It’s a bit of a catch-22 trying to find an expert-approved protein powder that’s both low-calorie and free of sugar substitutes. Food and supplement companies use sugar substitutes to reduce the carb and calorie count, so there’s more room for the good stuff. While many of us don’t mind slurping down some sucralose in the name of accurate macro counting, others actively avoid artificial sweeteners. (We do have a roundup of the best sugar-free protein powder, though, if you’d like to peruse.)
These sweeteners are manufactured compounds designed to mimic the taste of sugar without delivering the same number of calories as sugar. As a dietitian, I’m not entirely against them, as they can help improve the quality of life of certain populations, such as those with diabetes.
However, I can understand the preference for keeping artificial sweeteners out of your diet, just like I understand those who avoid added sugars altogether. Therefore, I set out to find the best protein powders without artificial sweeteners.
The GGR team of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, registered dietitians, and elite athletes has tested over 140 protein powders. We also consulted with GGR Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD. We rated each protein powder according to our supplement testing methodology, scoring them on a scale of 1 to 5 on factors such as:
- Cost per serving
- Formulation
- Taste and solubility
- Side effects
- Third-party testing and transparency
In 2024, we helped nearly 14,000 consumers find a protein powder that suits their health and wellness needs. We can help you find yours, too.
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 Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners
- Best Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Isolate
- Best-Tasting Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Legion Whey+ Certified Grass-Fed Irish Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Naked Nutrition Naked Whey
- Best Vegan Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
- Best Budget Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Wellah Protein Your Whey
- Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Momentous Grass-Fed Whey
- Best Organic Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Orgain Organic Grass-Fed Whey
Best Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners Overall: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Good for: People who want both a lack of sugar substitutes and a lack of fillers
Our testers love Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate because we know exactly what’s in it, and almost every flavor we’ve tried is a 5 out of 5 on taste. Yes, it’s a little more expensive than other protein powders but you get what you pay for.
Transparent Labs is a brand known for its high-quality, clean, and third-party-tested sports nutrition supplements. Their grass-fed whey protein powder is non-GMO, made with natural ingredients, no artificial sweeteners or food dyes, and is gluten-free.
Former GGR Performance Editor Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC, drank Transparent Labs grass-fed whey protein powder for a month and was a huge fan. He says, “As other customers have reported in reviews, I did not experience any digestive issues with this protein powder like I have with others in the past.”
RELATED: Best Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs
We gave the protein powder a rating of 5 in taste after our team tried the Peppermint Hot Chocolate around the holiday season. Based on Anthony’s feedback, we also gave it a 5 out of 5 for solubility. “When mixed with milk or water, it mixes very well, and I feel full for quite some time afterward,” Anthony adds.
Transparent Labs Whey Isolate also gets a 5 out of 5 for third-party testing and a 4.5 rating for formulation, with a whopping 28 grams of protein per serving. Certified by Informed Choice, the label shows the weight of each ingredient it includes for full transparency. There are only five natural ingredients and it’s sweetened by stevia.
That said, we gave a 3.5 out of 5 for price, as $1.99 is a bit high for the market average compared to other protein powders our team has reviewed. However, it’s worth mentioning third-party tested protein powders are minimally processed and, therefore, a bit more expensive.
Interested in learning more about Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate? Check out our full Transparent Labs Protein review for more.
| Price per serving | $1.99 |
| Flavors | Milk Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, Strawberry, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, French Vanilla, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie |
| Protein per serving | 28 g |
| Ingredients | Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate, Peanut Flour, Cocoa Powder, Natural Chocolate Flavor, Sodium Chloride, Stevia Extract |
Best-Tasting Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Legion Whey+ Certified Grass-Fed Irish Whey Protein Isolate
Good for: Those who want an indulgent flavor from their sugar-free protein powder
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. Many of our testers have bought this with their own money because they love the taste and easy mixability.
What our tester says:
“It tastes like the milk at the bottom of a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch.”
Quite a few members of team GGR are loyal to Legion Athletics, especially Legion’s grass-fed whey protein powder, because of their top-notch flavors. With 16 flavors ranging from Banana Bread to Cinnamon Cereal—our personal favorite—we had to crown it as the best-tasting protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
Our expert team rates Legion 4.5 out of 5 in taste after trying the Cinnamon Cereal flavor, which intends to give you both a hit of essential amino acids and a nostalgia for Cinnamon Toast Crunch. “Kind of tasted like when you first start eating a bowl of cinnamon toast crunch and the cereal hasn’t had a chance to fully incorporate into the milk yet,” says certified personal trainer and former GGR Performance Editor Anthony O’Reilly
We also gave a 4 out of 5 for solubility. “I got some clumps when using a shaker bottle to mix Legion’s protein powder,” Anthony explains.
