Best Protein Powder For Teens: 7 Top Options To Consider 2023
Reviewed by Drew Sutton, MD
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| Product | Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate | Naked Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder | Jacked Factory Authentic Whey |
| Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 stars |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 stars |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 stars |
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Selecting a quality protein powder can take up time and energy you don’t have, which is why we’ve done all the leg work for you by creating this article and outlining the top protein powder options for teens! We’ve chosen only the best powders on the market, so you only have to choose between seven. Each protein powder reviewed here has unique selling points that will make it more suitable for specific individuals.
Toward the end of this article, we will discuss the benefits and some need-to-know information about protein powders, so keep reading to find out questions you may be asking yourself about protein!
Best Protein Powder For Teens In 2023
- Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate – Editor’s Choice
- Naked Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder – Best Grass-Fed Whey
- Jacked Factory Authentic Whey – Best For Athletes
- PlantFusion Complete Plant-Based Protein Powder – Best Value
- Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Protein Powder – Best Organic Protein
- Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods Powder – Best For Gut Health
- Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein & Greens – Best Plant-Based Protein
Should Teens Take Protein Powder?
The use of protein powder and protein supplements among teens is a controversial topic, as there are potential risks and benefits to consider. While protein is an essential nutrient for growth and development, it is generally recommended that teens get their protein from whole food sources such as lean meats, eggs, nuts, and legumes, rather than supplements.
Most teenagers[1] who follow a healthy and balanced diet do not need to take a protein supplement, as they can get sufficient protein from food alone. However, there may be situations where protein supplements are warranted, such as in cases of intense athletic training or insufficient protein intake due to dietary restrictions or food allergies.
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before giving protein powder to a teenager, as it may not be suitable for all individuals. Excessive protein intake can lead to dehydration, digestive problems, and kidney damage[2], especially if the teen has an underlying medical condition.
Best Protein Powder For Teens In 2023
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
If you’re searching for a protein powder that packs the best bang for your buck, then Transparent Labs has you covered!
- Flavor variety
- No artificial sweeteners
- High protein-by-weight ratio
- Stevia flavor
Our number one pick for the best protein powder for teens is Transparent Labs’ 100% grass-fed whey protein isolate. This popular protein powder contains one of the industry’s highest protein-by-weight ratios at nearly 90%. Each 32 g scoop contains a whopping 28 g of protein whey concentrate. Each serving includes a total of 120 calories, 2 grams of total carbohydrates, and one gram of dietary fiber. The company takes extra steps to ensure you’re only adjusting the best protein available, as their cows are naturally fed and hormone-free. You don’t have to worry about unnecessary artificial sweeteners, artificial coloring, or artificial preservatives.
Additionally you don’t have to worry about choking down bland-tasting protein as the company makes a variety of flavors, including milk chocolate, chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon French toast, strawberry, chocolate peanut butter, cinnamon French toast, strawberry, mocha, vanilla peanut butter, French vanilla, and oatmeal chocolate chip cookie.
Naked Nutrition Grass-Fed Whey Protein Powder
If you’re willing to pay a little bit more for a top-notch protein powder, then Naked Nutrition has a product you’ll want to check out!
- Heavy metal testing of products
- No artificial sweeteners
- GMO-free, soy-free, gluten-free
- Price
Naked Whey is an easy choice for those who value a company that goes the extra mile to ensure its products are ethically produced. For example, the company states that their cows spend more days freely roaming pastures than cows raised in the Midwest. In addition, Naked Whey chooses to use dairy farms that are smaller in size than Northern care California and Idaho. Each serving of this powder, two scoops, contains 25 g of protein, 3 g of carbohydrates, and 120 calories. Of the 25 g of protein in each serving, 5.9 g are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). Additionally, these protein powders contain no additives or artificial sweeteners.
Naked Nutrition produces four types of their way protein, a Grass-fed unflavored option, a chocolate whey protein powder, a vanilla whey protein powder, and a strawberry whey protein powder option.
Jacked Factory Authentic Whey
With a 100% money-back guarantee, a good protein to volume content, and a variety of flavors, Jacked Factory is a homerun for those looking to try a new protein product.
- Manufactured in cGMP and FDA-registered facility
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Five different flavor options
- Stevia extract flavored
After a hard workout, your muscles need the protein to build and repair; Jacked Factory has a protein powder that packs 24 g of protein per serving into their product. Their protein powders contain a pure whey protein isolate and a whey protein concentrate. Jacked Factory whey protein is produced in high-tech cGMP and FDA-registered facilities, so there is minimal risk of unwanted cross-contamination. Each serving of this whey protein contains 120 calories, 1 gram of total carbohydrates, and 2 grams of total fat.
