Best Keto Protein Powder for 2019: 9 of the Best
Table of Contents
What is the Best Keto Protein Powder for 2019
Introduction – The Benefits of Keto Protein Powders
Before we talk about the best keto protein powder for 2019, let’s step back for a minute. Protein powder appeared on store shelves in the 1950s, with keto protein powders arriving in the last decade. Due to its almost magic benefits, which we’ll touch on in a minute, protein powder has soared in popularity. It is easily one of the most frequent dieting aids around.
But why is it good for Ketogentic dieters?
On a keto diet, you want your body to reach the optimal state of ketosis. For those who don’t know what this is, it’s a kind of metabolic state in your body. All that happens, is that organic compounds, called ketones, increase in your bodily tissues. By then keeping your body in this state, many believe that you will be in a constant state of weight loss. The only snag is that in order to achieve ketosis, you need to consume high fat, moderate protein and low carbohydrate foods, which can be difficult.
Got it? Great!
So, going back to the question. Why are keto protein powders beneficial? Well, the first reason is that they contain a lot of protein (who knew?!?). By then mixing the powder into drinks and recipes, you can really help bump up your nutrition stats if you’re falling behind, help your body feel fuller for longer, and even use it as a great alternative to a sugary, carb filled snack. This will then maximize all your hard work, by providing you with better energy levels and faster weight loss.
Secondly, carbohydrates such as bread, contain a great number of amino acids that are useful to our bodies. For example, these amino acids help with muscle growth and repair damaged muscles following strength induced workouts. But since keto dieters need to keep their carbohydrate intake low, often their bodies never have access to these vital amino acids. So, keto protein powders offer a simple solution of providing these nutrients without all the added sugars.
Finally, something that can happen when you begin a keto diet, is suffering from what’s known as “keto flu”. This doesn’t usually last long but means your body is lacking important vitamins and minerals as it tries to reach ketosis. If using nutrient rich keto protein powders when you first start dieting, however, these uncomfortable symptoms such as severe fatigue and dizziness can be avoided.
Awesome! But which one should I go for?
This is where things get a little tricky.
A lot of protein powders, such as soy and rice powders, are naturally high in carbohydrates. Some manufacturers even choose to add additional carbohydrates to boost the calorie content. For example, this helps professional athletes that require a high carb diet. But they are also added for taste so that the general public is more likely to purchase them.
This then means you then have to waste time scouring online stores for 100% unflavoured, unsweetened protein powder. This can be a nightmare, as some are incredibly expensive and you can’t be sure what’s in them.
But not to fret, because we’re here to save the day! Here at The Keto Cookbook, we have searched high and low for the best keto protein powder. We have even taken everything into account (e.g. nutrition and customer reviews) so you don’t have to. But before we list the keto protein powders that are low-carb, available on amazon, and are suitable for either men or women, we’d just like to give you a bit of information on what types of powder are available.
Types of Protein Available
Whey Protein
Whey comes from milk and consists of two proteins: whey and casein. Benefits are as follows:
- It contains all nine amino acids and is particularly high in Leucine. This is important in the body’s principal muscle-building pathway.
- It is fast digesting and not a lot is needed to have an active effect.
- It is low in lactose.
Casein Protein
As mentioned previously, casein is another component that comes from milk and has similar benefits to whey protein. However, there are some extra benefits.
- It is slow digesting and so it will help you feel fuller for longer. So perfect for those trying to lose weight!
- It is particularly useful when taken at bedtime. This is because it can supply the body with enough amino acids to last through the entire night.
Egg White Protein
As suggested in the name, this protein comes from egg whites. Interestingly, it has some different benefits to those mentioned above.
- It is naturally free from dairy and carbohydrates. Great for those who have dairy or lactose intolerances!
- It has a high quantity of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCCAS). The are wonderful at reducing fatigue, accelerating workout recovery and reducing muscle soreness.
- It is moderately digesting, which means it is a good option for working around your workouts.
- Like the above, it also contains high levels of the amino acid Leucine.
Collagen Protein
Collagen is a non-inflammatory molecule that makes up about a third of our body protein. Not present in meat, it can be particularly hard to add naturally into your diet. Its benefits are described below.
- Collagen is excellent with energy production, detoxification, and digestion.
- This anti-inflammatory molecule also encourages the growth of leaner muscles
- It is vital for keeping our body tissues healthy, including our hair, skin, and nails.
Beef Protein
What do you know?!? This type of protein is derived from beef! Benefits include:
- It is suitable for those who are intolerant to dairy
- It helps build lean muscle mass
- Is effective in aiding fat loss
Plant Protein
We don’t usually recommend using plant-based proteins if you are following a keto diet. This is because they are usually very low in amino acids and don’t contain the all-important amino acid, Leucine. They also don’t have the bioavailability that the other keto protein powders have and so will not be as effective at building muscle.
As the keto diet is usually easier when consuming meat, there may not actually be many vegetarian dieters out there. However, if you want to follow The Ketogenic Diet, use protein powder, and do happen to be vegetarian with a wide range of food intolerances, this is the protein powder for you.