Legion’s formulation got a 4 out of 5. Even though this protein supplement contains all-natural ingredients, some flavors have a longer ingredient list than other powders on our list. Those ingredients include xanthan gum and sunflower lecithin, which “can cause digestive issues in some people,” Anthony rightly points out.
Lastly, Legion Whey+ Certified Grass-Fed Irish Whey Protein Isolate is $1.99 per serving before taxes, so we gave it a 3 out of 5 for cost. Though we appreciate the high-quality ingredients and lack of proprietary blends, it’s a relatively high price for a protein powder that’s not third-party tested by globally recognized supplement testing programs like Informed Choice.
That said, be sure to check out our full Legion Whey Protein review. Anthony even shares his protein French toast recipe, which you can make without artificial sweeteners!
RELATED: How To Mix Protein Without a Shaker
| Price Per Serving | $1.99 |
| Flavors | Dutch Chocolate, Cinnamon Cereal, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored, Chocolate Hazelnut |
| Protein Per Serving | 22 g |
| Ingredients | Whey Protein Isolate, Natural Flavors, Stevia Leaf Extract, Sea Salt |
Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Naked Nutrition Naked Whey
Good for: People wanting a clean whey protein with minimal ingredients
Naked Nutrition Naked Whey is a great natural protein powder if you are looking for a clean protein option. All of the flavors are free from artificial ingredients, GMOs, artificial sweeteners, and fake food dyes.
What our tester says:
“The Unflavored variety truly tastes like nothing. Plus, there is no weird aftertaste or texture.”
Naked Nutrition takes the top spot of best whey protein without artificial sweeteners with their Naked Whey: A minimal whey protein concentrate with minimal ingredients. Their unflavored protein powder only has whey protein concentrate, but their other flavors are sweetened with organic coconut sugar. The minimal, clean ingredients earn the protein powder a 5 out of 5 for its formulation.
For those wondering if whey protein concentrate is OK to use instead of whey isolate, a 2016 study1 showed that both types of whey are efficient in helping build muscle and improve muscular strength. The main difference is that whey concentrate contains more lactose, fat, and carbohydrate content than whey isolate, something to be mindful of if your goal is weight loss or if you’re sensitive to lactose.
RELATED: Whey Protein Isolate Vs Concentrate
GGR product tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC, tried out the unflavored version of Naked Whey and rated the taste a respectable 4 out of 5. “It truly tastes like nothing,” says Anthony, “not even a weird aftertaste.”
Anthony also rates the solubility a 4 out of 5. “It mixes great, but I noticed there’s an alarming amount of foam at the top that looks like the whey has separated again. It’s only after vigorous shaking, though.” Nevertheless, Anthony says the unflavored protein is great to put in baked goods, like protein pancakes—just make sure to adjust the ratio of wet-to-dry ingredients.
Available in 1-, 2-, and 5-pound tubs, Naked Whey’s price can vary, with the unflavored whey costing as little as $1.25 per serving; still, some flavors approach $2 per serving. With a minimal ingredient list that’s backed by an Informed Choice certification, we think it’ll be worth the cost for many people and athletes.
You can read more in our Naked Whey Protein review.
| Price per serving | $1.25-$2 |
| Flavors | Unflavored, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, Double Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla |
| Protein per serving | 25 g |
| Ingredients | Whey protein concentrate, organic coconut sugar, organic natural flavors |
Best Vegan Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
Good for: Those who want a dairy-free protein that actually tastes good
Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake has 20 grams of protein per serving and 150 milligrams of chlorine (to support brain and nervous system function).
What our tester says:
“I tried this two ways – in a blender cup with water, and in a smoothie with strawberries and blueberries. Even just with water, this has a nice taste.”
Ritual is a bit of an unconventional protein supplement in many ways. For one, you must sign up for a monthly membership (and monthly shipments) to purchase. Second, this protein powder is a certified non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free pea protein made from organic yellow peas.
RELATED: Pea Protein Vs Whey
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, and GGR senior director of content tried Ritual. Vanilla is the only available flavor, so that’s what she went with and gave this reason for her 4 out of 5 taste rating:
“It doesn’t taste too ‘plant-like’ like the flavor most plant-based protein powders tend to have. I would actually be okay drinking it with just water instead of milk, but the aftertaste does remind me of chalk just a bit.” She gives a perfect 5 out of 5 for solubility, however.
