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5 Best Low Carb Protein Powder 2024: Top Brands Reviews
Updated on
- Written by Mitchelle Morgan, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by
Dr G. Michael DiLeo, MD
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Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
- Clean ingredient label.
- Supports muscle development.
- Three flavors are available.
Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+
- Allergen-free.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Plant-based protein powder.
$12 on orders 25+ and free shipping Coupon: HEALTH12
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Isolate
- Pure whey protein isolate.
- Tested for banned substances.
- Delicious flavors.
People use dietary supplements for specific health goals, e.g., weight management, brain boosting, energy enhancement, or growth in lean muscle mass. Low-carb protein powders may help with some of these goals.
This article will highlight these low-carb protein powders, what they contain, how they work, and more. Additionally, we cover five of the best low-carb protein powders on the market: their pros, cons, selling points, and a brief insight into each product.
The best low-carb protein powders consist of high-quality protein sources, such as whey protein isolate or plant-based proteins, with minimal added sugars and artificial ingredients.
5 Best Low Carb Protein Powder On The Market In (April. 2024)
- Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Editor’s Choice
- Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+ – Best For Mental Health
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Isolate – Best For Muscle Recovery
- Vega Sport Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder – Best For Muscle-Building
- MuscleTech Nitro-Tech – Best For Enhanced Physical Performance
5 Best Low-Carb Protein Powders For Weight Loss In 2024
Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality protein supplement that claims to aid in weight loss and muscle growth and for accelerating the healing process after exercise, too.
- High-quality protein source.
- Supports muscle development.
- Rapidly absorbed and digests easily.
- Optimizes lean muscle development.
- Contains artificial sweeteners.
- Contains milk.
- Unsuitable for vegetarians.
Made from ultra-pure grass-fed whey protein isolate, this protein powder is a natural protein source rich in essential amino acids. This supplement, made to help regenerate lean muscle tissue, has 25 grams of natural protein and 1 gram of carbs.
One of the key benefits of this protein powder is that it is rapidly absorbed and digests easily. Your body can utilize the protein more effectively, supporting lean muscle development, enhancing recovery, and increasing strength. This supplement is manufactured in the United States in certified good manufacturing practices, i.e., cGMP.
The pure and clean protein powder has minimal carbs, sugar, fillers, or fat content. It is available in three delicious flavors: Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Vanilla, and Chocolate Peanut Butter.
The Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a bit expensive, at $49.99, but it is worth it for the high-quality ingredients and research-backed formula. If you’re looking for a complete stack, you can also stack it with the creatine monohydrate and the Nitro Surge Pre-workout from the same brand at $119.97. This product comes with a 100% hassle-free money-back guarantee.
Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+
$12 on orders 25+ and free shipping Coupon: HEALTH12
With its potent blend of plant-based protein powder; Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+ claims to reduce stress-related cravings while boosting muscular strength and recovery.
- Natural and plant-based.
- Reduces stress cravings.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Supports mental health.
- Full ingredients list is not disclosed.
This product is available in Berry, Chocolate, and Vanilla for those looking for a lightly, naturally sweetened, and natural protein powder. It promotes healthy body composition and fat metabolism and reduces stress-induced food cravings.
It is vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo, dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free. It’s also USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, and manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility.
This product contains three proprietary blends:
- Organic Seven Seed Blend: Made from superfood seeds like pumpkin,[1] flax,[2] chia, hemp, sunflower, watermelon, and sacha inchi,[3] it is packed with powerful ingredients that are hard to get in your everyday diet.
- Energizing medium-chained triglycerides and balancing adaptogens: MCTs are high-quality fats easily absorbed for clean energy. The MCTs are sourced from coconut and paired with organic cordyceps[4] and reishi[5] — two time-tested adaptogenic mushrooms known for their ability to help you cope and get rid of stress.
- Ashwagandha: This organic, scientifically researched ashwagandha[6] source has been shown to support mental clarity, healthy energy, and a positive outlook.
This protein powder costs $44.95 and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+ is an excellent option for those looking for a natural, plant-based protein powder.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Isolate
Not all protein powders are the same. Look no further than Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Isolate for a high-quality protein supplement to build muscle and aid post-workout recovery. This premium whey protein isolate is made with only high-quality ingredients.
- High-quality protein.
- Low carbs.
- Gluten-free.
- Banned substances tested.
- The blends have milk and soy.
- Contains artificial sucralose.
The benefits of this supplement are muscle-building, recovery, and weight management. Available in two delicious flavors — Chocolate Bliss and Rich Vanilla — it is ideal for those looking for a tasty and effective muscle-building supplement.
Each serving contains 25 grams of protein, 5.5 grams of naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids, and 1 gram of carbohydrates, excellent for those following a low-carbohydrate diet.
