Trying to find the perfect protein powder can be quite a challenge, especially when you’re over 50 and your body’s needs may be different.
With all those flashy packages and buzzwords, it’s hard to settle on one that’s just right. But, no need to worry, we’ve got your back!
In this guide, we’ll break down the seven best protein powders for men and women over 50, and give you some handy insights.
Our top pick?
The best protein powder for men and women over 50 is 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate from Transparent Labs. It contains 28 grams of whey isolate, is easy to digest with less than 1% lactose, and is naturally sweetened with stevia. It contains no artificial ingredients and is third-party tested to ensure purity.
Oh, and did we mention it’s tasty? Because it’s available in eight delicious flavors.
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
But there’s a lot more, so let’s dive in!
Related:
- Best Protein Powder for Seniors
- Best Low FODMAP Protein Powder
- Best Protein Powder for PCOS
- Best Cheap Protein Powder
Table of Contents
- 1 The Best Protein Powder For Men Over 50 and Women Over 50
- 1.1 1. 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- 1.2 2. Essential Protein Powder 50+ – Ritual
- 1.3 3. Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- 1.4 4. Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- 1.5 5. Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- 1.6 6. Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- 1.7 7. Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- 2 Benefits of Protein for Men and Women Over 50
- 3 What are the Different Types of Protein Powder?
- 4 Advantages of Using Protein Powder as a Protein Source
- 5 What to Look for in a Protein Powder for Men and Women Over 50
- 6 FAQs
- 7 Conclusion
The Best Protein Powder For Men Over 50 and Women Over 50
- 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- Essential Protein Powder 50+ – Ritual
- Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
1. 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
Let’s kick things off with the best overall whey protein powder for men and women over 50; 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate. Transparent Labs are widely known for producing high-quality products in general but this product is easily one of the best grass-fed protein powders on the market. It’s third-party tested for purity, to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product.
Also, it contains no artificial ingredients and is sweetened with stevia, so it’s a much healthier choice than most of the protein powders out there. With over 20 grams of protein per serving and no added sugar and extra carbs, you’ll be able to get adequate protein, while supporting weight loss and muscle growth.
Plus, it contains less than 1% lactose, making it easy for most people to digest.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Whey isolate
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
2. Essential Protein Powder 50+ – Ritual
Best Subscription Protein Powder for Men & Women Over 50
Ritual is a well-rated supplement brand with a commitment to using high-quality ingredients in their products, and that’s why we had to have their Essential Protein Powder 50+ on our list.
The main reason why we picked it is because it’s the best protein powder subscription for men and women over 50. Subscriptions save you the hassle of having to go back to the shop or make repeat orders online, so they’re highly convenient for those with busy lifestyles.
Also, because it has no added sugar and is sweetened with calorie-free monk fruit and Reb-M, it’s a healthy choice. Like our first entry, it’s third-party tested and has a traceable ingredient supply chain, ensuring quality and transparency.
The addition of calcium HMB supports bone density and helps you retain muscle mass. Plus, it’s one of the best lactose-free protein powders out there, so it’s easy to digest. At $44 for a one-time purchase or a convenient $40 per month subscription, it offers great quality and value.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Protein source: Organic yellow peas
- Sweetener: Reb-M, monk fruit
3. Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
Best Organic Protein Powder for Men & Women Over 50
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
The Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs is the best organic protein supplement for men and women over 50. It has no added sugar, low fat, and low carb content, so it’s great for maintaining a balanced diet.
As you would expect from Transparent Labs, it’s also third-party tested to ensure you’re only consuming what your body needs. There are over 20 grams of protein per serving and, being lactose-free, it’s easy on the digestive system.
The downside with this product is that it does contain 260 mg of sodium per serving, so you’ll have to keep an eye on your overall daily sodium intake and how much protein powder you use at a time. You’ll find this tasty organic choice available in both chocolate and vanilla flavors.
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
4. Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
Best Casein Protein Powder for Men & Women Over 50
For those who prefer slower absorbing protein, the casein protein from Transparent Labs is a great choice. It's an excellent choice to help you feel full longer during the day or aid muscle repair over night.
Discount code:
LV10 = 10% off order at Transparent Labs
Yes, we know, it’s another Transparent Labs product but trust us, it’s here for a good reason. Their Casein Protein Powder is one of the best in its category, offering a solid 25 grams of protein per serving with no added sugar or artificial ingredients. You likely already know, this is the best casein protein powder for men and women over 50.