“No floaters and it dissolves completely,” says Kate, who tried the plant-based protein in some fruit smoothies, along with just a shaker. “I was shocked at how good the consistency was for a dairy-free protein. It’s not too thick but not too watery even when mixed with water.”
RELATED: Plant-Based Protein Powder Benefits
We did give it a 1 out of 5 for price, though, based on our GGR testing criteria. The average price per serving is between $1.25 and $2, so lower scores are given to powder more than $1.90 per serving. Ritual is $2.66 per serving, and you don’t get to choose your flavor, so the rating is low.
If you’re wondering if pea protein powder is worth it, studies have shown it has very similar leucine content2—one of the BCAAs most responsible for muscle growth—to whey protein. It’s also a great option for those sensitive to lactose.
We also gave Ritual a 5 out of 5 formulation, as the protein powder supplies 8 grams of essential amino acids. Additionally, if you’re like me and aren’t a fan of the aftertaste of stevia, you’ll take comfort knowing Ritual uses monk fruit extract as a sweetener.
Finally, we gave it a score of 5 out of 5 for third-party testing. Kate adds “It’s rare to find a sports nutrition supplement that’s tested by both Informed Sport and NSF for Sport!”
If you want to read Kate’s full experience with Ritual, read our Ritual Protein Powder review.
| Price per serving | $2.66 |
| Flavors | Vanilla |
| Protein per serving | 23 g |
| Ingredients | Organic pea protein, Natural flavor, Organic coconut medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, Xanthan gum, Salt, Sunflower lecithin, Reb-M (from fermented sugarcane), Mixed tocopherols, Organic monk fruit (Luo han guo) extract |
Best Budget Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Wellah Protein Your Whey
Good for: Those looking to save money on a high-quality protein powder
Wellah’s Whey Protein contains only 5 ingredients and provides 20 grams of protein per serving. It is an affordable protein option at under $1.50 per serving but it also doesn’t contain as many grams of protein as many competitors. There are limited but positive customer reviews. Some customers were frustrated that the advertising was not clear about soy being present in the vanilla flavor.
What our tester says:
“It has a vanilla flavor that’s more on the milder side, but there is a slight ‘protein powder’ taste as well. It’s enjoyable overall, though not the best I’ve ever tasted.”
For those looking for a high-quality protein powder that won’t break the bank, Wellah Protein Your Whey is an excellent choice.
This high-quality whey protein isolate with minimal ingredients and no artificial sweeteners is very affordable at $1.00 per serving, earning a 5-out-of-5 for value.
The formulation earns a 4.5 out of 5. We docked half a point because we’d prefer to see at least 24 grams of protein instead of 20, but we love the simple ingredient list that’s free of fillers and artificial ingredients.
We couldn’t find third-party testing, which we prefer to see to verify the purity and ingredients, but that’s our only call out.
GGR SEO analyst Emil Thomas tested this product and rated the flavor a 3.5 out of 5, though we know taste is subjective. She said, “As far as the taste goes, it has a vanilla flavor that is more on the mild side and not overpowering. The drink did not leave a bad aftertaste and was overall enjoyable, although maybe not my favorite on the market.”
Emily also rated the solubility a 4 out of 5, noting a minor drawback that led her to dock a point.
“While the protein powder did not really taste grainy or gritty, you can see some granules left on the side of the glass after sipping,” she said.
However, with high-quality ingredients at such an affordable cost, we still love this whey isolate that’s completely free of artificial sweeteners.
| Price per serving | $1.00 |
| Flavors | Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, Coconut |
| Protein per serving | 20 g |
| Ingredients | Whey protein isolate, natural flavors, Himalayan rock salt, stevia |
Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Momentous Grass-Fed Whey
Good for: People who want a whey protein that’s easy on their stomach
If you are willing to pay a premium price for a high-quality grass-fed whey protein, the Momentous brand is a solid choice. It is cold-pressed and put through a micro-processing filtration that’s supposed to preserve the protein’s amino acid profile. While we cannot confirm that, we know it tastes darn good and did not upset any stomachs during testing.
Momentous makes their whey protein in collaboration with sports performance specialists and registered dietitians. The milk they use is sourced from European, grass-fed cows and is cold processed, which theoretically protects the protein from denaturing.