The gluten-free product has been banned substance tested, meaning you can feel comfortable and safe knowing what you’re putting into your body. It is also easy to digest and has high bioavailability, which is great for fast muscle recovery. The only concern is the fine print stating it does not contain a significant source of unhealthy fats. Optimum Nutrition does not define significant, but unless you’re an absolute purist, it’s probably not important.
Sucralose may affect gut microbiome[7] and glucose levels.
At $46.99, this protein powder is in line with the typical price range for premium protein supplements. The brand suggests consuming enough protein to meet your daily protein requirements with a combination of high-protein foods and protein supplementation throughout the day as part of a balanced, low-carb diet and exercise program.
So, if you’re looking for a high-quality, delicious, and adequate protein supplement, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Isolate is worth checking out.
Vega Sport Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder
Vega Sport Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is a vegan and non-GMO protein powder that is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option for muscle-building and post-workout recovery.
- Budget-friendly price.
- Plant-based protein.
- Gluten-free.
- Supports muscle-building.
- Limited flavor options.
- Higher carbs than other brands.
Vega Sport Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is a complete protein supplement designed to help you rebuild after even your most strenuous workouts. With 30 grams of plant-based protein per serving, this supplement is packed with essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
These protein powders offer about 6 grams of net carbs, higher than competing brands; nonetheless, it has 0 added sugars. Additionally, it contains tart cherries for taste and 5 grams of BCAAs, essential for muscle growth and repair.
It has three delicious flavors: Peanut Butter, Vanilla, and Chocolate. Vega Sport Protein Plant-Based Protein Powder is a gluten-free supplement for athletes seeking a low-carb powder. It is one of the best protein powders on the market and suitable for those following a low-carbohydrate diet while wanting massive gains in the gym.
This protein powder is budget-friendly at $39.79 — cheaper than others. Additionally, it is suitable for those who have a keto diet, and the brand offers recipes, which is helpful for a newbie.
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech
MuscleTech Nitro-Tech is a scientifically engineered whey protein for building lean muscle, increasing strength, and improving performance. It claims its blend is 70% better than others’ whey, making it ideal for boosting workouts and achieving fitness goals.
- Tasty and effective.
- Low-carb, low-sugar.
- Budget-friendly.
- Free shipping.
- Contains milk and soy.
- Contains traces of allergens.
- Contains sucralose.
This low carb low-sugar protein powder is perfect for those looking to build muscle while on a strict diet. Available in four delicious flavors — Triple Chocolate, Vanilla Cream, Strawberry, and Cookies and Cream, this supplement is both tasty and effective.
It retails at a budget-friendly price of $34.99, and with free shipping on orders over $20, it’s easy to make Nitro-Tech your regular supplement. With a 30-day return policy, it’s a no-brainer!
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein, 3 grams of creatine[8] monohydrate, 6.8 grams of BCAAs, and 5 grams of immunomodulatory glutamine.[9]
This protein powder has the Nitro Amino Matrix, a blend of essential amino acids, including L-leucine,[10] L-isoleucine, and L-valine. These amino acids[11] are known for supporting muscle growth and recovery, an ideal addition to any muscle-building supplement.
Additionally, it contains a proprietary blend of isolate protein and peptide blend with whey protein isolate: 97% whey protein isolates and whey peptides. This is a high-quality, easily digestible form of protein ideal for muscle growth and repair.
This protein powder is scientifically engineered, contains no underdosed ingredients or fillers, and is fully disclosed, which gives you maximum transparency for maximum results.
What Is Low Carb Protein Powder?
A low-carb protein powder dietary supplement is a convenient and effective way to increase your protein intake while limiting your carbohydrate intake. Typically they include protein and essential amino acids.
Protein
All the best low-carb protein powders are made with high-quality protein sources derived from animal products that are low in carbohydrates and fat. Examples are whey protein isolate, casein protein, egg white protein, collagen, and beef protein isolate.
Plant-based protein powders are made from various plant-based sources such as hemp, pumpkin, alfalfa, and pea protein isolate. They are typically lower in carbohydrates and fat than animal-based protein sources.
Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, necessary for muscle growth and recovery. Low-carb protein powders often include other essential amino acids present in their ingredients to support muscle recovery and growth.
Other ingredients may include cocoa powder, natural or artificial sweeteners, and flavors. Added ingredients improve taste and texture and sometimes provide additional nutritional benefits.
Some low-carb protein powders use a blend of protein sources, such as combinations of whey protein isolate, egg protein powder, casein, and milk protein isolate, to provide a complete amino acid profile.
For example, a low-carb chocolate peanut butter protein powder may contain:
- Whey protein isolate.
- Peanut flour or peanut butter.
- Cocoa powder.
- Natural or artificial sweeteners.
- Essential amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
Who Should Use Low-Carb Protein Powder?