And yes, this product is also third-party tested for quality and purity.
Because it’s a slower-digesting protein, it can help control appetite by keeping you full for longer. Plus, it’s an excellent source of calcium, providing 60% of your recommended daily allowance, which is crucial for maintaining bone health as we get older.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Instantized micellar casein protein
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract
5. Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
Best Egg White Protein Powder for Men & Women Over 50
Egg White Protein from Naked Nutrition is a top-shelf pick for anyone seeking a clean, lactose-free protein powder.
Egg White Protein Powder by Naked Nutrition is a simple, clean protein source for over 50s. It’s low in fat and carbs, making it a great choice for those looking to lose weight. As the best egg white protein powder for men and women over 50, it also has no artificial additives or added sugar, so it’s as close to natural as it gets.
It’s also lactose-free, has 25 grams of protein per serving, and is put through rigorous tests to ensure its quality. While it’s only available unflavored, this can make it a very versatile addition to any shake or recipe.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Egg white protein powder
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
6. Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
Best Vegan Protein Powder for Men & Women Over 50
Squeaky clean vegan protein powder made from organic Canadian yellow peas.
Contains no hormones, GMOs, fillers, glyphosate, gums, glutes, soy, antibiotics, etc.
Are you an over-50 following a vegan diet? Then Promix’s Vegan Protein Powder is the best protein powder for you. It’s dairy-free, making it a great choice for both those with lactose intolerance and those following a vegan diet.
As the best vegan protein powder for men and women over 50, it’s only sweetened with monk fruit and contains no artificial sweeteners, so it’s a very healthy plant protein. It’s also low in fat and carbs and third-party tested for quality assurance. You’ll get a nice 25 grams of protein per serving, to support your protein needs.
Plus, it’s available in unflavored, vanilla, and chocolate.
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
7. Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
This is one of the best rice protein powders for men and women over 50 on the market. Made from brown rice, this Naked Nutrition product is an awesome plant-based protein option that’s dairy-free and easy to digest.
Like most of the powders we’ve mentioned, it has no added sugar and is in both fats and carbs, giving you a nice balance. It also packs a solid 25 grams of protein per serving.
It’s only available unflavored, which may be a dealbreaker for some but bear in mind that this makes it a versatile option. Plus, rice protein is hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for those with sensitive diets.
Key Ingredients & Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Brown rice protein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
Benefits of Protein for Men and Women Over 50
The reality is, as we age, our nutritional needs change. One nutrient that becomes even more important as we reach our golden years is protein. Here’s why:
Preserves muscle mass
As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass. This process, known as sarcopenia, can lead to weakness, you being frail, and a decreased quality of life. But, consuming enough protein can help counteract this. Protein provides the building blocks our bodies need to repair muscle and build muscle mass. This is especially true if you’re also doing resistance training, which stimulates muscle protein synthesis.
By adding a high-quality protein powder to your diet, you can help maintain and even build muscle mass, supporting strength and mobility as you age.
Maintains bone health
Protein plays a key role in keeping your bones healthy. What people don’t know is that bones are living tissue, and like all tissues in our body, they need protein to stay strong. Research has shown that a higher protein intake can help maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
This is particularly important for women who have just undergone menopause, as they’re at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis because of declining estrogen levels. By ensuring you have a sufficient protein intake, you can support your bone health and stay active and independent for longer.
Boosts metabolism and supports weight management
Another benefit of protein is its effect on metabolism. Protein has a high thermic effect compared to fats and carbs, which simply means it requires more energy to digest. The great thing about this is that it can boost metabolism.
Protein also gives feelings of fullness, which can help you manage your body weight by reducing your overall calorie intake.
A protein-rich shake can be a convenient and satisfying meal or snack that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
Supports immune system functioning
If you want a strong immune system, then you need to consume an ample amount of protein. Protein helps the body produce antibodies, immune system cells, and other components that fight off illness and infection. It also plays a role in healing and recovery after illness, which is particularly useful as recovery doesn’t get much easier as we age.
Helps control appetite
Finally, protein can help you maintain a healthy appetite. Protein is known for promoting a feeling of fullness.
So, consuming protein-rich foods or a shake can help control your appetite and reduce cravings. This ultimately makes it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan and can be particularly beneficial for those who find it hard to manage their body weight.