You won’t dread taking this protein powder, as the company has produced five great-tasting options. The flavors include vanilla, fruity cereal splash, salted chocolate caramel, orange ice cream, and chocolate. In addition, this product is reasonably priced and is backed by a 100% hassle-free money-back guarantee.
PlantFusion Complete Plant-Based Protein Powder
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- Vegan protein option
- Five flavor options
- Non-GMO
- Less protein per serving than animal protein powders
PlantFusion has one of the best plant based proteins on the market. They combine a high quality product with extreme affordability at only $18.51 for your first order!
For some, whey proteins can cause bloating and abdominal issues; for these individuals, check out plant fusion which has created a plant-based protein that is easy to digest. Since this product is plant-based it is perfect for vegans and suitable for those who want to avoid gluten and GMO products. Each scoop of this product contains 21 grams of protein, 120 calories, and 2 grams of carbohydrates. Of the 21 grams of protein, there are 4 grams of Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). The company has also added 100mg of digestive enzymes to ensure you don’t have digestive issues consuming this product and that there is maximal protein absorption.
There are five different flavor options: creamy vanilla bean, Rich chocolate, red velvet cake, a natural option with no Stevia, and a cookies and cream option.
Ora Organic So Lean & So Clean Protein Powder
Ora’s Organic So Lean & So Clean Protein Powder has everything you could ask for in a plant-based protein powder including good protein concentrations and a delicious vanilla flavor!
- USDA organic
- Vegan
- Green and superfood blend
- Price
Ora has created a protein powder product that really shines. They have combined 21 g of high-quality plant protein in every two scoops of their product. Every two scoops also include 120 cal and 4 g of carbohydrates, of which 1.1 g is dietary fiber. This company goes beyond quality protein by adding a superfoods and greens blend for added nutrition. They have also included an oral enzyme blend to aid in the digestion of their ingredients. Protein powder is moderately priced but contains sweeteners, which may not appeal to some. The sweeteners contained in this protein include Stevia, Monk Fruit extract, and natural vanilla flavoring.
Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods Powder
For an all around great protein powder and superfood product it’s hard to beat Orgain. A balanced protein, carbohydrate, and fat content make this suited for those not wanting to lose weight.
- 6 grams prebiotic and fiber
- Organic and vegan
- Non-GMO
- High carbohydrates for protein powder
Orgain Organic Protein Powder is ideal for post-workout recovery as it contains proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in appreciable quantities. A serving of this product which is two scoops, contains 5 g of total fat, 20 g of total carbohydrates, and 21 g of protein. The product is USDA organic and doesn’t contain GMOs or gluten. The protein in this product is derived from pea protein, brown rice proteins, and Chia seeds. The product also includes an organic berries and fruit blend, organic greens, grasses, and sprouts blend, and an organic veggies and herbs blend.
Although the flavor options are limited to chocolate and vanilla, the flavors in this protein pack a delightful punch that will have you looking forward to the subsequent dosing of this protein.
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein & Greens
Ora’s Organic So Lean & So Clean Protein Powder has everything you could ask for in a plant-based protein powder including good protein concentrations and a delicious vanilla flavor!
- Vegan
- 6 organic greens and veggies
- 1.5 billion CFU probiotics
- Protein per serving
If you’re searching for the best vegan protein to make into your protein shakes, the Garden of Life’s RAW Protein and Greens powder is our choice!
Garden of Life has made a well-rounded and adaptable protein powder, whether you’re taking it just after a workout or to supplement your current nutrition. Each serving of this product is packed with 20 g of high-quality plant proteins and 4 g of total carbohydrates, of which 1 g is dietary fiber, 3 g of total fat, and 130 calories. This product is entirely free of dairy, soy, and animal-based products. Along with a generous portion of protein, users will also get 1.5 billion CFUs of probiotics and 13 non-GMO enzymes to aid digestion. Garden of Life has also included six organic greens and veggies in this powder.
The Vanilla and Chocolate Cacao flavors are customer favorites that customers indicate are devoid of artificial flavors and tastes.
What Is Protein Powder?
Protein powder is a dietary supplement that is commonly used by athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts to increase their protein intake. It is made by extracting protein and essential amino acids from various sources such as milk, whey, soy, and plant-based sources like pea, rice, and hemp.
Protein is an essential nutrient, composed of amino acids that plays a vital role in building and repairing muscles, bones, skin, and other tissues in the body. Protein powder provides a convenient and easy way to increase protein intake, especially for people who have a hard time getting enough protein from their regular diet.