Caine Wilkes, a GGR senior staff writer and Olympic athlete, gave Momentous a 4 out of 5 for taste after trying the vanilla. “When mixed with only water, it doesn’t have any flavor,” Caine says. “It tastes a lot better with milk, like vanilla bean ice cream, and requires no effort to mix for a good consistency.”
That said, he gave the powder a perfect 5 for solubility.
“It mixes completely in a shaker cup with no grit or clumps,” Caine says.
RELATED: Should You Mix Your Protein Shake with Milk or Water?
For formulation, we gave it a 4. It’s relatively low-calorie because of the low content of carbs and fats. The highlight, however, is the digestive enzymes. Momentous contains Prohydrolase, a cocktail of digestive enzymes that help the gut break down amino acids for smoother digestion.
A study conducted in 20203 showed that ProHydrolase did increase levels of amino acids more quickly compared to the placebo in those who are active and lift weights. Theoretically, it’s posited that this could help enhance muscle recovery, but more research is needed.
Momentous does cost $2.70 per serving which makes it the most costly protein powders on this list, so we had to give a rating of 1 for price. There are also only 24 servings per bag, so plan accordingly if you’re used to a full month’s supply.
Check out our full Momentous Essential Grass-Fed Whey Protein review.
| Price per serving | $2.70 |
| Flavors | Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate |
| Protein per serving | 20 g |
| Ingredients | Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate, ProHydrolase |
Best Organic Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Orgain Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder
Good for: Individuals looking for an organic protein powder without artificial sweeteners
Orgain Grass-Fed Whey Protein rates highly for taste and solubility from our testing team. While the $2 price-per-serving is also solid, you may be able to find it cheaper elsewhere. Be aware that this protein powder contains stevia and is higher in carbohydrates than other options on this list.
GGR expert tester Anthony O’Reilly, CPT, CNC, gave Orgain Organic a 4.5 out of 5 for price. At $2 per serving—oftentimes closer to $1.50 on Amazon—the price per value seems great for a certified organic protein powder with no artificial sweeteners. As for taste, he gave a 4.5 out of 5, stating, “The vanilla is just okay. Nothing offensive, but nothing to write home about either.”
The feedback for solubility was similarly lukewarm. “Some clumps floated to the top, but nothing crazy,” so Anthony gave it a 4 out of 5 for solubility. For the formulation, we gave it a 3.5 out of 5 rating, and hoo boy, there’s some stuff to unpack here.
For starters, you need two scoops to get to 21 grams of protein, which could inspire dread in those sensitive to lactose or whose stomachs can’t handle a large volume of protein powder. Furthermore, the primary protein source in this powder is whey protein concentrate, which has a higher lactose content than isolate.
One serving also contains 11 grams of carbohydrates, which could cause a bigger spike in blood sugar compared to other protein powders. Finally, Orgain whey is sweetened with both stevia and sugar alcohols, specifically erythritol.
While both are technically natural sweeteners, the latter can have some side effects as sugar alcohols aren’t completely digested by the small intestine4. This means as the bacteria in your gut tries to break them down, bloating and gas may occur.
| Price per serving | $2 (may find cheaper elsewhere) |
| Flavors | Creamy Chocolate Fudge, French Vanilla |
| Protein per serving | 21 g |
| Ingredients | Grass Fed Whey Protein Concentrate, Organic Erythritol, Organic Creamer Base (Organic Acacia, Organic High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Organic Inulin, Organic Rice Dextrins, Organic Rice Bran Extract, Organic Rosemary Extract), Natural Flavors, Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Sea Salt, Potassium Chloride, Organic Stevia |
Other Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners We Researched
- Klean Athlete Klean Isolate: This one is very expensive, but we like the formulation a lot.
- Truvani Plant Protein: One of our favorite-tasting plant-based protein powders, but again, it’s very expensive at about $2.50 per serving.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners
If you’re reading this, it’s a safe bet that you’re looking to keep your intake of artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes low. So, we took that into account, along with some other factors, when compiling this list.
Other Artificial Ingredients
If our readers are looking for a protein powder without artificial sweeteners, they probably wouldn’t trust us too much if we gave them a list of protein powders full of fillers, additives, and other artificial ingredients. So, we wanted to be sure the brands we chose kept these ingredients to a minimum.
RELATED: Protein Powder for Recovery
Trusted Brands
“Choosing a well-known protein powder brand and checking with a doctor can help you ensure it’s safe for your health,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.
