Best Clear Protein Powders
Fewer Calories, Easier Digestion & Tropical Flavors? Here's Why Clear Protein Is All the Rage
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If you get a stomach ache just hearing the words “whey protein,” or if you have terrible memories from over a decade ago of trying to down a thick, chalky protein shake that only vaguely tasted like the flavor on the label, you’re not alone.
Many people eager to enjoy the benefits of cheap and readily available protein in powder form have been put off by some combination of taste, texture and indigestion, leading them to ditch protein shakes entirely, often in favor of protein bars. Thankfully, thanks to some recent advancements in protein science (yep, it’s a thing!), there’s now a better option: clear protein.
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Unlike traditional whey proteins, which have a milk-like consistency, clear proteins are closer to a juice, making them much easier to drink and much easier on the stomach. These water-soluble proteins mix easily, ditch both fat and lactose, and therefore even tend to have fewer calories than their pure whey alternatives. Best of all, because of their solubility, protein manufacturers have been able to explore much wider ranges of flavors than in the past.
Here are some of our favorite options on the market:
GHOST CLEAR WHEY
GHOST is known for three qualities: premium ingredients, transparent labels and top-notch taste, and all three are in evidence with their new CLEAR WHEY. Each scoop delivers 25 grams of protein in just 100 calories, with no sugars and no fats, making this an excellent option for anyone on a diet. It’s currently available in three delicious flavor options: Strawberry Watermelon, Orange Cream and Blue Raspberry.
WICKED Clear Whey Isolate
If you want to lean into the juice-like consistency and flavor clear whey can offer, check out WICKED’s Clear Whey Isolate. Each serving offers 23 grams of protein and just 95 calories, without lactose, GMOs or gluten. We especially love the lack of artificial ingredients, the transparent labeling, and the generous amino acid profile.
SEEQ Clear Protein
Available in five fruit-themed flavors, from Mango Pineapple to Watermelon Wave, SEEQ’s take on clear protein offers 22 grams of protein and 4.5 grams of BCAAs per serving, with no sugars and a mere 100 calories per serving. We especially love their Fruit Punch flavor, blending notes of orange, cherry and pineapple into a cooling concoction that delivers the perfect post-workout mixture of refreshment and recovery.
Myprotein Clear Whey Isolate
If you’re deep into a cut and battling on poverty macros, Myprotein has you covered. Their Clear Whey Isolate delivers 20 grams of protein and just 80 calories in each serving, which is nothing short of incredible when you consider that a gram of protein contains four calories, but your mind will really be blown when you find out that every one of their six flavors is also tasty, too.
Ascent Clear Protein Isolate
If you’re a morning smoothie person and want a low-calorie option that will blend easily into your next fruit concoction, check out Ascent. Their Clear Protein Isolate, available in Orange Mango and Pineapple Coconut flavors, delivers 20 grams of ultra-clean protein, with no artificial flavors of sweeteners, and just 100 calories per serving.
RYSE Clear Protein Shake
If you can’t be bothered to make the shake yourself, or just want a convenient on-the-go option, check out RYSE’s Clear Protein Shake. Each bottle delivers 22 grams of high-quality isolate protein, without fat or lactose, five unique flavor options, including Key Lime Pie and Country Time Lemonade. Pro tip, though: opt for the variety pack to experience them all and find your favorite.
Isopure Clear Whey Isolate
Another ultra-lean, diet-friendly option, Isopure’s Clear Whey Isolate delivers 20 grams of protein and four grams of BCAAs for the low serving cost of just 90 calories. It mixes incredibly well and tastes excellent in each of its six flavor offerings (Citrus Lemonade, Mango Lime, Mixed Berry, Pineapple Orange, Tropical Punch and Watermelon Lime). If you’re living the low-carb lifestyle and want a GMO- and gluten-free way to boost your protein intake, this is a great option.
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