There are different types of protein powders available in the market, such as whey, casein, soy, pea, and rice protein powders. Each type of protein powder has its unique benefits and properties, which may make it suitable for different dietary preferences and fitness goals.
Protein powder can be consumed in various ways, such as mixing it with water or milk, adding it to smoothies or baked goods, or taking it in capsule form.
How Protein Powders Work
Protein powders are an effective way to supplement one’s diet with additional protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles[3], as well as maintaining bone health[4] and other body tissues.
When protein powder is consumed, the protein molecules are broken down into individual amino acids by the digestive system. These amino acids are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to different parts of the body where they are used for various functions.
When a person engages in physical activity such as weightlifting or endurance training, they create microscopic tears in their muscles. Protein powder can help repair and rebuild these muscles by providing the necessary amino acids.
Additionally, protein powders can also help with satiety and weight management[5] by providing a sense of fullness and reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks.
The type of protein powder used can also impact how it works in the body. For example, whey protein[6] is quickly absorbed and provides a rapid source of amino acids, while casein protein is slower to digest and can provide a more sustained release of amino acids.
Overall, protein powders work by providing the body with an additional source of protein to support muscle repair, bone health, and other body functions.
Benefits Of Protein Powder For Teens
Protein powder can provide several benefits for teens who are engaging in intense physical activity, such as sports or weightlifting. It can help support muscle growth and repair, improve athletic performance[7], and aid in recovery after exercise. Additionally, protein powder can be a convenient and easy way for teens with busy schedules to meet their daily protein requirements.
However, it is important to note that most teens can obtain sufficient protein from whole food sources, and excessive protein intake can be harmful. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before giving protein powder to a teenager to ensure it is safe and necessary for their specific situation.
Final Thoughts
Protein powders are not necessary for every teen, but some teens may benefit from adding a protein powder into their diet. There are a variety of protein powder options available, with pros and cons to each one. Whether you’re searching for a whey protein option or a vegan protein option, you can’t go wrong with selecting one of our top seven protein powders for teens!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Muscle growth and repair, improved athletic performance, aid in exercise recovery.
Excessive protein intake can lead to dehydration, digestive problems, and kidney damage[8].
Lean meats, eggs, nuts, and legumes.
+ 8 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.
- Huang, M.-C., Chen, M.-E., Hung, H.-C., Chen, H.-C., Chang, W.-T., Lee, C.-H., Wu, Y.-Y., Chiang, H.-C. and Hwang, S.-J. (2008). Inadequate Energy and Excess Protein Intakes May Be Associated With Worsening Renal Function in Chronic Kidney Disease. Journal of Renal Nutrition, [online] 18(2), pp.187–194. doi:https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2007.08.003.
- Lemon, P.W.R. and Proctor, D.N. (1991). Protein Intake and Athletic Performance. Sports Medicine, [online] 12(5), pp.313–325. doi:https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-199112050-00004.
- Lambers, T.T., van den Bosch, W.G. and de Jong, S. (2013). Fast and Slow Proteins: Modulation of the Gastric Behavior of Whey and Casein In Vitro. Food Digestion, [online] 4(1), pp.1–6. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s13228-012-0028-7.
- Paddon-Jones, D., Westman, E., Mattes, R.D., Wolfe, R.R., Astrup, A. and Westerterp-Plantenga, M. (2008). Protein, weight management, and satiety. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 87(5), pp.1558S1561S. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/87.5.1558s.
- Darling, A.L., Millward, D.J., Torgerson, D.J., Hewitt, C.E. and Lanham-New, S.A. (2009). Dietary protein and bone health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 90(6), pp.1674–1692. doi:https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.2009.27799.
- Doering, T.M., Reaburn, P.R., Phillips, S.M. and Jenkins, D.G. (2016). Postexercise Dietary Protein Strategies to Maximize Skeletal Muscle Repair and Remodeling in Masters Endurance Athletes: A Review. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, [online] 26(2), pp.168–178. doi:https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2015-0102.
- Huang, M.-C., Chen, M.-E., Hung, H.-C., Chen, H.-C., Chang, W.-T., Lee, C.-H., Wu, Y.-Y., Chiang, H.-C. and Hwang, S.-J. (2008). Inadequate Energy and Excess Protein Intakes May Be Associated With Worsening Renal Function in Chronic Kidney Disease. Journal of Renal Nutrition, [online] 18(2), pp.187–194. doi:https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2007.08.003.
- Duellman, M.C., Lukaszuk, J.M., Prawitz, A.D. and Brandenburg, J.P. (2008). Protein Supplement Users Among High School Athletes Have Misconceptions About Effectiveness. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, [online] 22(4), pp.1124–1129. doi:https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0b013e31817394b9.
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