used in conjunction with a well-balanced diet.
You can buy Jacked Factory Authentic ISO as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for a 15% cost savings. Each tub contains approximately 30 scoops, bringing the cost to $1.33 per serving or $1.13 per serving with subscription savings. And you can order with peace of mind knowing that Jack Factory offers a 90-day, hassle-free money-back guarantee on all purchases.
| Cost | $1.33 per serving or $1.13 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Flavors | Vanilla, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Chocolate Peanut Butter |
Best Low-Carb Casein Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Casein
Good for: Athletes who prefer a slow-digesting protein
Best Casein
Transparent Labs Casein Protein
Product Highlights
- 100% grass-fed casein protein
- 3rd-party lab tested
- Chocolate flavor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Subscribe and save 10%
- No artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives
- 3rd-party lab tested
- Transparent ingredients
- Extremely positive reviews on taste
Cons
- Only available in 1 flavor
- May be sold out
- Comparably expensive
- Limited reviews
Bottom Line
Transparent Labs Casein Protein provides 25 grams of protein per scoop and is extremely popular among users. Unfortunately, it may be sold out when you try to buy it, but you can sign up to be notified when it is available again.
Many of the protein powders on this list are whey proteins, but what about casein? Casein is a slow-digesting protein that may help you stay fuller for longer. It’s ideal for a late-night protein shake, providing amino acids throughout the night as you sleep. Enter Transparent Labs Casein.
Every serving of Transparent Labs Casein provides 25 grams of protein and only four gram of carbs. Casein is naturally higher carb than its cousin, why, and four grams is about as low-carb as you can go for most micellar caseins. There are no artificial sweeteners or additives, and the protein powder is gluten, GMO, and soy-free.
Certified sports nutrition coach and competitive triathlete Amanda Capritto says the Transparent Labs Casein gets a 5 out of 5 on taste because it tastes like a Jell-O pudding packet and makes a perfect protein pudding—you can make this by adding just a little liquid to your powder and mixing until it turns into a pudding-like consistency.
“This stuff tastes damn near like Jell-O chocolate pudding out of the little plastic tubs when mixed to mimic pudding,” Amanda says. “It’s so good! I actually crave this.”
We would like to see additional flavors offered, and maybe even an unflavored option, but we won’t complain too much. Additionally, the 4.5 out of 5 solubility was one of the finest we tried when it came to the more than 12 casein powders we tested.
Additionally, you can buy the protein powder with peace of mind knowing it has been tested for heavy metals and banned substance—the Informed Choice certification lets us know it’s safe for all athletes.
| Cost | $1.99 or $1.79 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Flavors | Chocolate |
Best Budget Low-Carb Protein Powder: Quest Protein Powder
Good for: Athletes who want the most bang for their buck
Best Budget
Quest Nutrition Protein Powder
Product Highlights
- Made with fast- and slow-absorbing proteins
- Contains 9 amino acids
- Sweet flavors help curb cravings
- Complete proteins help keep you full
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low in carbs
- Comparably affordable per serving cost
- Balanced for workouts
Cons
- Contains sucralose
- Contains soy
- Thick texture
Bottom Line
With plenty of great flavors, Quest Nutrition Protein Powder is a great option for those who get bored of the same flavor of proteins.
Every serving of Quest Nutrition’s protein powder provides 20 to 26 grams of protein and 1 to 7 grams of carbs, depending on your chosen flavor. Available flavors include Vanilla Milkshake, Chocolate Milkshake, Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, and Cinnamon Crunch. To note, the Cookies and Cream flavor has the highest carbohydrate content at 7 grams per serving.
Quest uses a protein blend of whey protein isolate and micellar casein. Micellar casein is a slowly digestible protein, and research indicates it can cause a prolonged post-prandial increase1 in plasma amino acids, meaning it’s digested more slowly than whey protein and may help increase feelings of fullness and satiety. Quest Protein Powder is gluten-free, but contains some soy ingredients due to recent formulation changes.
