We Reviewed Dozens of Protein Powders for Women — Here Are the 7 RDs Recommend
Women looking for the best protein powder for their needs should consider factors like the type of protein included, ingredient quality, and dietary preferences or sensitivities. Some products are fortified with vitamins, minerals, or greens, while others focus on simple, minimal ingredients. Additionally, many powders now carry third-party certifications to guarantee purity and label accuracy, which can provide extra peace of mind.
To help you find the best options, we reviewed a wide range of protein powders, consulted with four registered dietitians — Ana Reisdorf, RD, Sydney Lappe, RDN, Gabby Zeagler, RD, CDCES, and Sapna Peruvemba, RDN — and analyzed the latest research. Here are the best protein powders for women that we recommend.
Our Top Picks for the Best Protein Powders for Women
- Best with iron: Future Kind Plant-Powered Organic Protein
- Best plant-based: Kos Superfood Protein
- Best organic: Vega All-in-One Shake
- Best whey: ProMix Grass-Fed Whey
- Best with greens: Garden of Life Protein + Greens
- Best with digestive enzymes: Ora So Lean & So Clean
- Best with collagen: Orgain Plant Protein Plus Collagen
When to Consult Your Doctor?
If you’re considering adjusting your protein intake, it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Protein plays many important roles in the body, including muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
However, consuming too much or too little can have unintended effects. For example, if you have kidney issues, excessive protein intake can put additional strain on your kidneys. If you’re experiencing signs of protein deficiency, like fatigue, muscle weakness, or slow recovery from exercise, your doctor can help you determine if a change in your protein intake is necessary.
It’s important to check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, including protein powder. Supplements can interact with medications or other health conditions, and it’s always best to ensure that they’re safe for your specific needs. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations on the right amount of protein, taking into account your diet, lifestyle, and any potential health risks.

Best Protein Powder With Iron
Future Kind Plant-Powered Organic Protein
Pros
- Vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free
- Iron-rich to support women’s health
- Organic ingredients
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Sweetened with stevia, which may leave an aftertaste
- Not as widely available as others on our list
- Best for: Iron
- Type of protein: Pea
- Protein per serving: 20 g
- Sweetener: Stevia
- Price: $53.99 (32 ounces)
Future Kind Plant-Powered Organic Protein landed at the top of our list as the best protein powder with iron for women. Its simple, nutrient-rich formula uses a few high-quality, organic, plant-based ingredients to produce the vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free powder
We love that Future Kind is third-party tested, so you can trust that it’s been independently verified for quality and purity. We also appreciate that Future Kind goes the extra mile with eco-friendly packaging in a compostable pouch, a unique find in the protein market.
The downsides? This protein powder is sweetened with stevia, which can leave a slight aftertaste that some may not like, and it’s less readily available than others on our list.

Best Plant-Based Protein Powder
Kos Superfood Protein
Pros
- Organic and non-GMO
- Free of gluten, dairy, and artificial sweeteners
- Formulated with iron to support women’s health
- Provides B12 to support healthy energy levels
- Contains fruits and veggies, adding nutritional value
Cons
- Sweetened with stevia, which may leave an aftertaste
- Occasionally has a lumpy texture
- Best for: Plant-based
- Type of protein: Pea
- Protein per serving: 20 g
- Sweeteners: Coconut sugar, stevia, monk fruit extract
- Price: $53.99 (32 oz)
“For plant-based protein for women, I like Kos Superfood Protein,” says Reisdorf, adding that “it comes in a ton of yummy flavors, like cinnamon crunch and salted caramel, and also provides 20 g of plant-based protein.” Reisdorf points out that “the protein comes from a blend of pea, flax, quinoa, pumpkin, and chia, which covers all of your bases when it comes to amino acids.” She also likes what she calls a "superfood blend" of fruits and veggies, boosting its nutritional content.
Keep in mind that this product is sweetened with stevia, which may leave an unpleasant aftertaste for some people. Furthermore, our research suggests that the texture can occasionally be lumpy, which might be a turnoff if you’re looking for a smooth texture that’s easy to mix.

Best Organic Protein Powder
Vega All-in-One Shake
Pros
- Gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan
- Contains fruits and vegetables to support overall health
- Provides fiber and probiotics to support gut health
- Formulated with omega-3s to support heart health
Cons
- Sweetened with stevia, which may leave an aftertaste
- Manufactured in a facility that processes major allergens
- Best for: Organic
- Type of protein: Pea
- Protein per serving: 20 g
- Sweetener: Stevia
- Price: $98.37 (61.8 oz)
Vega All-in-One Shake is our pick for the best organic protein powder because of its impressive nutritional profile. It is gluten-free and contains no GMOs, added sugar, or artificial flavors. In addition to protein, it provides a mix of fruits and vegetables to support your overall health and wellness.
"Offering both multiserving containers and single-serving packets, Vega makes it simple for women to get protein and many key nutrients, even on the busiest days," says Lappe.
One potential downside is that this protein powder is sweetened with stevia, which may leave an off-putting aftertaste. Additionally, it's manufactured in a facility that processes major allergens, like peanuts, milk, soy, and eggs, which could be a concern if you have severe food allergies.