What are the Different Types of Protein Powder?
Whey isolate protein powder
Whey isolate protein powder is a very refined form of whey protein that contains a high percentage of protein with minimal lactose and fat. It’s a complete protein, which means that it contains all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle growth. Whey isolate is absorbed quickly by the body, meaning it’s a good choice for post-workout recovery.
Whey isolate protein powders are also usually easy to digest and the isolation process removes most of the lactose, so it’s perfect for people with a lactose intolerance.
Whey concentrate protein powder
Whey protein concentrate is a very popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. This is because it has a nice balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It’s less processed than whey isolate, which means it retains more of the beneficial nutrients found naturally in whey.
Most concentrates have slightly less protein per serving than whey isolate, it also often has a creamier texture and a more pronounced flavor. Bear in mind that whey protein powder does contain more lactose, so it might not be the best choice for those with lactose intolerance.
Casein protein powder
Much like whey, casein protein powder comes from milk but it behaves quite differently. Casein is a slow-digesting protein, which means it provides a sustained release of amino acids over time. This makes it a perfect pre-bedtime snack, as it can help fuel muscle recovery and growth while you sleep.
Casein is also a complete protein and is usually high in calcium. But, like whey concentrate, it has lactose, so you might have to avoid this form of protein intake if your stomach can’t tolerate lactose.
Pea protein powder
Pea protein powder is a common plant-based alternative to dairy-based protein powder. It’s usually made from yellow split peas. This type of protein powder is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and often more easily digested than some other types of protein.
The downside with pea-based protein powder is that it’s not a complete protein on its own. But, you can get around this by combining it with other plant proteins like rice or hemp protein, after which it can provide all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Pea protein powder is also a great source of iron and its mild flavor makes it a versatile addition to protein shakes and recipes.
Rice protein powder
Rice protein powder, often made from brown rice, is another useful plant-based protein option. It’s also not a complete protein on its own, but, like pea-based protein, can be combined with other powders to make it more complete.
One reason why rice protein is so popular is that it’s hypoallergenic, so it’s a good option for people with allergies or sensitivities to dairy or soy. Most people also don’t have a problem digesting it and tends to be less gritty in texture than some other plant proteins. Lastly, its mild flavor allows it to blend well with a variety of foods and drinks.
Egg white protein powder
Egg white protein powder is a high-quality protein source which is great for those who can’t or choose not to consume dairy. As you’d expect, this protein is made from the protein in egg whites, making it a complete protein with all the essential amino acids. It’s also low in fat and carbohydrates, so it’s great for keeping your waistline in check.
High-quality egg white protein powders are typically easy to digest and have a neutral taste, so it’s another versatile option for adding to shakes, baked goods, and smoothies.
Soy protein powder
Soy protein powder is one of the best plant-based proteins because it gives you a complete profile of amino acids. It’s made from defatted soybean flakes and provides a high protein content with minimal amounts of fat and carbohydrates.
Soy protein also has beneficial compounds called isoflavones, which according to studies, can offer health benefits like improved heart and bone health.
Do note that some people may have allergies or sensitivities to soy, so it’s important to choose a protein powder that suits your individual needs and tolerances.
Advantages of Using Protein Powder as a Protein Source
Convenient way to get more protein
One of the best things about protein powder is how incredibly convenient it can be. It’s a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. Just scoop, mix, and you’ve got a high-protein meal or snack ready to go. No cooking or meal prep is needed.
Available in dairy, animal, and plant-based forms
Another great thing about protein powder is the variety. Whether you’re a dairy lover, a carnivore, a vegetarian, or a vegan, there’s a protein powder out there for you. From whey and casein to pea, rice, and hemp, the options almost seem endless. This means you’re in a better position to choose a protein source that aligns with your dietary preferences and needs.
Flexible for a variety of dietary needs
Protein powder isn’t just for shakes, especially if you go for the unflavored ones. It’s very versatile and can be used in many different ways to meet your dietary needs. You can add it to your morning oatmeal for a protein-packed breakfast or even incorporate it into your favorite baked goods so you get a delicious treat that can help you meet your protein requirements.
Many tasty options are available, which makes consuming it easier
Gone are the days when protein powder only comes in chalky, hard-to-swallow flavors. Nowadays, protein powders come in a wide range of delicious flavors, from reliable classics like chocolate and vanilla to more exotic options like mocha, salted caramel, and cookies and cream.