In addition to its impressive nutrition profile, we found it to be the most affordable low-carb protein powder on the list. You can buy Quest Protein Powder as a one-time purchase or set up a delivery subscription for a 10% cost savings. Additionally, it is offered in various-size containers.
Each 1.6-pound tub contains approximately 23 scoops, bringing the cost to $1.65 per serving or $1.49 per serving with subscription savings. The 3-pound tub contains about 43 servings, bringing the price to $1.30 per serving or $1.17 per serving with subscription savings.
However, you can also buy the protein supplement in bulk. A two-pack of the three-pound tub contains 86 servings, each costing $1.16 or $1.05 with subscription savings. Talk about budget-friendly. Amazon also tends to give you the best price on Quest protein powder, so check there as well.
Unfortunately, there’s no mention of third-party testing for potency or purity. But Quest Nutrition offers a generous 90-day guarantee. So if you’re unhappy with your purchase, you have 90 days to request a replacement or a refund.
Read our full Quest protein powder review where we analyze all the ins and outs of this supplement.
| Cost | $1.05-$1.65 per serving, depending on the container size and subscription savings |
| Protein | 20-26 g, depending on the flavor |
| Carbs | 1-7 g, depending on the flavor |
| Flavors | Vanilla Milkshake, Chocolate Milkshake, Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, and Cinnamon Crunch |
Best Unflavored Low-Carb Protein Powder: NOW Sports Organic Whey
Good for: Athletes who don’t want the same flavor shakes daily
Best Unflavored
NOW Sports Nutrition Organic Whey Protein
Product Highlights
- A classic unflavored protein powder
- Certified organic and antibiotic-free product
- Get up to 19 g of protein per serving
- Includes vitamin D, iron, calcium, and potassium
- All natural ingredients with no artificial sweeteners
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable price compared to others
- It does not contain rBGH or antibiotics
- A soy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO product
- No artificial colors, flavors, additives, or nano-particle nutrients
- Packaged and made in the USA
- Easily mixed and dissolvable powder
- Includes vitamin D, iron, calcium, and potassium
- The amino acid profile is listed clearly on the bottle
Cons
- The supplement is not FDA-approved
- Some reviewers didn't enjoy the unflavored taste
- Produced in a facility that handles common allergens
Bottom Line
The NOW Sports Organic Whey Protein Powder is an excellent and affordable option with a low-key unflavored taste and up to 19 grams of protein in every serving without using gluten or soy.
NOW Sports Organic Whey protein powder comes in one flavor, or does it? It’s unflavored. Is that technically a flavor? Anywho, its unflavored flavor caught our eye…or our tastebuds. Very few companies offer an unflavored, low-carb protein powder, and we think this one takes the title. GGR head of content and expert product tester Kate Meier said that while this powder does have a distinct taste if you drink it plain, mixed with other liquids or in a smoothie, you can’t taste it.
Each NOW Sports Organic Whey serving provides 19 grams of protein and just one gram of carbohydrates. The only ingredient is organic whey protein concentrate, made from organic milk and produced without synthetic growth hormones, antibiotics, or pesticides.
The organic protein powder has been awarded several certifications, including USDA Organic and Informed-Sport Certified. And since it’s unflavored, it can be mixed into any number of beverages without significantly changing the taste. For example, mix one level scoop into eight ounces of cold water, juice, milk, or smoothies.
Each serving provides 100 calories, so it should not be used as a meal replacement shake. Instead, it should be used with a well-balanced diet of whole foods.