While bodybuilders and athletes seek to build muscle and improve performance, reducing the intake of carbs may also be used for someone on a weight loss journey.
By limiting carbohydrates, the body is forced to burn stored fat for energy instead of relying on the glucose from carbohydrates — a process called gluconeogensis.[12] This can lead to weight loss as well as other health benefits.
There are several ways a low-carb protein blend may help you lose weight:
- Reducing calorie intake: Reducing your carbohydrates also reduces your overall calorie intake, which can lead to weight loss.
- Increasing satiety: A higher protein intake tends to be more satiating[13] than carbohydrates, so low-carb diets that include protein help you feel full and satisfied with smaller portions, which can help you lose weight.
- Improving insulin sensitivity: Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and promotes fat storage. A low-carb diet improves insulin sensitivity,[14] leading to weight loss.[15]
- Boosting metabolism: Burning fat for energy increases the production of ketones,[16] which may boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
A low-carb diet is not suitable for everyone, and neither are low-carb protein powders. Therefore, consult a healthcare professional before adding any of the following five to your wellness routine.
Benefits Of Low Carb Protein Powder
Here are some of the health benefits that the above powders offer the human body:
- Low carbohydrate content: Low-carb protein powders are a great option for people trying to lower total carbohydrate intake. Fewer carbs than in others make them a good low-carb choice.
- High-quality protein: Low-carb whey protein concentrate is often made from whey concentrate as isolates, a high-quality source of protein easily absorbed. They are also easy to mix, making them an excellent choice for making the best low-carb protein shakes ready to drink.
- Better digestion: Many low-carb protein powders contain digestive enzymes, which help to break down and facilitate muscle protein synthesis. This can lead to better digestion and less bloating.
- Additional health benefits: Some low-carb protein powders are fortified with essential B vitamins, herbal extracts like monk fruit extract, vitamins, and minerals, which can help support energy metabolism and overall health.
- Great for weight loss: Lower carbohydrates in your diet can help you lose weight. A low-carb protein powder for weight loss can significantly add to a weight loss plan.
How We Choose The Best Low-Carb Protein Powder
Since not all protein powders are made the same, selecting the best from a wide pool is never easy. Here are the criteria we used to choose the above that you should use as a checklist to find the best for your low-carb protein shakes.
- Quality of ingredients: You should carefully evaluate the quality of ingredients used in each protein powder, ensuring they are made from high-quality sources of protein and other nutrients.
- Protein content: Prioritize protein powders that have a high protein content per serving, as this is one of the main reasons people use protein powders in the first place.
- Taste and texture: Consider the taste and texture of each powder, as some people may find certain flavors or textures more palatable than others. Some flavors you should try include vanilla ice cream, chocolate cacao, and creamy chocolate fudge.
- Additional nutrients: Look for protein powders that contain extra nutrients, such as collagen peptides, which are beneficial for skin, hair, and nails, or egg white protein powders, which are high in essential amino acids.
- Carbohydrate content: Prioritize powders with lower carbohydrate content, as these are typically more suitable for those following a low-carb diet or for someone who wants to lose weight.
- Variety of protein sources: Consider the type of protein sources available in each powder, such as whey protein isolate, collagen peptides, brown rice protein, egg white protein powders, etc.
- Brand reputation: Check out the brand’s reputation before making any decisions, ensuring that the company has a history of producing high-quality products.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Low-carb protein powders are generally considered safe when used as directed. However, as with any supplement, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of before you start taking them. No matter the brand or flavor you use, you need to be mindful of specific side effects like:
- Digestive issues: Gas, bloating, or diarrhea when consuming large amounts of protein powder.
- Allergic reactions: Hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- Interactions with medications: Some can interact with certain drugs to cause side effects.
- Overconsumption: Consuming too much protein powder can lead to weight gain, kidney damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Final Thought
You might be tempted to use a vanilla cinnamon-flavored protein powder from a brand of your choice, but do you know what the supplement is best for? Not all powders are made the same, so always match your needs with the appropriate powder.
The five brands we have highlighted make the best low-carb protein shakes for weight loss, muscle-building, post-workout recovery, and overall health. Consult a registered dietitian before purchasing and read the label carefully for dosage and ingredients before using. Consult your doctor if you have a medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take up to six weeks to feel and see the results of a high-quality protein powder.
Low-carb protein powders with low carbohydrate content are ideal for a low-carb diet.
Yes, they are. They contain the same essential amino acids and additional ingredients that facilitate muscle-building, minus the extra carbs.
Yes, it is, as long it’s manufacturer- and doctor-approved. Those with kidney disease, and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should not use it.
You can use soy protein to help you lose weight, boost energy, or build muscle. Soy protein isolate may also manage your hormone balance and lower your risk of breast cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis.
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Written by:
Mitchelle Morgan, Health Writer
Medically reviewed by:
Medically reviewed by:
