Looking for the lowest-calorie protein powder can be a headache, especially considering just how many options are out there.
But guess what?
We’ve done the legwork for you by calculating the percentage of calories from protein and selecting the lowest-calorie protein powders for you.
Our pick for the best low-calorie protein powder is 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs.
With 93% of its calories coming from protein, this is one of the lowest calorie protein powders on the market. Plus, this protein powder is third-party tested for purity, has no artificial ingredients, and is available in a wide variety of delicious flavors.
It’s truly a no-brainer pick for anyone seeking to build lean muscle.
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 if that’s not your thing, we have six other great low-calorie protein powders featured. Dive in as we unravel our top picks!
Table of Contents
The Top 7 Recommended Low Calorie Protein Powders
- 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Transparent Labs
- Impact Whey Protein Isolate – MyProtein
- Casein Protein Powder – Transparent Labs
- Egg White Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Vegan Protein Powder – Promix
- Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
- Whey Protein Isolate – Bulk Supplements
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
100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs stands out at the very top of low-calorie protein powders, and here’s why. One of its main features is the diverse range of flavors it offers, each carefully crafted to ensure its low-calorie content.
Flavors like Milk Chocolate, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, French Vanilla, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Unflavored, Strawberry, Mocha, and Cinnamon French Toast all boast an impressive 93% of their calories coming directly from protein. This ensures that you’re not just enjoying a delicious shake, but also maximizing your protein intake with minimal calorie consumption.
For those sensitive to lactose, this protein powder is a dream come true, being 99% lactose-free. When you factor in its delicious taste, unmatched quality, and commitment to low-calorie efficiency, it becomes clear that Transparent Labs’ whey protein powder isn’t just a choice; it’s the best choice.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Grass-fed whey isolate
- Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract (165 mg)
Impact Whey Protein Isolate – MyProtein
Whey Protein Isolate from Myprotein is one of the best values you'll find for whey isolate. If you want to avoid excessive lactose consumption, I'd go with this.
Discount codes:
MYPLIFTVAULT = 35% off + free US shipping
When it comes to getting the best bang for your buck without compromising on quality, MyProtein’s whey isolate is a standout choice. This whey protein powder is not only wallet-friendly but also packs a nutritional punch. Around 89% of its calories are sourced from protein, a figure that can vary slightly across its impressive range of flavors.
Such a high protein percentage aligns perfectly with those on a high-protein diet, aiming for muscle growth or looking to lose weight. However, there’s a small catch to consider. MyProtein does include sucralose and acesulfame potassium in its ingredient list. So, for those wary of artificial sweeteners, it might be a point of contemplation.
Suppose you’re on the hunt for a protein powder that offers value without burning a hole in your pocket and that aligns with your goals. In that case, MyProtein’s cheap protein powder is a top contender for increasing your protein intake on a budget.
Key ingredients :
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate
- Sweetener: Sucralose, acesulfame potassium
Casein Protein Powder – Promix
A top-tier selection for anyone seeking a high-quality, clean casein protein powder.
Promix’s Casein Protein Powder is a game-changer in the world of low-calorie protein powders, setting a gold standard for people keen on upping their protein intake. It’s a great option for those seeking a slower-absorbing protein powder, great for taking before bed.
One reason why it’s loved by many is the unflavored option, which delivers a staggering 95% of its calories directly from protein, as well as essential amino acids. In terms of the quality of protein powders, this is as elite as it gets. Remarkably, it achieves this feat with zero fats and carbs.
For those who like their protein powder flavored, the Vanilla option doesn’t disappoint, offering 80% of its calories from protein. It’s sweetened with organic coconut sugar, a nod to those who lean towards natural sweeteners, even if it carries slightly more calories than alternatives like stevia.
However, if you’re on a strict low-calorie diet, you may want to tread lightly with the Chocolate flavor, which gets 77% of its calories from protein. In short, Promix’s Casein Protein Powder is a master in balancing taste, quality, and caloric efficiency. This is why it always gives other protein powders made from casein a run for their money.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 105
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Grass-fed micellar casein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened or organic coconut sugar (flavored)
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 got a sensitive stomach, then lactose-free protein powders are likely a better option for you. This is where Egg White Protein Powder by Naked Nutrition steps into the spotlight. This gem is not just about being gentle on your tummy; it’s a powerhouse of protein efficiency. A commendable 91% of its calories are sourced directly from protein, making it an easy choice for those watching their calorie intake.
