Protein powderis a popular way to boost protein intake, supporting workouts, weight management, and overall health.

While many powders deliver the extra protein you’re looking for, not all protein powders are nutritionally equal.

Some powders contain extra sugar, additives, and ingredients you may not want in a supplement.

different protein powders

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When shopping for a protein powder, it’s important to look beyond grams per scoop.

Check out the entire Nutrition Facts label, especially the ingredients list.

Remember, these powders are supplements, not replacements for real food.

Body Fortress Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder Cookies & Cream

Body Fortress

Opt for products with fewer ingredients,no added sugar, and few artificial ingredients.

Getting too much sodium may lead to high blood pressure and increase risk of heart disease and stroke.

Americans already consumemore sodium than recommendedfrom food and may not think about sodium content in a supplement.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Plant Protein Rich Chocolate Fudge

Optimum Nutrition

It’s also fat-free and low-carb.

But, Seeq includes silicone andpolysorbate 80, synthetic food additives generally recognized as safe.

However, the effects of long-term excessive intake of these food additives is unknown.

Seeq Fruit Punch Clear Protein

Seeq

Regulatory agencies like the FDA require food makers follow acontrolled production processwhen using additives like silicone.

Choosing supplements with more natural ingredients may reduce exposure and potential risk.

More research is needed, but limiting intake of the sugar alcohol may benefit heart health.

Quest Vanilla Milkshake Whey Protein Powder

Quest

Artificial sweeteners improve flavor and limit sugar, carbs, and calories in the supplement.

However,researchsuggests that the calorie-free sweeteners may not help with weight management or reduce risk of disease.

It contains.protease and bromelain, digestive enzymes that may reduce gastrointestinal side effects like gas and bloating.

SixStar 100% Whey Protein Strawberry Smoothie

SixStar

It also contains artificial flavors and sweeteners.

However, its high sodium content 490 milligrams meets more than 20% of your daily sodium limit.

It also contains carrageenan and sucralose.

Muscle Milk 100% Whey Protein

Muscle Milk

Ghost Whey Nutter Butter

Ghost

Equate Plant-Based Protein Supplement

Equate