As part of our mission, we strive to recommend brands that aren’t just well-known in the fitness industry but are trusted for their integrity and ability to deliver high-quality products. As a team of dietitians, trainers, and athletes, we have personally used all of the products listed, so we know first-hand what we’re recommending and wouldn’t pass along a product we didn’t believe in.
Protein Content
Though we’ve debunked the myth5 that the body can only absorb 20 grams of protein at a time, there’s still a benefit to choosing a protein powder containing 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving.
Not only can it make your protein intake more efficient if you’re trying to hit certain macros, but the reason that myth came about in the first place is the misinterpretation of studies that have shown that 20 grams of protein is where the pathway for maximal muscle building begins6.
Third-Party Testing
Though it’s not a requirement to choose a third-party tested protein powder, we’d like to say that that’s our preference if all things are ideal. Even if a protein powder isn’t third-party tested, dietary supplements with transparent labeling and no proprietary blends tend to be more reliable in terms of safety and potency.
Benefits of Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners
Whether you’re going for weight loss or better muscle recovery, or you just want a low-calorie protein source without sugar substitutes, there are plenty of benefits. Let’s look at a few reasons to take protein powder without artificial sweeteners.
Better for Sensitive Stomachs
Though the science is far from conclusive, some research shows that zero-calorie sweeteners may negatively impact your gut health, especially if you already have a sensitive tummy. Thus, unflavored protein and protein without artificial sweeteners are a much better option. Lactose-free protein powder is a good thing to try if you have this issue.
Less Aftertaste
If you’ve ever had a drink with the common sweeteners saccharin and aspartame, you know they have a pretty sharp and noticeable aftertaste. This means that even if you choose your favorite flavor, it might still be an unpleasant drinking experience.
Though sweeteners like sucralose taste a little close to cane sugar with much less of an aftertaste, it’s still a manufactured sugar, and it’d be cheating to include it on this list.
Appetite Control
“Protein powder can help fill you up, especially if you’re trying to lose weight and need an overall reduction in calories,” says exercise physiologist and registered dietitian Chris Mohr.
However, foods with too much refined sugar, cane sugar, and corn syrup tend to spike blood glucose, which can throw off your hunger cues later in the day. They also just aren’t generally good for wellness when taken in excess. Because many people take supplements like casein protein powder to prevent overeating (especially during weight loss), taking a protein powder with a lot of added sugar defeats the purpose.
Shelf-Stable and Portable
One of the many beauties of protein powder is that you can store and carry it nearly anywhere. This is important as many food sources of essential amino acids, like eggs, cheese, seafood, and poultry, usually need to be refrigerated. However, having a portable source of protein that you only need to add water to makes protein intake more convenient for busy adults on the go.
Helps Meet Protein Needs
According to Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, “Protein needs vary based on several factors, like age, gender, activity level, and overall health. The recommended dietary allowance is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. Those who are active or want to build or maintain muscle as they age might need 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram.”
However, these high protein needs can be difficult (and expensive) to meet through food alone.
RELATED: Mass Gainer Pros and Cons
This is where protein powder comes in. Mix unflavored protein powder in your food, make protein smoothies for breakfast, or have protein shakes before bed to boost your numbers. Whichever way you choose to fit it in, drinking protein powder is much easier than eating a meal with an equal amount of protein.
Dosing and Interactions
Dosing for your protein powder should be as directed by the label, unless you’re advised otherwise by a registered dietitian or other healthcare professional.
Very high doses of protein powder can cause several side effects, such as intestinal distress, acne, nausea, thirst, bloating, and headaches. Protein powder is generally safe, but as GGR’s Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta says, “Some people, like those with kidney problems, allergies to dairy or soy, or sensitive stomachs, should be careful when consuming protein powder. Some brands might have adverse additives in them. Pregnant or nursing individuals should also talk to their doctor before using a protein powder supplement.”
Third-Party Testing
The third-party certification of protein powders isn’t necessary, but it can provide extra protection and is always our first pick.
The brands that proudly bear the seal of third-party testing also inform you that an impartial source has tested their protein powder and has found that it is free of heavy metals, banned substances, or other harmful ingredients. Some of which may have been added accidentally during processing or added intentionally.
RELATED: High-Protein Foods For Muscle-Building
If you’re an athlete who has to submit to drug testing, it’s recommended you only choose third-party tested supplements of any kind, not just protein powder, to limit your exposure to ingredients that may be harmful to your overall wellness.