Another huge advantage is that you can mix your protein powder with water, milk, or non-dairy milk like almond milk to create a shake that suits your taste buds.
What to Look for in a Protein Powder for Men and Women Over 50
Protein content
When choosing a protein powder, the protein content should generally be where you start. Look for a product that’ll give you at least 20 grams of protein per serving. This amount is ideal because it can stimulate muscle protein synthesis and aid muscle recovery, especially after a workout. It’s also a significant contribution toward meeting your daily protein intake goals.
Remember, protein is not just for building muscle mass, it’s also essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as supporting immune function.
Little to no added sugar
Ok, we all know that a bit of sugar can enhance the taste of your protein shake, but too much can lead to unnecessary calorie intake and cause spikes in your blood sugar levels. This can be particularly problematic if you’re managing diabetes or pre-diabetes. Therefore, it’s best to go for a protein powder with no more than a few grams of added sugar per serving.
Many high-quality protein powders are sweetened naturally or use low-calorie sweeteners to provide a sweet taste without the added sugar.
No artificial sweeteners
Whenever possible, avoid artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame, because they’re known to cause digestive discomfort for quite a few people and can have other health implications.
Go for protein powders sweetened with natural alternatives like stevia or monk fruit, or just go for unsweetened if you prefer. Unsweetened options are also much more dynamic in terms of being integrated into a diet.
Little to no additives
Many protein powders contain additives like thickeners and stabilizers (xanthan gum, guar gum, cellulose gum, lecithin), preservatives (citric acid, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate), and colorings. While these aren’t necessarily harmful, they can cause digestive issues for some people. The fewer additives, the better.
Easy to digest
Digestibility is a huge factor, especially as we get older. Whey isolate, rice protein, and egg protein powder are all relatively easy to digest. On the other hand, whey protein concentrate or casein contains more lactose and can be more difficult for some people to digest, especially if they’re lactose intolerant.
Taste and mixability
Finally, don’t forget about taste and mixability. A protein powder might have all the right nutritional stats, but if it doesn’t taste good or doesn’t mix well, you probably won’t be too keen on using it.
Look for protein supplements that blend smoothly and come in flavors you actually enjoy. Remember, dieting doesn’t mean punishing yourself by sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
The best protein supplements for men and women over 50 are those that offer high-quality protein, are easily digestible, and have little to no additives. Whey protein, especially grass-fed whey protein isolate like our top pick from Transparent Labs, is a great choice because of its complete amino acid profile and easy digestibility.
Plant-based options like pea or rice protein are great options for those with dietary restrictions. Ultimately, the best protein powder is one that aligns with your dietary needs and health goals.
No, not really. While men may require more protein per day and women may benefit more from certain micronutrients like calcium and vitamin D, generally speaking, the best protein powder for men over 50 will likely also be the best protein powder for women of the same age. Protein powder doesn’t need to be gender specific.
Micronutrient needs are better addressed through the rest of a person’s diet and multivitamin supplementation, not through protein powder.
Absolutely! People over the age of 50 can safely consume protein powder. It’s a stress-free way to boost your protein intake, especially for people who struggle to get enough protein from food alone.
But, it’s always important to choose high-quality protein powders with the least amount of additives and to consult with a healthcare professional before integrating any new dietary supplements, especially if you don’t know how much protein you need in your diet.
Conclusion
100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs takes the crown as the best overall protein powder for men and women over 50. Its high-quality, easy-to-digest formula makes choosing it a no-brainer. This protein powder is not only packed with the essential amino acids needed for muscle recovery and growth but it’s also sourced from grass-fed cows, so you’ll get a clean, high-quality product.
But, Essential Protein Powder 50+ by Ritual and the Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs shouldn’t be ruled out because they’re close runner-ups, both offering outstanding quality and value. These protein powders cater to different dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that everyone can find a product that suits them.
No matter your choice, remember that it needs to align with your dietary needs and health goals. You also need to remember that protein powders are a just tool that can help you reach your protein intake targets. They should be used as part of a balanced diet that includes various protein-rich foods as well as other key macronutrients.
And as always, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. In the end, the best protein powder is the one that you will use consistently, that fits your lifestyle, and that helps you feel your best!
