Best Protein Powder For Sensitive Stomach 2023: Top 7 Products
Reviewed by Sutton, D., MD
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| Product | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | KOS Organic Plant Protein | PlantFusion Complete Plant Protein |
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 stars |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 stars |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 stars |
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| WHERE TO BUY |
Stomach issues can ruin the simple pleasures in life, such as enjoying different types of food. When you frequently experience gas, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and other gut health issues, you must meticulously confirm everything you consume. This typically involves checking for the condiments, oil type and amount used, ingredients, and the whole shebang! Ignorantly enjoying your favorite street food or that tantalizing food at the party is not a luxury an individual can afford. A stomach prone to upset is called a “sensitive stomach” in non-medical contexts. Frequent gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea may occur in sensitive stomachs.
Individuals with sensitive stomachs could link their sensitivity to particular foods or circumstances. Others could feel uncomfortable or have digestive issues without knowing the exact cause. Everyone eventually has an upset stomach. However, you might have a sensitive stomach if you frequently experience discomfort, indigestion, or shifting bowel patterns.
Sensitive stomach issues can still be experienced when an individual seeks a dietary supplement. Sensitive stomachs demand supplements designed with this issue in mind. If you are looking for the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs, then you are in luck; this article offers a comprehensive list and description of the best protein supplements for sensitive stomachs. We shall also discuss why a protein powder might upset a sensitive stomach. There are protein supplements such as hemp protein and plant-based and whey protein supplements. These dietary supplements are formulated specially to offer similar health benefits as the others. These protein supplements can increase energy, promote immunity, boost cognitive skills, increase energy levels, and increase muscle development, all without sacrificing your stomach’s comfort.
Buckle up as we dive deep into the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs.
7 Best Protein Powders For Sensitive Stomachs In 2023
This article offers a comprehensive list of the best protein powders for an easily upset stomach:
- Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate – Editor’s Choice
- KOS Organic Plant Protein – Best Tasting Protein Powder For Sensitive Stomach
- PlantFusion Complete Plant Protein – Best Quality
- LYFE Fuel Daily Essentials Shake – Best Natural
- Organic Protein & Superfoods Plant-Based Protein Powder – Best Plant-Based Superfood For Sensitive Stomachs
- Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein Powder – Best Protein Powder For Athletes With Sensitive Stomachs
- GNC Pro Performance Whey Protein Powder – Most Popular
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Multiple flavors
- Grass-fed cows
- All-natural ingredients
KOS Organic Plant Protein
- Vegan friendly
- All-natural ingredients
- Offers money-back guarantee
LYFE Fuel Daily Essentials Shake
- Third-party tested
- Contains superfoods
- Contains natural ingredients
- Low-carb content
Orgain Organic Protein & Superfoods Plant-Based Protein Powder
- Vegan friendly
- Contains bountiful whole foods
- USDA certified
Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein Powder
- Contains probiotics
- Vegan certified
- Gluten-free
GNC Pro Performance Whey Protein Powder
- Informed sport certified
- High protein content
- Easy to mix
7 Best Protein Powders For Sensitive Stomachs In 2023
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
This brand has a solid reputation for designing premium dietary supplements. This Whey protein Isolate is no exception and is ranked the best in the market.
- Multiple flavors
- Grass-fed cows
- All-natural ingredients
- No additional sugars
- Expensive
Transparent Labs Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate is a premium protein supplement with several advantages for people trying to enhance their physical fitness or general well-being. It’s a fantastic alternative for people concerned about what they put in their bodies because it contains hormone-free, non-GMO, and grass-fed ingredients. Additionally remarkable are the flavor and consistency, which have a smooth and creamy consistency that makes it simple to combine and enjoy.
It is a little more expensive than normal, but as we indicated before, there are ways to make it cheaper. Anyone looking for a safe and effective way to support their fitness objectives should consider this protein supplement. We rated it our top pick for the best whey protein isolate powders since we enjoyed it so much.
KOS Organic Plant Protein
This protein powder is among the top-rated for an easily upset tummy. It is an excellent option if you are looking for something other than a high-calorie protein shake.
- Vegan friendly
- All-natural ingredients
- Offers money-back guarantee
- Promotes weight loss
- Not an excellent option for people seeking weight gain
- Has no vitamin D
This vegan protein powder is among the top-rated dietary supplements suitable for a sensitive stomach. This supplement comes in multiple tasty flavors, including unflavored, salted caramel coffee, vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, chocolate chip mint, chocolate, and a blueberry muffin. You can enjoy tasty protein shakes from these plant-based protein powders. You can experience significant weight loss by consuming this protein shake since it contains low-calorie content. This protein powder promotes weight reduction by curbing food cravings. It contains all-organic soy-, gluten- and dairy-free ingredients. These organic ingredients include quinoa[1], chia seed, flax seed, pumpkin seed protein, and peas. This protein powder also contains digestive enzymes such as lactase, cellulase[2], lipase[3], and amylase. Protease[4] and amylase are the digestive enzymes that help your gut to digest this protein powder easily. It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee; therefore, you can receive a full refund if you experience unsatisfactory results. Enjoying a protein shake from this vegan protein powder nourishes your body with balanced essential amino acids.