What’s even more impressive is its clean ingredient list. This is another one of those protein powders without flavorings or sweeteners, so you pretty much have fewer things to worry about that could potentially upset your stomach or add needless calories. The only components you’ll find are pure egg white protein and a touch of sunflower lecithin, a standard emulsifier in protein powders.
This option also doesn’t have any fat, which can be very beneficial for people with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Egg white protein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
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.
If you tread the vegan path, then whey protein powders simply won’t do it for you. Instead, you need a reliable plant-based protein powder that has a solid protein profile and those much-needed essential amino acids. Vegan Protein Powder by Promix is the answer. This plant-based marvel ensures that a whopping 87% of its calories, in both the unflavored and French Vanilla versions, come straight from protein.
The French Vanilla flavor is a delightful blend that is sweetened with monk fruit and infused with organic vanilla extractives. These choices not only add a touch of sweetness and flavor but also ensure that the calorie count remains on the lower side.
And for those with sensitive tummies or lactose intolerance, rejoice! This protein powder is entirely lactose-free because it’s made from organic brown rice protein and, one of the best forms of vegetable, pea protein isolate which is high in branched-chain amino acids.
In a world where vegan options are regularly compromised in taste or nutritional value, Promix’s Vegan Protein Powder breaks the mold, offering a blend that’s both delicious and nutritious, making it the top pick for the best low-calorie vegan protein powder.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 115
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Organic Canadian yellow pea protein powder and brown rice protein powder
- Sweetener: Unsweetened or monk fruit (flavored)
Rice Protein Powder – Naked Nutrition
Every calorie counts right? So why not get yourself a protein that takes this into account? Naked Nutrition’s Rice Protein Powder is a great low-calorie protein powder. It emerges as a clear winner in the rice protein category. This unique blend ensures that a substantial 83% of its calories come directly from protein, making it a lean choice for muscle growth and those looking to lose weight.
Being lactose-free, it’s a blessing for people who often find themselves at odds with dairy-based products. Plus, its vegan credentials mean it aligns perfectly with plant-based diets. One of its main attributes is that it’s unflavored, ensuring you’re only getting the purest form of rice protein without any added frills.
For those who may be side-eyeing rice protein due to specific dietary restrictions, this rice protein powder becomes an even more attractive option. It’s also worth noting that this protein powder comes packed with 8 essential amino acids and 4.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Protein source: Brown rice protein
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
Whey Protein Isolate – Bulk Supplements
If you don't mind your protein powder being unflavored, then Bulk Supplements is the place for whey protein isolate.
For those who believe in stocking up on their whey protein powder without compromising on quality, Whey Protein Isolate by Bulk Supplements is a no-brainer. It’s made for those who are keen on saving money and trips to the store with large orders. A staggering 95% of its calories come from protein. But, there’s a small trade-off to consider: it’s only available unflavored.
While this may be off-putting for some, it’s a bonus for those who prefer to have more control over their shakes or recipes. This may be the last-mentioned low-calorie protein powder on our list but it doesn’t mean it’s any less effective or valuable.
In fact, its bulk availability combined with its impressive nutritional profile makes it a prime choice for those looking to get the most value out of their protein powder purchases.
Key ingredients:
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein source: Whey protein isolate
- Sweetener: Unsweetened
How to Easily Calculate Where Calories Come From
Calories per gram of fat, carbs, and protein
Exploring the world of nutrition labels isn’t just about glancing at the calorie count; it’s about understanding where those calories originate. Here’s a quick breakdown: every gram of fat packs 9 calories, while both protein and carbohydrates contribute 4 calories per gram. If you’re armed with the knowledge of how many grams of each macronutrient a serving contains, you can easily calculate the total caloric content.
For example, a product with 10 grams of pure protein will give you 40 calories. But remember, it’s not just about the raw numbers. The real magic lies in determining the percentage of those calories that come from protein, which leads us to our next point…
Percentage of calories from protein is key
When you’re on a quest for the most calorically efficient protein powder, the spotlight should be on the percentage of calories that come from protein. Why? Let’s break it down with an example:
Suppose Product A contains 10 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat, totaling 58 calories. In comparison, Product B offers 20 grams of pure protein, which equals 80 calories. At first glance, Product A may seem lower in calories, but the real metric to consider is the percentage of calories from protein.
