Dealing with a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can create a few dietary complications. Luckily, there are a few solutions to those complications, like adding protein powder to your diet. The only issue is choosing the best protein powder for you.
But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! We’ve sifted through the top protein powders out there to bring you the best six that are perfect for women with PCOS.
Overall, the best protein powder for people with PCOS is Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs. It contains no dairy, no artificial ingredients, and is sourced from PCOS-friendly ingredients like organic brown rice and organic pea isolate.
Transparent Lab's Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein Powder is an excellent choice for vegans and anyone seeking a lactose-free protein powder.
Discount codes:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
If that’s not your cup of tea, no problem! We have recommendations for a variety of tastes and digestive temperaments.
Table of Contents
The Best Protein Powders for PCOS
- Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Bone Broth Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
1. Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
Transparent Lab's Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein Powder is an excellent choice for vegans and anyone seeking a lactose-free protein powder.
Discount codes:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
Trust us, there’s a good reason why Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs is our first entry on this list. With its organic, vegan-friendly, and PCOS-friendly profile, it’s not just the best organic protein powder for PCOS, but the best overall.
It’s a standout choice, especially for those following a dairy-free diet, as it’s made with high-quality plant-based proteins, ensuring you get the protein you need without any dairy. Also, it has no added sugar, which perfectly aligns with the dietary needs of those with PCOS.
In fact, we also recommend it as one of the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs.
We’d also recommend it for those aiming for weight loss or to regulate blood sugar levels while maintaining muscle mass, as it’s low in fat and carbs.
Like all Transparent Labs products, this protein powder is third-party tested, which makes sure that it’s pure and of high quality. It contains no artificial sweeteners, making its ingredient profile even cleaner.
Organic Vegan Protein Powder is available in both chocolate and vanilla flavors, giving you a delicious way to meet your protein needs.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Protein source: Organic rice protein, Organic pea protein isolate
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
2. 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
If you're looking for a high quality, clean protein powder, Transparent Labs' 100% Grass Fed Whey Isolate is an excellent choice.
With a slew of delicious flavors and a totally transparent, clean label, this is a premium product.
Discount code:
LV10 = 10% off at Transparent Labs
When it comes to the best whey isolate protein for women with PCOS, 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs tops the list. This protein powder is third-party tested for purity, to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product. It contains no artificial ingredients, which aligns well with the need for a clean ingredient profile for those with PCOS.
One thing that sets this protein powder apart is its sweetening agent – stevia leaf extract, which is a natural sweetener. This means you can enjoy your protein shake without worrying about artificial sweeteners or added sugar, both of which can cause problems for people with PCOS.
Another big advantage of this whey protein powder is that it’s filtered to be 99% lactose-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance, another common issue among women with PCOS. Plus, it’s gluten-free and low-carb, aligning perfectly with a PCOS-friendly diet.
Let’s not forget about taste. Transparent Labs offers this protein powder in 10 delicious flavors, in addition to a handy unflavored option. This means you can enjoy a variety of tastes while getting the dietary protein you need.
All these factors make it a top choice for those managing PCOS and one of the best grass-fed protein powders on the market.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Whey isolate
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
3. Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
Egg White Protein from Naked Nutrition is a top-shelf pick for anyone seeking a clean, lactose-free protein powder.
If you’ve been on the hunt for the best egg white-based protein powder for PCOS, then look no further than Naked Nutrition’s Egg White Protein Powder.
It’s a top-notch product with only two ingredients; egg white protein from eggs and sunflower lecithin, so this protein powder is as clean as it gets. You won’t find any artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors, so it’s another perfect fit for a PCOS-friendly diet.
Sourced only from US farms, the powdered egg whites are processed within one day to maintain the highest and most complete amino acid profile. Each serving delivers a solid 25g of protein, 2g of carbs, 110 calories, and 5.8g of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), giving you maximum nutrition and solid protein intake.
To add to this, the eggs used are non-GMO, which is not incredibly common among similar protein powder supplements. Another bonus is that it’s paleo-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those following a paleo diet.
Whether you’re creating an egg white protein shake or using it in baking, this protein powder is a great way to supplement your diet while managing PCOS.
We also included Naked Egg on our lists of the best egg protein powders and the best low FODMAP protein powders.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Egg white protein powder
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
4. Bone Broth Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
For those wanting the best bone broth protein powder for PCOS, Naked Nutrition’s Bone Broth Protein Powder is an excellent choice. It’s great for women with PCOS, people who are lactose intolerant, and those allergic to eggs, as it’s free of dairy or egg proteins.
One thing that makes this protein powder stand out is its clean ingredient profile. It contains no artificial additives, only wholesome ingredients, so it can fit well into the diets of those with PCOS. It’s also low in fat and carbs, and contains no added sugar, making it a nice solution for those looking to lose weight while maintaining a solid protein intake.
Like all the Naked Nutrition products out there, this bone broth protein powder is third-party tested for optimal purity and quality. So, you won’t have to worry about putting any unnecessary additives in your body, you’ll only be getting what you need.