So! Now you know all about suitable protein powders for The Ketogenic Diet, let’s move onto the best ones on the market!
Check Out the Best Keto Protein Powders for 2019
Keto Protein Powder #1: Perfect Keto Protein Powder
The first product we think is near the top of the best keto protein powder list, is Perfect Keto Protein Powder. Remember previously when we were talking about those molecules called ketones? Well, what’s amazing is that each serving of this keto protein powder comes with 5 grams of pure MCT oil powder, which helps raise blood ketone levels and also helps your body achieve a quicker state of ketosis. As the ratio of collagen protein has a 2:1 ratio to MCT, it also means you will be provided with immediate energy, as well as getting a good dose of protein.
As this keto protein powder is collagen based, it contains anti-aging hydrolyzed protein to encourage the growth of healthy skin, hair, and nails. It contains no artificial sweeteners, colorings, chemicals or binding agents, which means it’s low carb and it’s also gluten-free!
Finally, we love this brand because of their ethical policies. For example, they only use collagen peptides from grass-fed cattle that have been bred in the USA. This means no destruction of the beautiful Brazilian Amazon Rainforest ever takes places. Perfect!
Keto Protein Powder #2: Onnit Protein Powder
Product number two on our best keto protein powder list is Onnit Protein Powder. This brand boasts 20 grams of whey isolate per serving, which means a huge amount of the protein needed for exercise recovery. It’s the whey isolate that is supposed to be better than the usually used whey concentrate, as it means the fat and carbs within the milk filter out. This then results in you being able to build the muscle and body composition you’re after, without having to consume excess sugary calories.
It has a complete amino acid profile and remember we talked about Leucine? Well, this powder boasts quick delivery of leucine to the body’s muscle-building pathway than any other protein supplement around. Impressive, right? What’s just as impressive is that Onnit protein powder only uses non-GMO ingredients. In fact, they obtain their whey from milk produced by New Zealand dairy cows, that graze on stunning green pastures throughout their entire lives.
About 87% of people who have bought this from Amazon give it a five-star review. There also seems to be a general consensus that it doesn’t cause horrific gas or bloating that seems to happen with so many other protein powders. Result!
Keto Protein Powder #3: Left Coast Keto Protein Powder
Wow! This protein powder boasts some serious benefits, which is why it’s on our best keto protein powder list. First and foremost, it tastes of chocolate. I mean who doesn’t like chocolate? Well, actually, if you don’t like chocolate, the taste is only mild so no need to worry. The mild taste also means the flavor blends well in an almond milk or keto chocolate smoothie. They do say that it is for mixing in water but has a better flavor in nut milk.
Now onto the important nutrition. This powder has been specially created for those on a Ketogenic diet and so it automatically has low sugar. Per serving it contains 3 grams of MCT powder (remember MCT is vital for raising ketone levels), only 0.4 grams of net carbs and a massive 9.6 grams of protein. Just for reference – that’s even more protein than in an egg!
What’s more, all ingredients used are non-GMO and it’s gluten AND dairy free. It contains no artificial ingredients and to be honest, just hearing about the way it’s made it amazing. It’s manufactured at a GMP facility in the USA and every single batch is made using a low-heat process. Each batch is then tested for heavy metals and impurities, so you know you won’t be putting anything dangerous in your body. Finally, it even comes in a BPA free, food grade PET plastic container.
Oh. And this quality protein is one of the cheaper ones on the list, so is great if you’re looking to save on cash. What more could you want?!?
Keto Protein Powder #4: Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder
We’re nearly halfway through our list and the best low carb protein powder coming in at number four, is Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder. Per serving of this low carb powder, there are 25 grams of 100% whey protein isolate. Remember, whey isolate is not concentrated, which means less sugar. The powder is also full of extra vitamins and minerals useful for muscle recovery. It’s also suitable for those with gluten and lactose intolerances.
It states this is the best Isopure product for muscle growth and repair, even during aging! This is because it will help you meet your daily protein goals and will help with weight management. They recommend that the optimum time for consuming the protein is either post workout, first thing in the morning or between meals.
There’s also a huge range of flavors to choose from! These include creamy vanilla, dutch chocolate, cookies and cream, banana cream, strawberries and cream and unflavoured. We’re particularly tempted by the lush sounding cookies and cream!
One thing listed in the product description is that loyal customers have noticed changes in the way the packages have been sealed. This has led them to question the quality and safety of the product. The company, however, states that everything is fine and the reason for the sealing changes are just because they are transitioning to a new state-of-the-art facility. Furthermore, all the statements it makes about the products haven’t actually been evaluated by the FDA. This isn’t usually something to worry about too much, though, it just means that the product won’t cure or prevent any types of disease.
Amazon reviews vary, with 63% being five star. The lower star reviews are because customers do not like the flavor, whereas positive reviewers say this product is revolutionary!
Keto Protein Powder #5: Ancient Nutrition KetoPROTEIN Powder
Ancient Nutrition KetoPROTEIN Powder is definitely one of the best keto protein powders. It claims it is a nutritional breakthrough and the first in its kind to deliver essential nutrients needed to instantly get into the “keto zone”.