A whopping 100% of Product B‘s calories come from protein, while only 69% of Product A‘s do, with the rest coming from fat. If you aimed to consume 20 grams of protein, Product A would set you back 116 calories, whereas Product B would only be 80. This shows why focusing on the percentage of calories from protein is the golden standard for determining caloric efficiency.
How to Choose a Low-Calorie Protein Powder
Minimize fat and carbohydrates
When on the hunt for the perfect low-calorie protein powder, you have to keep an eagle eye on the fat and carbohydrate content. While these macronutrients do have their place in a balanced diet, in the realm of protein powders, they can quickly ramp up the calorie count.
By going for powders with minimal fats and carbs, you ensure that the majority of your calorie intake is coming from protein, which will better align with your goal of maximizing protein while keeping calories in check.
Look for low-calorie sweeteners
It’s not very easy to tip-toe around sweeteners, but if you want to keep those calories at bay, you have to. Natural options like stevia and monk fruit have become popular because of their low-calorie profiles without the added sugars. Although sucralose is another common choice, it’s worth noting that it can sometimes trigger insulin spikes, especially when paired with sugar.
Plus, emerging studies are hinting at its potential genotoxic effects. So, when you’re scanning those ingredient lists, it’s wise to lean towards naturally occurring sweeteners for a healthier, low-calorie flavor boost.
Consider unflavored options
Sometimes, simplicity is the key. Unflavored protein powders may lack the appeal of their chocolate or vanilla-flavored counterparts, but they come with a big advantage: fewer calories. The lack of flavoring, especially sweeteners, means that these powders are usually leaner and more straightforward.
If you’re genuinely committed to cutting down on calories without compromising on protein, going unflavored may just be your best bet. It also offers a blank canvas, which allows you to get creative with your mix-ins and flavorings at home.
Avoid whey concentrate
We get it, the protein powder aisle is brimming with options, but because of this, it’s important to be very selective. Whey protein concentrate, for example, might not be your best bet for a low-calorie choice. In comparison, whey protein isolate shines in terms of caloric efficiency. This is because whey protein isolates often boast insignificant amounts of fat and carbs.
Egg white protein powder and pea protein isolate are other top picks in this category. But remember, flavorings can be the wild card, potentially upping the calories. So, always make it a habit to scrutinize nutrition fact labels before making a purchase.
FAQs About Low-Calorie Protein Powder
When you’re sifting through low-calorie protein powders, go for those where at least 80% of the calories come from protein. The crème de la crème of these powders will boast a whopping 90% or even more of their calories from protein.
This ensures that you’re getting the maximum protein punch for the fewest calories, making your fitness journey smoother.
If you want most of your calories coming from protein instead of carbs, fat, and flavoring, then 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate from Transparent Labs is as good as it gets. You’ll be getting 93% of your calories from protein, which is highly efficient.
That’s why we also selected this product as the best protein powder for cutting.
While there are many protein sources tailored to be low in calories, it’s wise to stay clear of whey concentrates. Instead, go for whey protein isolates. Other solid options include pea isolate, casein, rice, and egg white protein powders.
A pro tip: often, calories sneak in through flavorings and sweeteners. So, if you’re on the hunt for the leanest option, unflavored protein powders typically take the crown over their flavored counterparts. Luckily, there are flavored options that use natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit, both of which are low in calories.
Conclusion
As we have said, there are a lot of low-calorie protein powders out there, so finding the one for you can be a daunting task. However, with the right knowledge, you can make informed choices that align with your fitness goals. Remember, it’s not just about counting calories; it’s about understanding where those calories come from.
100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs emerges as the top low-calorie protein powder – its amazing nutritional profile with minimal fats and carbs puts other grass-fed protein powders to shame while ensuring you get the most protein bang for your calorie buck.
Close on its heels is the Casein Protein Powder by Promix and Naked Nutrition’s Egg White Protein Powder, both of which offer impressive caloric efficiency.
By understanding the aspects surrounding nutrition labels, from the percentage of calories from protein to the types of sweeteners used, you’ll be empowered to make the best choice for your health and fitness journey. Dive in, fuel up, and let these protein powders be the tools to help you reach your goals!