Each one-pound tub contains approximately 19 scoops, costing $2.10 per serving. Unfortunately, there isn’t an option to set up a delivery subscription, so you’ll need to remember to order your next tub in time. It’s a real kick in the shins when you make your protein shake, only to find an empty tub.
| Cost | $2.10 per serving |
| Protein | 19 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Flavors | Unflavored |
Best Low-Carb Collagen Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate
Good for: Athletes who want to support more than just their muscle mass
Best Collagen
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate
Product Highlights
- No artificial sweetener, colors, or preservatives
- Formulated with grass-fed bovine collagen peptides
- Claimed to help eliminate visible signs of skin aging like sagging and wrinkles
- Made with minimal ingredients
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Worldwide shipping
- A good amount of positive reviews
- Easily mixable in cold or hot beverages
Cons
- Only 10 g of protein per serving
- Low doses of collagen compared to other brands
- Doesn’t include vitamin C, which can help with absorption
- Only comes in 1 flavor
Bottom Line
Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate is a collagen rich in type I and type III collagen peptides made without artificial sweetener, colors, or preservatives.
Another low-carb protein powder we’re big fans of is Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate. This type of protein source isn’t marketed toward building muscle mass (as it’s not a complete protein), but instead supporting healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints. And let me tell you—we believe it. Certified sports nutrition coach and GGR senior staff writer Amanda Capritto has used it for a month and is a big fan of the company’s transparency.
Amanda says it’s not wise to mix it with water—she describes the taste a “watered-down chocolate milk”—but says it’s a great addition to any milks (including almond), greens powders, or coffee. This is also the only collagen powder we tested that got a 5 out of 5 on solubility. “This dissolves so well it’s a little scary,” Amanda says.
Every serving provides 11 grams of collagen sourced from bovine hide collagen peptides. The only other ingredients are natural flavors, cocoa powder, and stevia—Transparent Labs is so transparent they tell you the weight of each ingredient right on the bottle. There are only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
| Cost | $1.16, or $1.05 with subscription savings |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Flavors | Chocolate |
Best Low-Carb Vegan Protein Powder: Vega Sport Plant Protein
Good for: Athletes who follow a plant-based diet
Best Vegan
Vega Sport Premium Protein
Product Highlights
- Multi-source vegan protein powder
- NSF Certified for Sport, vegan, and gluten-free
- Includes BCAAs, probiotics, and tart cherry
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 30 grams of protein per serving
- Contains all essential amino acids but two that are made by the body
- 5 flavor options
- Supports recovery with tart cherry, probiotics, and turmeric extract
Cons
- Customers share new formula doesn’t blend well
- Pricey at over $2 per serving
Bottom Line
The Vega Sport Protein has mixed reviews on taste and blendability, but a higher protein content than most other vegan protein powders.
We haven’t forgotten about our vegan friends. Let’s talk about the delicious protein powder that is Vega Sport Premium Plant Protein. Every serving of Vega Sport provides a whopping 30 grams of protein and five grams of BCAAs, sourced from pea protein, sunflower seed protein, pumpkin seed protein, and alfalfa protein. And with only four grams of carbs per serving, it wins our choice for the best low-carb vegan protein powder.
It has more calories per serving than other low-carb protein powders, but contains other beneficial ingredients, including tart cherry and probiotics to support muscle recovery and aid digestion, respectively.
RELATED: Best Vegan Protein Powder
It’s available in five flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Mocha, Berry, and Peanut Butter. Our expert product tester Anthony tried Mocha, and while he isn’t normally a fan of plant-based protein powders, he thought this one was decent—that’s saying something!
While I’m not vegan either, I usually keep Vega Sport Plant Protein stocked in my pantry—the vanilla flavor, to be exact. This is because I’m a big fan of its nutrition profile, taste, and texture. However, I don’t usually rely on Vega Sport for its low-carb properties, so I mix it in a smoothie with fresh fruit.
If smoothies aren’t your jam, Vega recommends mixing one scoop of the protein powder in 12 ounces of ice-cold water or any other non-dairy beverage in a shaker cup. Vega recommends drinking the protein shake 30 to 60 minutes after your workout for the best results.