Best Whey Protein Powder
ProMix Grass-Fed Whey
Pros
- Made from grass-fed whey protein
- Provides BCAAs for muscle recovery
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO and no refined sugars or artificial sweeteners
Cons
- 5 g of sugar per serving, the highest on our list
- Not suitable for vegans
- Best for: Whey
- Type of protein: Grass-fed whey
- Protein per serving: 25 g
- Sweetener: Organic coconut sugar
- Price: $49.49 (40 oz)
ProMix Grass-Fed Whey is our favorite whey protein powder due to its straightforward ingredient profile. Free of gluten, soy, GMOs, refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, stevia, and fillers, this protein powder offers a high-quality option for women looking for a great product to support their goals.
“I'm an active woman, and my favorite whey-based protein powder is ProMix Grass-Fed Whey,” says Zeagler. “It dissolves easily in water or almond milk, and I love adding it to oatmeal or smoothies for an extra protein boost, especially when I’m craving something sweet. For women, keeping up protein intake throughout the day is key for supporting hormones, balancing blood sugar, and fueling our bodies to keep up with all of our activities.”
A few potential drawbacks include its 5 g of sugar per serving, which may not be ideal for those closely monitoring blood sugar levels. Additionally, whey-based protein is unsuitable for vegans and those avoiding animal products derived from dairy.

Best Protein Powder With Greens
Garden of Life Protein + Greens
Pros
- Organic, non-GMO, and vegan
- Contains a blend of greens and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Formulated with probiotics and fiber to support digestive health
- Provides iron to support women’s health
- Includes BCAAs to support muscle recovery
Cons
- Sweetened with stevia, which may leave an aftertaste
- May have a lumpy texture when mixed
- Best for: Greens
- Type of protein: Pea
- Protein per serving: 20 g
- Sweetener: Stevia
- Price: $40.79 (19.4 oz)
"Garden of Life Protein + Greens is a good choice if you want extra nutrients from greens and a boost in digestion," says Peruvemba, who adds the caution that "greens powder isn’t a replacement for fresh veggies."
Stevia is used for sweetness in this powder, which can leave an aftertaste. Additionally, some users found that it didn’t mix as smoothly as other powders, which could be a detraction if you’re looking for a smoother texture.

Best Protein Powder With Digestive Enzymes
Ora So Lean & So Clean
Pros
- Organic and non-GMO
- Free from gluten, dairy, sugar, fillers, and artificial additives
- Third-party tested
- Contains fruits and veggies to boost nutritional value
- Provides iron to support women’s health
- Contains digestive enzymes to support healthy digestion
Cons
- Sweetened with stevia, which may leave an aftertaste
- Not as widely available as others on our list
- Best for: Digestive enzymes
- Type of protein: Pea
- Protein per serving: 21 g
- Sweeteners: Stevia, monk fruit extract
- Price: $44.99 (21.2 oz)
Ora So Lean & So Clean is an excellent choice for women looking for a protein powder with digestive enzymes. We also love that the product is organic, non-GMO, and free from gluten, dairy, sugar, fillers, and artificial additives. And we appreciate that it is third-party tested, which means that it’s free from contaminants and meets high standards for quality and safety.
Ora So Lean & So Clean powder has a few drawbacks to keep in mind. First, it’s sweetened with stevia, which can leave a slightly bitter aftertaste for some. It’s also not as widely available as some of the other protein powders on our list.