The fat releasing ingredients of this keto protein powder are coconut MCT oil, whole food bone broth protein and organic bone broth oil, whilst ashwagandha extract and reishi mushrooms boost energy levels by making the metabolism burn fat rather than usual sugar. This makes sense when looking at the nutrition. Each 170 calorie serving contains 15 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbohydrates and 11 grams of fat to help keep your macros in check. This is also another one for those with intolerances, as it is gluten, dairy, soy, and grain free.
What’s amazing about this is how quickly you can see results. Ancient Nutrition KetoPROTEIN Powder states once you’ve stirred it into your preferred liquid, it will start working and raise your ketones in 60 seconds. It only comes in Vanilla flavor, but it’s truly a super smooth, easy to mix powder, so there won’t be any lumps.
Finally, you can even try it risk-free! If you’re not satisfied within 30 days of purchasing this keto protein powder, Ancient Nutrition will happily refund your order. Now, that’s definitely got to be a bonus!
Keto Protein Powder #6: Quest Nutrition Protein Powder
We love that Quest Protein Powder can not only be used in shakes, but it can also be used in baking too! So that’s why it comes in at number six in our best keto protein powders list. Just think, now you can eat all the delicious treats you’re craving, but in a healthier way!
It contains very minimal ingredients (including no added sugars) compared to some of the other keto protein powders, which means you can achieve maximum fat burning. For example, the only ingredients are whey protein isolated and high-quality Casein, which we mentioned just before starting our list of favorites.
Regarding the nutrition, it contains 24 grams of protein, one of the highest on the list, and only 1 gram of net carbs, one of the lowest on the list. Even though it has no sugar, unfortunately, it contains no fat, which is why the calorie count comes in at a very low 100 cals. Nonetheless, it is another powder that is gluten and soy free, so it’s only really people who are lactose intolerant that can’t consume this powder.
You’ll receive a hefty 2lb tub, but just remember the packaging may vary. So, if you do order it more than once, you might not get the same packaging every time.
Keto Protein Powder #7: Bone Broth Protein Powder
The best low carb protein powder coming in at number 7, is Bone Broth Protein Powder. It contains a source of natural collagen, which has come from grass fed, pasture raised cows. What we love about this powder though, is that is you take it as a daily supplement, it can help soothe and gut or digestive issues that can occur when you first start the transition to a keto diet. Furthermore, as it’s a collagen-based powder, it also has the wonderful anti-aging properties and will not only keep your bones & joints in check, but your skin, hair, and nails too.
Again, this product is non-GMO and free of preservative. Suitable for Paleo dieters, this homemade bone broth is the perfect powder for intolerances. Gluten, dairy, nut … you name it! It covers it! So, whatever allergy you have, you can be sure that you’re consuming a high quality, low-grade toxicity powder.
The product comes in a natural flavor and nutrition wise, it contains 17.18 ounces of anti-inflammatory superfood. One thing to mention is that the company states the powder contains naturally-occurring Glucosamine Chondroitin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Gelatin nutrients. Now although this helps to repair your tissues, it does mean the powder is hard to mix. So, for this one, you definitely need a blender. However, if you are magically strong (!) you can “try before you buy”, which is great.
Keto Protein Powder #8: Kegenix Keto Meal Replacement
We’re getting closer to the end in our search of the best keto protein powder! So, coming in at number 8, is Kegenix Keto Meal Replacement. Now this one is not a supplement powder, but as it says in the title, it is a meal replacement. The wonderful thing though, is that it’s great for weight loss. It not only claims to boost your energy, keep your mental state on top and help your muscles but suppresses appetite as well as cravings! Absolute genius!
The company state this is the first and only meal replacement product for those on a Ketogenic diet. In the past, replacement keto protein powders were a bad idea, as you want your body to always reach ketosis. But this one supports Continuous Ketone Supplementation (CKS). This means it will keep your ketone levels at an optimum state throughout the whole day! It’s also really convenient as absolutely no cooking is required.
Now the product only gets 52% of five-star reviews on Amazon, but the main complaint is poor quality taste. Now the taste is something that’s truly personal and unique to you, so there is definitely no harm in trying it. There was one case of severe cramping, but like we say, everyone is unique.
Keto Protein Powder #9: Dymatize ISO 100 Whey Protein Powder
Now onto the final product! The last supplement in our best keto protein powder list is Dymatize ISO 100 Whey Protein Powder. The reason we have chosen this particular powder is because it’s plain and simple. And with 73% five-star reviews on Amazon, that’s pretty hard to beat. To be honest, it also comes in fudge brownie flavor. Life is all about priorities people!
The product contains 1.6lbs of powder, which gives 23 good size servings. Containing from 100% whey isolate, it is scientifically proven to be fast digesting and is gluten and lactose-free. Regarding nutrition, it contains a good 25 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of BCCAAs (we previously mentioned these are good for reducing fatigue). It also contains 2.7 grams of the important muscle building Leucine and finally, 1 gram of sugar per serving.
See, plain, simple and does what it says on the tin!
If you are interested in other keto supplements, check out our article on the Best MCT Oils for Keto.
UPDATED: February 2019.