Buying Guide: What To Look For in Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners
Want to shop for a protein powder without zero-calorie sweeteners? Here are some other things to look out for while you’re on the hunt:
Sugar Content
If you think artificial sweeteners are bad, wait until you hear about sugar. Hundreds of studies have shown the association between sugar and chronic inflammation7 in the body.
The reason this is important is that chronic inflammation leads to chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes if it gets bad enough. While a little sugar here and there is fine, if you plan on chugging your protein powder copiously and often, it could start to take a toll.
RELATED: Best Low-Sugar Protein Bars
Presence of Sugar Alcohols
Most of us have already heard of aspartame (aka Nutrasweet or Equal), saccharin (Sweet’N Low), and sucralose (Splenda). However, fewer are familiar with the likes of xylitol and erythritol which are technically not artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners have zero calories, but sugar alcohols have about 2.6 calories per gram, meaning that products that use sugar alcohols can still claim to be “sugar-free” but not calorie-free.
As mentioned, these products can cause serious GI distress if taken in excess, which is why I caution my athletes against consuming them before any type of performance, especially a competition. However, natural sweeteners like monk fruit and stevia extract do not have the same effects.
Protein Source
Whey protein isolate is probably the most commonly consumed form of protein supplement in various forms, be it protein bars, protein shakes, or even protein chips. However, we realize it’s not the best option for everyone, especially those who can’t handle lactose.
RELATED: Best Protein Chips
So, we wanted to choose protein powders for a variety of diets and digestive systems. This means choosing la actose-free protein powder that contains sources of protein that still deliver the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and maintenance.
Price
A clean protein powder that’s free of artificial sweeteners, fillers, and additives can come at a price—literally. It’s an unfortunate truth that higher quality means higher cost. Though powders full of maltodextrin and corn syrup are more affordable, this may also mean they’re lower quality and, in some cases, have less protein.
While protein powder is hardly a superfood, it’s likely going to be something you’ll be ingesting often. So, it’s important to keep the price per serving low so you don’t break the bank in the name of gains.
Experts Who Contributed to This Article
Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: FAQs
Which protein shake does not have artificial sweeteners?
Plenty of shakes on the market don’t contain artificial sweeteners. The protein powders on our list are a great place to start, but having a good understanding of protein powder labels can help you avoid sweeteners when shopping for other brands as well.
Which whey protein has no artificial sweeteners?
Here are some of our favorite whey protein powders that don’t have artificial sweeteners:
Best Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Isolate
Best-Tasting Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Legion Whey+ Certified Grass-Fed Irish Whey Protein Isolate
Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Naked Nutrition Naked Whey
Best Vegan Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
Best Budget Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Wellah Protein Your Whey
Best Whey Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Momentous Grass-Fed Whey
Best Organic Protein Powder Without Artificial Sweeteners: Orgain Organic Grass-Fed Whey
What protein shakes have the cleanest ingredients?
Clean protein shakes contain zero or very few fillers, artificial flavors or sweeteners, and other ingredients that are not backed by science. After years of researching and testing 100+ protein powders, we identified these as some of the cleanest on the market:
Best Clean Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Best-Tasting Clean Protein Powder: Legion Whey+ Certified Grass-Fed Irish Whey Protein Isolate
Best Clean Protein for Athletes: Wellah Protein Your Whey
Best Clean Collagen Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Collagen Hydrolysate
Best Organic Clean Protein Powder: Ora Organic Daily Superfood Plant Protein
Best Clean Plant-Based Protein Powder: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
Best Budget Clean Protein Powder: Nutricost Whey Isolate
Best Clean Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Huel Complete Black
Best Clean Vegan Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein Powder
Best Clean Casein Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Micellar Casein Protein Powder
Best Clean Whey Protein Powder: Momentous Essential Grass-Fed Whey Protein
Which protein powder is best without side effects?
Most protein powders won’t cause you any noticeable or harmful side effects. However, some protein supplements may not be appropriate if you suffer from allergies or sensitivity to the ingredients, such as lactose or dairy. In this case, it’s best to simply avoid these ingredients.
RELATED: Whey Protein Side Effects
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
- Naclerio, F., & Larumbe-Zabala, E. (2016). Effects of Whey Protein Alone or as Part of a Multi-ingredient Formulation on Strength, Fat-Free Mass, or Lean Body Mass in Resistance-Trained Individuals: A Meta-analysis. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 46(1), 125–137. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-015-0403-y
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