Some people do make the complaint that this protein powder is unflavored but this is good as it allows for versatility. You can add it to almost any drink or recipe without altering the taste, making it a handy addition to your diet while managing PCOS.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Protein source: Beef bone broth protein concentrate
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
5. Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
Squeaky clean vegan protein powder made from organic Canadian yellow peas.
Contains no hormones, GMOs, fillers, glyphosate, gums, glutes, soy, antibiotics, etc.
Want to maintain muscle mass on a vegan diet while managing PCOS? Well, that’s where Promix comes in. It’s one of the best vegan protein powders for women with PCOS on the market because it’s highly bioavailable and made from organic Canadian yellow peas. You’ll also find that it’s light and smooth-tasting, making it easy to digest and blend into your favorite drinks and recipes.
Each serving of this protein powder packs a punch with 25g of protein and 5.2g of branched-chain amino acids. And just when you think it couldn’t get any better, it provides 200% of your daily value of Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for staying healthy overall.
Promix’s Vegan Protein Powder is made from whole food-based ingredients, mainly yellow peas, which are naturally high in protein. It’s also made without hexane and enzymes, so it’ll have a clean ingredient profile. Another plus is that it’s free of gluten, soy, GMOs, and any unnecessary additives, aligning nicely with a PCOS-friendly diet.
Promix is committed to delivering seriously clean supplements and snacks, and this vegan protein powder is no exception. It’s produced in facilities using Good Manufacturing Practice standards, ensuring its quality and safety. So, consider adding this option to your PCOS diet.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 115
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Pea protein powder and brown rice protein powder
- Sweetener: Monk fruit, Coconut sugar
6. Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
This product is the very definition of an outstanding protein powder. It contains just one ingredient: 100% Organic Sprouted Brown Rice Protein and it’s free of sweeteners, flavors, and colors. GMO, soy, and gluten-free, this is our best rice protein powder for women with PCOS.
This option delivers 25g of protein, 0g of sugar, 4g of carbs, 120 calories, and 4.9g of BCAAs per serving, offering premium vegan nutrition. It’s also independently tested for metals and is melamine-free, to keep you safe!
Naked Rice is made using a hexane-free extraction process, which creates a superior amino acid profile similar to that of whey protein. This makes it an excellent source of essential amino acids, which go a long way in terms of helping you manage PCOS.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Brown rice protein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
What To Look For in a Protein Powder For PCOS
1. Clean ingredient profile
When choosing the best protein powder for PCOS, you have to look for a clean ingredient profile. This means the protein powder shouldn’t have any artificial fillers, flavors, gums, and other unnecessary additives. Many protein powders on the market are packed with these, but not all protein powders are created equal.
Go for pure protein powders that prioritize natural, wholesome ingredients. This will ensure that you’re fueling your body with high-quality protein and nothing else.
2. No artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, like sucralose and aspartame, are found in numerous protein powders. But, these sweeteners can cause stomach issues and other health problems. We’ve taken the time to review some of the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs, so make sure you check them out.
For a PCOS-friendly protein powder, it’s best to avoid these artificial sweeteners. Instead, look for protein powders that are naturally sweetened or unsweetened. Remember, you can always add a touch of natural sweetness to your protein shake with fruits or spices.
3. Little to no dairy
Dairy can be a real issue for some people with PCOS, especially those who are lactose intolerant. Whey concentrate contains lactose and should be avoided. But, whey protein isolate is a different story. Although it’s sourced from milk, 99% of the lactose has been filtered out, making whey protein isolate powders a suitable option for some people with PCOS.
Luckily, there are a bunch of lactose-free protein powders out there. Plant-based protein powders, like pea protein or rice protein, are also great dairy-free options.
4. No added sugar
In some cases, added sugar can wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels, which is particularly problematic for people with PCOS as they often struggle with insulin resistance.
So, when choosing a protein powder for PCOS, make sure it doesn’t contain any added sugars. This will help you regulate blood sugar levels and support your overall health.
5. Low carbohydrates
Lastly, a protein powder for PCOS should be low in carbohydrates. A diet high in protein and low in carbs can support weight loss and help control blood sugar levels, both of which can be beneficial for managing PCOS. While many protein powders are already low in carbs, always check the nutrition label to confirm this.
The goal is to provide your body with essential protein without unnecessary carbs, helping you manage your PCOS symptoms more effectively.
How Different Types of Protein Powder May Fit into a PCOS-friendly Diet
Whey Protein Isolate
As far as PCOS-friendly protein powders are concerned, whey protein isolate is a top contender. Take Transparent Labs Whey Isolate Protein Powder, for example. It’s sourced from 100% grass-fed, hormone-free American dairy cattle, and it boasts one of the highest protein-by-weight ratios in the industry. Plus, it’s 99% lactose-free, making it a great choice for those with PCOS who may be lactose intolerant.
Not to mention, Transparent Labs makes sure it doesn’t have food dyes, artificial sweeteners, gluten, and preservatives. And let’s not forget about the taste! Many people often feel that whey protein isolate powders taste the best, making your protein shake something to look forward to and not a chore.