The plant-based protein powder is available in three sizes: large tub, XL tub, and single packs. The large tub contains 19-20 scoops for $3.24 per serving, while the XL tub contains approximately 45 scoops for $2.48 per serving. The box of 12 single packs runs $42.69, a significant upcharge for the added convenience of ready-to-use packs.
The coolest part of the whole thing? Vega plants a tree for every order placed with them, no matter what size you choose. Yay, mother nature! And if you’re not satisfied with the product, Vega offers a 30-day guarantee.
| Cost | $2.48-$3.55, depending on the container size |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbs | 4 g |
| Flavors | Vanilla, Chocolate, Mocha, Berry, and Peanut Butter |
Other Low-Carb Protein Powders We Researched and Tested
While we tried to include products that addressed the many important aspects of choosing the right protein supplement for your needs, we know that our list is not the end-all-be-all. Here are a few other low-carb protein powders that we researched:
- Naked Casein: Naked Casein is a casein protein powder that only contains one serving: micellar casein. Because of that it has zero grams of carbs. So why didn’t we include it on our list? Our testers found the unflavored version had a slight “protein” taste, though it was easily masked with sweeteners or spice (like Pumpkin Pie spice) and we can’t confirm that it’s third-party tested.
- Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate: Swolverine’s Whey Protein Isolate provides 26 grams of protein and just one gram of carbohydrate per serving. It’s available in four flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate Milkshake, Mint Chocolate Chip, and Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter. While we like this protein, we prefer the consistency of Transparent Labs’ whey isolate.
- SEEQ’s Clear Whey Isolate Protein: This is a unique protein supplement that doesn’t have a milky texture like many others. It provides 22 grams of protein and one gram of carbohydrate per serving. It’s available in flavors such as Blue Razz Freeze, Mango Pineapple, and Watermelon Wave, and it’s best mixed with water. We also really like SEEQ, but find it less versatile than other protein powders on this list.
- Isopure Zero Carb: Isopure’s Zero Carb protein powder provides 25 grams of protein and 0 to 1 grams of carbohydrate per serving, depending on the flavor. It’s available in Banana Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, Creamy Vanilla, Dutch Chocolate, Strawberries and Cream, Toasted Coconut, and Vanilla Salted Caramel. Unfortunately, many of the flavors were unavailable for purchase when this article was written.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Low-Carb Protein Powders
It’s always our goal to provide our readers with unbiased, evidence-based reviews of the products we test. This list of low-carb protein powders is no exception. We started by researching reputable nutrition supplement companies, only reviewing products from companies known for their quality and safety standards.
Then, we searched for protein powders that offered a low-carb-to-protein ratio. Finally, we narrowed down the list to include only protein powders that provided at least 20 grams of protein per serving and went from there.
Of course, we also prioritized the ingredients list to avoid those lacking research backing. We considered the types of protein used, as well as their sources. And to take it one step further, we tried to find supplements that have undergone some quality and safety testing, preferably by an independent lab.
Our readers come from all different backgrounds and are pursuing a wide range of fitness goals. So, we searched for various products that offer unique benefits. There’s something for everyone!
Benefits of Low-Carb Protein Powders
While low-carb protein powders may not be the right supplement for everyone, they can offer a wide range of benefits if used in conjunction with a well-balanced diet. Low-carb protein powders may:
Support Weight Loss
Low-carb diets2 are becoming a popular strategy for weight loss. While the initial results typically stem from water loss, fat loss can occur with adherence to the low-carb routine. Low-carb protein powders help you meet your protein needs without skewing your carbohydrate intake or overall daily calories.
Help Burn Fat Stores
When our bodies run out of glucose stores, they will typically rely on fat to serve as the energy source we pull from. Low-carb protein powders help us meet our protein needs without creating a surplus of glucose stores. Regular intake of low-carb protein powders may even help get rid of stubborn belly fat.
Support Your Metabolism
Research indicates that low-carb diets may help support fat and carbohydrate metabolism,3 especially when combined with regular exercise.
