Protein shakes are a great way to add more of the muscle-building macronutrient to your diet. And with so many different types of protein powders—from plant-based options featuring pea and brown rice proteins to classic go-to’s like whey and casein—there truly is a supplement that fits every lifestyle.
While many people often search for a protein powder that meets their needs with as few ingredients as possible, there are some cases in which a longer nutrition label means more health perks. If you’re looking for a multi-talented product, we’ve got you covered. The following protein powders pack extra benefits by combining high-quality protein with other smart ingredients that support your goals.
For an Energy Boost…
Coffee lovers will not only love the taste of Dymatize Nutrition Dunkin’ Mocha Latte ISO100 Hydrolyzed 100% Whey Protein, but they’ll enjoy a nice caffeine boost from the supplement, too. Each scoop offers 25 grams of protein from whey protein isolate plus 95 milligrams of caffeine so that your muscles and energy levels both get a kick out of your routine. Not a fan of mocha? Try the classic Cappuccino flavor, instead.
For Getting Shredded…
If you spend part of the year working double-duty in the gym to shed body fat and show off months and months of muscle gains, MuscleTech’s NitroTech Ripped Lean Protein works hard to support your efforts. Available in Chocolate Fudge Brownie and French Vanilla Swirl, this specially formulated protein packs 30 grams of protein from whey protein isolate and peptides plus a combination of l-carnitine, CLA, and coffee extract to help you with your shred. (While carnitine is known for supporting the breakdown of fats into energy, the fatty acid CLA promotes lean muscle and body fat loss, and coffee extract contains an antioxidant known for its weight and blood sugar management benefits.)
For A Side Of Collagen…
Few supplements combine popular protein sources like milk or whey proteins with trendy collagen, making Vital Protein’s Vital Performance Protein a unique option for health and fitness lovers looking to reap the benefits of both. If you want your post-workout shake to work double duty, each scoop of this powder offers 18 grams of milk protein isolate, plus 10 grams of Vital Proteins’ famous collagen peptides. Made from grass-fed, pasture-raised sources, it’s lactose-free and available in three flavors—Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla.
For A Dose Of Healthy Fats…
RYSE is all about incorporating the latest science and clinically-backed ingredients to their sports nutrition lineup and their Loaded Protein is just that—loaded. Whether you opt for the Cinnamon Toast, Chocolate Cookie Blast, or Peanut Butter Cup, you’ll score 25 grams of protein from whey protein isolate and concentrate, plus buzzy MCTs or medium-chain triglycerides (a type of quickly-absorbed fat touted for their metabolism-boosting benefits) to support a healthy metabolism and keep you feeling satiated and well-fueled.
To Get Those Greens In…
We all know how important it is to get our daily dose of leafy greens—but packing these powerhouse vegetables onto our plates is often easier said than done. Luckily, a couple of protein powders out there incorporate some of the good stuff into their formulas so that you can get more of those precious greens without even trying.
One popular option: Orgain’s Organic Protein & Greens (available in Creamy Chocolate Fudge and Vanilla Bean), which combines the brand’s beloved plant-based protein—sourced from pea, brown rice, and chia—with an organic greens powder that offers the equivalent of half-a-cup of kale and 15 spinach leaves per serving. Whether you sip it straight up with water or blend it into a smoothie, it’s a delicious way to fuel your body in more ways than one.
Garden of Life RAW Organic Protein & Greens is another classic with a dedicated following of health-conscious fans. In this formula, organic sprouted brown rice, organic pea, and organic chia proteins get a boost from organic spinach, kale, broccoli, and alfalfa juice. The raw, vegan formula offers 20 grams of protein and a slew of vitamins and minerals in each scoop. Try it in classic Chocolate or Vanilla.
To Supercharge Your Muscle Gains…
Kaged Muscle is famous for its comprehensive sports nutrition formulas—and the Re-Kaged Premium Post-Workout is no exception. If you want to maximize your gains but minimize the number of supplements you slug down after training, this protein powder packs in 28 grams of whey protein isolate plus recovery-promoting fermented glutamine, performance- and muscle-fueling creatine, and patented BetaPower (a form of betaine, which plays roles in nutrient metabolism and detoxification). With flavors like Iced Lemon Cake, Orange Kream, and Strawberry Lemonade, you’ll enjoy every muscle-boosting sip.