Best Protein Powder With Collagen
Orgain Plant Protein Plus Collagen
Pros
- Formulated with collagen, which may support skin, joint, and gut health
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- Free of dairy and lactose
- Provides fiber and probiotics to support gut health
Cons
- Contains erythritol, a sweetener that’s been linked to an increase in blood clots
- Not as widely available as other products on our list
- Best for: Collagen
- Types of protein: Pea, collagen
- Protein per serving: 25 g
- Sweetener: Erythritol
- Price: $37.24 (25.6 oz)
Orgain Plant Protein Plus Collagen combines high-quality protein with the added benefits of collagen. Each serving provides 25 g of protein to support your fitness goals and 10 g of collagen peptides, which come with a host of potential health benefits.
Comparison Table
How We Tested the Best Protein Powders
To determine the best protein powders for women, we rigorously reviewed various products that offer quality protein along with support for women’s health needs. We carefully analyzed the ingredients to bring you the most effective products based on the current research. Additionally, we looked at certifications like non-GMO, organic, and third-party testing, which indicate higher transparency and safety. Our process also involved interviewing four registered dietitians, who provided expert insights to make sure that the powders we recommend meet women’s nutritional needs.
I have over 18 years of experience as a registered dietitian focused on women’s health, so my expertise played an important role in shaping our review process. Having helped countless women choose protein powders that align with their unique needs, I know how important it is to find options that work for different lifestyles and health goals. This guide provides an in-depth, personalized approach, giving you trusted insights to help you pick the best protein powder for you.
What to Look for When Buying the Best Protein Powder for Women
With so many options on the market, choosing the best protein powder can be confusing. For women specifically, finding a protein powder that balances high-quality ingredients with supportive health benefits is important. Assess the following features when deciding if a protein powder is the right choice for you.
- Protein Source and Type Look for a protein type that aligns with your dietary preferences, like whey for fast-absorbing protein or plant-based options like pea or rice for vegan and dairy-free diets.
- Nutritional Profile Check for added nutrients like iron to support women’s health and fiber to support healthy digestion.
- Ingredient Quality Opt for products free of artificial additives, fillers, and unnecessary sugars. Organic or non-GMO labels may signal a higher-quality product.
- Sweeteners Look at the type of sweetener used. Some products that use stevia may have an aftertaste, while others are sweetened naturally with monk fruit or left unsweetened.
- Third-Party Testing Third-party testing ensures that a product meets quality and safety standards, giving you confidence that what’s on the label matches what’s in the product. To check if a protein powder has been third-party tested, look for certifications from reputable organizations like NSF, Informed Sport, or USP on the label or in the product description.
What to Know When Buying Protein Powder for Women
How Much Protein Should I Eat in a Day?
If you have specific fitness goals or health conditions, consult with a dietitian who can help tailor a protein intake that’s right for you.
How Much Protein Is Too Much?
Research shows that eating excessive protein may lead to kidney problems, especially in people with existing kidney problems. Additionally, it’s important to consider the source and quality of protein, as animal protein might pose a higher risk compared with plant-based protein.
Is Protein Powder Actually Good for You?
Protein powders can be good for you when you choose high-quality options and use them to supplement — not replace — whole foods. They offer a convenient way to meet protein needs, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or you work out regularly.
To make sure protein powder is right for you, check with your healthcare provider before adding it to your diet, particularly if you have health conditions or take medications. They can help you determine the right amount and ensure that you’re getting what your body needs without overdoing it.
FAQs
It’s helpful to drink protein either before or after a workout, as both timing options support muscle repair and growth. Research suggests that getting protein within an hour after exercise may optimize recovery, but overall daily intake is what matters most.
Yes, protein powder can be a helpful tool for weight loss. It can help you feel fuller longer, boost your metabolism, and maintain muscle mass while you lose weight. Other lifestyle changes like eating plenty of fiber, staying active, and getting enough sleep can also help you reach your weight loss goals.
Yes, women typically have slightly lower protein needs than men due to differences in muscle mass and body size. However, activity level, age, and health goals play a big role, so women with intense workouts or specific health needs may require more protein.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Reyna Franco, RDN
Medical Reviewer
Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. She is a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and has a master's degree in nutrition and exercise physiology from Columbia University.
In her private practice, she provides medical nutrition therapy for weight management, sports nutrition, diabetes, cardiac disease, renal disease, gastrointestinal disorders, cancer, food allergies, eating disorders, and childhood nutrition. To serve her diverse patients, she demonstrates cultural sensitivity and knowledge of customary food practices. She applies the tenets of lifestyle medicine to reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve health outcomes for her patients.
Franco is also a corporate wellness consultant who conducts wellness counseling and seminars for organizations of every size. She taught sports nutrition to medical students at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, taught life cycle nutrition and nutrition counseling to undergraduate students at LaGuardia Community College, and precepts nutrition students and interns. She created the sports nutrition rotation for the New York Distance Dietetic Internship program.
She is the chair of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist Member Interest Group. She is also the treasurer and secretary of the New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, having previously served in many other leadership roles for the organization, including as past president, awards committee chair, and grant committee chair, among others. She is active in the local Greater New York Dietetic Association and Long Island Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, too.

Emily Hirsch, MS, RD, LDN
Author
Emily Hirsch is a registered dietitian, expert health writer, and speaker with over 18 years of experience in the health and wellness space. She is the founder and owner of South Charlotte Nutrition, a private practice dedicated to various nutrition services including counseling, medical nutrition therapy, and corporate wellness.
Beyond her clinical practice, Emily is a professional writer covering a wide variety of health and wellness topics. She remains dedicated to bringing lackluster research to life by translating main research points into language that resonates with diverse audiences. Emily has been a trusted contributor for renowned companies like Nature Made, Garden of Life, and That Clean Life, among others.
Emily's goal is to continue to consistently deliver sound nutrition guidance to help people improve the quality of their lives.
When not working, Emily can be found outdoors picnicking and hiking while taking in all of the vitamin O (oxygen) she can get with her husband and two children.
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