Dosing and Interactions
Protein supplements are kind of like the last piece of the puzzle when it comes to well-balanced nutrition. We all have unique nutrition needs and no two protein powders are the same. Consider working with your registered dietitian nutritionist to calculate your estimated protein needs and determine where a protein shake fits into your diet.
RELATED: Best Protein Shakes
Once you find the right protein powder for your needs, follow the dosing instructions on the product’s label unless otherwise directed by your doctor or dietitian. Monitor your tolerance and adjust your servings accordingly. Furthermore, if you’re trying to follow a low-carb supplement routine, avoid mixing your protein powder with carbohydrate sources like milk, fruits, and yogurts.
Third-Party Testing
We’re big fans of third-party testing. And I mean—HUGE fans. Third-party testing ensures that quality and safety standards are met, giving customers confidence in the products they choose. Of course, not all products on this list are tested by an independent lab, so keep that in mind when shopping. Third-party testing is particularly important for athletes in competition.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Low-Carb Protein Powder
The nutrition supplement market is overflowing with brands and products, but how do you know which product is right for you? No two bodies are the same, and we all have unique health and wellness goals. What’s the right protein powder for me may not be the right protein powder for you. So what do you need to look for in the best low-carb protein powder?
Protein-to-Carbohydrate Ratio
When it comes to a low-carb protein powder, I like to look for a product that offers at least 20 grams of protein per serving. I also like to look for a product with a carbohydrate content less than 25% of its total calories. Many on this list are well below that threshold.
Third-Party Testing
Third-party testing ensures that a company’s safety and quality claims are supported. If possible, look for companies that send their products to independent labs for testing after production. Many companies will test for heavy metals, allergens, and other potentially harmful components.
Ingredients
Consider looking for low-carb protein powders that contain minimal ingredients. The primary focus of a low-carbohydrate protein supplement is to consume high-quality protein without skewing your other macronutrient numbers, particularly if you’re following macros for weight loss. Minimal ingredients ensure that protein is the supplement’s primary benefit.
Cost
Protein powders are part of a broad market with a wide range of prices among the many options, anywhere from about $1 per serving upwards up $2 per serving. Since protein powders are designed to support a well-balanced diet, you may find yourself relying on one frequently. Find a protein powder that fits your budget.
FAQs About Low-Carb Protein Powder
Which protein powder has the least amount of carbs?
On this list, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and Naked Nutrition’s Naked Casein have the lowest amount of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the best protein powder to use on a keto diet?
If you’re following a ketogenic diet, a low-carb protein powder can be an excellent way to meet your daily protein goals without over-consuming carbohydrates. Many different protein powders can be considered keto-friendly, but products with zero grams of carbs can make it easier to balance your nutrients. You might also consider keto protein powders that can easily mix with fat sources like peanut butter.
Are low-carb protein shakes good for you?
Low-carb protein shakes can be a healthy addition to your well-balanced diet. However, it’s important to remember that protein supplements should not regularly act as a meal replacement.
What is the best protein powder for weight loss and diabetes?
The best protein powder for weight loss and diabetes is one that receives the stamp of approval from your doctor and registered dietitian. Keep your medical history in mind and look for a protein powder that accommodates your needs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
References
- Trommelen, J., Weijzen, M. E. G., van Kranenburg, J., Ganzevles, R. A., Beelen, M., Verdijk, L. B., & van Loon, L. J. C. (2020). Casein Protein Processing Strongly Modulates Post-Prandial Plasma Amino Acid Responses In Vivo in Humans. Nutrients, 12(8), 2299. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12082299
- StatPearls Publishing. (2023, January 10). Low carbohydrate diet. NCBI bookshelf. Retrieved April 9, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537084/
- Macedo, R. C. O., Santos, H. O., Tinsley, G. M., & Reischak-Oliveira, A. (2020). Low-carbohydrate diets: Effects on metabolism and exercise – A comprehensive literature review. Clinical nutrition ESPEN, 40, 17–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.07.022
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