Pea Protein
Pea protein is another solid choice for a PCOS-friendly diet. While peas do have a small amount of naturally occurring sugar, it’s generally not enough to affect you significantly and the overall benefits make it worthwhile.
It’s a plant-based protein, which is great if you’re trying to avoid consuming animal products. Also, it has a slightly nutty flavor that can be a nice change from the usual protein powder taste. Just remember, like with any protein powder, always check the label for any added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Rice Protein
Rice protein is an easy-to-digest, plant-based option that’s also ideal for a PCOS-friendly diet. It’s a nice alternative if you’re looking for something different from the usual whey or pea protein. But, keep in mind that some rice protein powders, especially the unflavored ones, may not be the tastiest option on their own.
Don’t let that deter you though! You can always jazz it up with some fruits or spices to make your protein shake tastier.
Egg white
Egg white protein can fit well into a PCOS-friendly diet. It’s naturally low in fat and carbohydrates, making it one of the best choices if you’re watching your calories but don’t necessarily want to decrease your protein intake. It’s easy for most people to digest, which is always a huge bonus when it comes to protein powders.
Egg white protein comes from the whites of eggs, which are a high-quality protein source. This means it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs to function properly. It likely won’t have the same creamy texture as some other protein powders but it’s a versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways, from protein shakes to baking.
Soy Protein
Soy protein is a bit of a debatable choice when it comes to integrating protein into a PCOS-friendly diet. This is because soy contains compounds called phytoestrogens, which can mimic the body’s natural estrogen.
According to some research, these compounds can help balance hormones, while other studies suggest they could potentially disrupt your hormonal balance. The effects can vary from person to person.
Given the debate and the fact that there are many other excellent protein powder options available, we generally advise avoiding soy altogether when choosing a PCOS protein powder. But, if you do choose to include soy protein in your diet, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional first.
Beef
Beef protein powder is generally well-tolerated by people with PCOS. It comes from beef, which itself is a high-quality protein that’s usually low in carbohydrates. This means it has all the essential amino acids your body needs while being free of dairy and soy, which can be problematic for some people with PCOS.
Beef protein powders can be a good choice if you’re looking for protein powders that are rich in nutrients and don’t come with the potential hormonal concerns of soy. Just remember to choose a protein powder that’s free of artificial additives and sweeteners.
Bone broth
Last but certainly not least, we have bone broth protein powder. It’s a high-quality protein that supports gut health, which is important for overall wellness and managing the symptoms of PCOS. It’s also low in carbs and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can also be beneficial for people with PCOS, as inflammation and insulin resistance are common issues with PCOS.
Bone broth protein powder is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue, then dehydrating the broth into a powder. It’s a very unique protein source that’ll give you a range of health benefits, making it a worthy addition to a PCOS-friendly diet.
What is the PCOS Diet?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a hormonal condition that can cause many symptoms, like ovarian cysts, unusual hair growth, and inflammation. People diagnosed with PCOS are also more likely to have obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.
A PCOS-friendly diet can help manage these symptoms and improve your overall health. The diet mainly focuses on consuming nutritious foods and maintaining a healthy weight.
The Mediterranean diet is often recommended for people with PCOS. This is because it offers a wide variety of foods from all categories, making it easy to follow and integrate into your life rather than just being a temporary fix.
The Mediterranean diet eliminates processed meats, saturated fats, and refined sugar, which can help with inflammation. There are other well-balanced plans that emphasize less-starchy vegetables and fruits, clean protein, healthy carbs, and low-fat dairy, which can also help PCOS sufferers get healthy and avoid complications.
People with PCOS should avoid foods that can ramp up inflammation, like fried foods, saturated fats, red meat, processed snacks, sugary beverages, alcoholic beverages, refined flour, and white rice. Instead, opt for unprocessed options.
Staying hydrated, exercising, and other healthy habits, like getting plenty of sleep and managing stress, are also important for managing PCOS symptoms.
FAQs
When it comes to the best protein powder for people with PCOS, you’ve got a few great options. Whey protein isolate, for example, is a high-quality protein powder that can be absorbed easily and only contains trace amounts of lactose.
Rice and pea protein are great plant-based protein choices, especially if you’re lactose intolerant.
Egg white protein is another good option and bone broth protein is a unique choice that has many health benefits.
There are a few things you should do your best to avoid. Whey protein concentrate can be problematic because it contains lactose. Also, avoid protein powders that have sugar, artificial ingredients, and fillers.
Artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame are a no-go and while the debate is ongoing, it might also be best to avoid soy protein powders until more research is done.
Conclusion
All the protein powders we’ve covered have their own strengths, but Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs is easily the top pick for those managing PCOS. Its clean, organic, and vegan profile meets all the requirements of a PCOS-friendly diet.
But, Transparent Labs’ 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate and Egg White Protein Powder by Naked Nutrition are strong runner-ups. They both are made from high-quality protein sources, are free from artificial additives, and cater to very specific dietary needs, which also makes them excellent choices for a PCOS-friendly diet!