PlantFusion Complete Plant Protein
This is one of the best plant-based protein powders for sensitive stomachs. It is easy on your stomach since it contains high-potency digestive enzymes.
- Contains digestive enzymes
- Vegan friendly
- GMO-free
- No artificial sweeteners
- Contains proprietary blends
This is among the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs. It contains all-natural ingredients and is free from any artificial flavors. This plant-based protein powder is made of organic superfoods, artichokes[5], algae[6], and peas[7] which work synergistically to increase and sustain energy levels. This top-rated protein powder contains branched amino acids[8] (4g), salt, iron, potassium, and calcium. The brand claims that consuming a protein shake from this product offers the body additional amino acids for muscle recovery, repair, and growth. This protein powder is designed for easy digestion since it is free from most allergens and contains significant digestive enzymes. PlantFusion Complete is free from artificial sweeteners and flavors; therefore, you can be sure each protein shake contains completely organic ingredients.
LYFE Fuel Daily Essentials Shake
This nutritious dietary supplement is among the best protein shakes since it contains over twenty whole foods. It comes as a protein shake and is very gentle on a sensitive stomach.
- Third-party tested
- Contains superfoods
- Contains natural ingredients
- Low-carb content
- Relatively pricey
This is one of the best plant-based protein powders that offer numerous health benefits to the user. It contains bountiful whole foods that work harmoniously to boost focus and energy and promote the overall health and wellness of the body. The brand claims this plant-based protein supplement contains scientifically and clinically supported natural ingredients. The company uses a sustainable sourcing process and a meticulously delicate drying technique to get rid of moisture from whole foods while ensuring all essential nutrients remain intact. This manufacturing method ensures the supplement is easily digested and absorbed in the stomach. LyfeFuel Daily protein shake also contains fiber and fats that ensure you feel full for longer, preventing unwanted weight gain. The protein shake is packed with bountiful antibiotics, antivirals, and antioxidants that promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. Ranked with the best protein shakes, this brand also offers other blends, including CoEnzyme Q10, Organic Green Blend, vitamin K2, Colony Forming Units (CFU), and Digestive Enzyme Blend. This supplement is suitable for people with sensitive stomachs since it is allergen-free and Non-Gmo.
Orgain Organic Protein & Superfoods Plant-Based Protein Powder
This dietary supplement is delicious and made of bountiful high-potency ingredients that boost overall health and health and wellness. It is an excellent option for sensitive stomachs since it contains plant-based proteins and is USDA certified.
- Vegan friendly
- Contains bountiful whole foods
- USDA certified
- Free from major allergens
- Has erythritol, a synthetic sweetener
This is among the best plant-based protein supplements. It contains brown rice, peas, chia seeds[9], a gram of sugar, and three grams of organic dietary fiber. Each scoop of this protein powder offers you fifty all-natural whole foods. The product is packed with ancient grains, sprouts, greens, grasses, herbs, and vegetables. These food sources are packed with vitamins C and B6, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, iron, and thiamin. Other ingredients include tart berries, strawberries[10], mango, pineapple, cranberry[11], and acai[12]. This protein powder supplement, however, contains erythritol, a synthetic sugar alcohol that might trigger insulin resistance, gut dysbiosis, and gastric upset. If you have no sensitivity to alcohol or sugar, this protein powder is an excellent post- and pre-workouts for smoothies, morning shakes, nourishment beverages, and weight control. It can speed up lean muscle growth and recovery.
Vega Sport Premium Plant-Based Protein Powder
This plant-based protein supplement is packed with bountiful probiotics that are significant for gut health. It is vegan-certified, Non-GMO, and gluten-free.
- Contains probiotics
- Vegan certified
- Gluten-free
- No additional sugars
- It is pricey
This is an excellent option if you have a sensitive stomach and are looking for pre-and post-workout protein supplements. It has a solid reputation for containing high protein content, which is necessary to boost athletic and exercise performance and promote muscle repair, recovery, and restoration. This dietary supplement contains peas, sunflower seeds[13], alfalfa[14], black pepper[15], turmeric, tart cherries, and billions of CFU probiotics[16]. It also contains branched amino acids, 5 g, which promotes muscle recovery and development[17]. The company’s user-friendly website appeals to the user with a vast range of recipes, such as smoothies. Though on the more expensive spectrum than most protein powders, this product is worth its salt.
GNC Pro Performance Whey Protein Powder
This supplement stands out from most protein powders due to its high protein content. It dissolves easily and contains third-party tested ingredients.
- Informed sport certified
- High protein content
- Easy to mix
- Third-party tested
- Promotes weight loss
- Expensive
- Confusing nutritional label
This dietary supplement has high protein content compared to most similar protein powders. It contains natural ingredients and undergoes rigorous third-party testing to guarantee purity, safety, and efficacy. You can add this supplement to your favorite smoothie or beverage to boost your daily recommended protein intake. It is among the best whey protein powders since it contains natural flavors from organic sources. Numerous glowing reviews indicate that this whey protein supplement mixes easily, therefore, can be added to yogurt, oatmeal, and other preferred meals.
Why Does Protein Powder Upset Your Stomach?
These dietary supplements can upset your stomach due to a variety of reasons, as listed and briefly explained below:
- Excessive consumption of protein supplements. Men’s and women’s recommended daily protein intake is 56 and 46 grams, respectively. Taking too much whey protein isolate powder, whey concentrate, or similar supplements can overload your gut. Consuming more than enough does not allow your digestive tract enough time to digest completely.
- You have a sensitive stomach problem. You might be lactose intolerant or allergic to other ingredients in the supplement. Also, people with celiac disease[18] might be in for a rough ride if they consume a supplement that is not gluten-free. Always read the ingredients label to make sure you are not allergic to any.
- Wrong timing. You might experience a stomach ache for consuming it at the wrong time. For instance, immediately after exercising, all the energy when exercising is directed to the brain, lungs, ligaments, and muscles. This makes the gastrointestinal tract slow down due to stress, hence a stomach upset.
- Consuming too fast. Downing a protein shake too quickly might make you swallow air, resulting in bloating, stomach ache, and abdominal discomfort.
How To Choose The Best Protein Powders For Sensitive Stomachs
The following are various factors to consider when choosing the most suitable dietary supplements for a sensitive stomach:
- Form of protein supplementation
- Protein source
- Additional ingredients
- Third-party testing
- Brand reputation
Tips To Avoid An Upset Stomach From Protein Powders
The following are tips that might prevent stomach aches from consuming protein powders:
- Consult a healthcare provider; suppose you have underlying sensitivities or intolerances
- Make sure the supplement is clean and the recommended daily protein intake
- Consume your protein shake slowly, especially after a high-intensity workout
- Choose all-organic protein supplementations
- Consume food rich in protein to avoid using excessive dietary supplements to create muscle mass
Final Thought
Six of the leading manufacturers have given your search for a protein powder that won’t make you sick a head start. Whey protein isolates or powders from grass-fed cows may also be helpful for a sensitive stomach.
Micellar casein upsets the stomachs of those with sensitive stomachs since it is so difficult to digest. Whey proteins are likewise simple to digest and gentle on the stomach, including whey isolate and whey protein powder. One thing to keep in mind is that these and other protein powder supplements should never be used to replace meals. In addition to your protein supplements, you should consume natural protein sources from protein-rich foods like cow’s milk, almond milk, lentils, and fatty fish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
High doses might cause reduced appetite, nausea, headaches, lethargy, increased bowel movements, thirst, etc.
These supplements help build lean muscle mass, produce hormones and enzymes, promote weight loss, boost immune health, and improve overall health and wellness.
Yes, you can. The list described above aims to ensure people with sensitive tummies know that there are stomach-friendly dietary supplements.
Excessive consumption of these supplements, drinking protein shakes too fast, wrong timing, and other dietary intolerances.
Minors, pregnant and nursing women, people with an underlying medical condition, and people using any prescribed drugs.
The main ones are the source of protein, additional ingredients, product form, and third-party testing.
This is a personal preference.
One thing to keep in mind is that these and other protein powder supplements should never be used to replace meals. In addition to your protein supplements, you should consume natural protein sources from protein-rich foods like cow’s milk, almond milk, lentils, and fatty fish.
+ 18 sources
MIDSS adheres to strict procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutes, and medical associations. We work mainly with peer-reviewed studies to ensure the accuracy of the information. We avoid the use of tertiary references. You can read about how we ensure the accuracy and timeliness of our content in our editorial process.
- Carpio, T.A., Carrillo, V.R., Carlos Luis Carpió and Carrillo, I. (2016). Analysis of protein isolate from quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa willd). [online] ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299378617_Analysis_of_protein_isolate_from_quinoa_Chenopodium_quinoa_willd#:~:text=Results%3A%20A%20yield%20of%206.29,near%20130%20kDa%20was%20found. [Accessed 7 Feb. 2023].
- Malik, W.A. and Javed, S. (2021). Biochemical Characterization of Cellulase From Bacillus subtilis Strain and its Effect on Digestibility and Structural Modifications of Lignocellulose Rich Biomass. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, [online] 9. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2021.800265.
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- Cieslik, E., Agnieszka Gębusia, Florkiewicz, A. and Mickowska, B. (2011). The content of protein and of amino acids in Jerusalem artichoke tubers (Helianthus tuberosus L.) of red… [online] ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221734481_The_content_of_protein_and_of_amino_acids_in_Jerusalem_artichoke_tubers_Helianthus_tuberosus_L_of_red_variety_Rote_Zonenkugel [Accessed 7 Feb. 2023].
- Bleakley, S. and Hayes, M. (2017). Algal Proteins: Extraction, Application, and Challenges Concerning Production. Foods, [online] 6(5), p.33. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6050033.
- Babault, N., Païzis, C., Deley, G., Guérin-Deremaux, L., Saniez, M.-H., Lefranc-Millot, C. and Allaert, F.A. (2015). Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, [online] 12(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5.
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