This article contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
If you're looking for the best protein powders for bulking, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss the 22 best protein powders for bulking in 2022. Protein powder is an important part of any bulking diet, and it's essential that you choose a product that will help you reach your fitness goals.
We'll go over everything from whey protein to casein protein, and we'll even recommend some top-rated brands. So whether you're just starting out or you've been lifting weights for years, read on for the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect protein powder.
Cellucor Whey Sport
MomentousEssential
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein Powder
Vital Proteins
Orgain Organic
Legion Plant+ Vegan
TRU Plant
Vega Sport
Isagenix IsaPro
Muscle Milk
Naked Whey
Amazing Grass Protein
Rule One
Dymatize ISO 100
Ascent Native Fuel
Natural Force Grass Fed
MRM Nutrition
Garden of Life Meal Vanilla Powder
RSP Nutrition AvoCollagen
Who should use protein powders?
Protein powders can be beneficial for people who want to build muscle mass, particularly if they are not getting enough protein from their diet. They can also be helpful for athletes and bodybuilders who need to rapidly rebuild muscle after strenuous exercise.
Protein powders are not necessary for everyone, but they can be a helpful addition to the diet for some people. When choosing a protein powder, it is important to read the label carefully and choose one that is right for your individual needs.
There are many different types of protein powders on the market, so it can be confusing to know which one to choose. We've created a list of the best protein powders for bulking to help you better know the top 22 options out there.
What are the different forms of protein available?
The three main forms of protein powders are whey, casein, and soy. Whey is a dairy product that is quickly absorbed by the body, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. Casein is also a dairy product, but it is slowly absorbed and can be helpful for people who want to maintain their muscle mass while sleeping.
Soy protein is a plant-based protein that is popular among vegans and people with dairy allergies. There are also many different flavors of protein powders available, so you can choose one that best fits your taste preferences. Some of the most popular flavors include chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
When choosing a protein powder, it is important to consider your individual needs and goals. If you are looking to build muscle mass, you may want to choose a powder with a higher protein content. If you are trying to lose weight, you may want to choose a powder with fewer calories.
No matter what your goals are, there is a protein powder out there that can help you achieve them. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose a powder that is right for your individual needs. With so many options available, you are sure to find one that you love.
This list of the best protein powders for bulking can help you narrow down your options and choose the right powder for your goals.
1. Elm & Rye Protein Supplement
Image courtesy Elm & Rye
Elm & Rye can produce protein that tastes better and is more effective because of high-quality ingredients. Protein is made from grass-fed organic cattle, such as cattle, sheep, and goats, which live on ruminant farms in the United States or Canada where they have access to good food all year.
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a class of three important amino acids known as leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They're required - that is, they can't be made by the body and must be consumed - and they're thought to promote muscle growth, decrease muscular tiredness, and help with exercise recovery.
Supplements aren't all created equal. Elm & Rye sends their products to third-party laboratories for testing and evaluation on a regular basis. Then they publish the results in full transparency.
2.Penguin CBD Protein Powder
Penguin CBD Protein Powder is a premium dietary supplement designed to combine the benefits of high-quality, organic CBD with the nutritional advantages of protein in one convenient package. Crafted with care from organically grown hemp, this protein powder offers a delicious and versatile way to infuse your daily routine with the potential wellness benefits of cannabidiol. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast looking to support muscle recovery or simply seeking to enhance your overall well-being, this product provides a natural and balanced approach to incorporating CBD into your wellness regimen, all while enjoying the goodness of protein in a variety of flavors. Penguin CBD Protein Powder is committed to quality, ensuring a clean and enjoyable addition to your active lifestyle.
3. Crazy Nutrition’s Tri-Protein
Crazy Nutrition’s Tri-Protein packs some pretty amazing bulking power into a tri-stage protein-release formula. First off, this formulation utilizes 6 proteins for maximized protein synthesis. It’s designed to deliver 3x muscle growth and recovery, while suppressing appetite at the same time. It’s also made with digestive enzymes to make it easier on the gut (in other words, no bloating or gas), and deploys a unique 3-phase absorption method to help fuel and sustain you for the long term. It ships with a 100% satisfaction, 60-day money-back guarantee. What’s not to love?
4. Cellucor Whey Sport
Image courtesy Cellucor
Cellucor Whey Sport is a tasty, protein-packed drink that includes 25 grams of protein per cup and glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Cellucor Whey Sport is ideal for athletes who want to gain muscle, lose weight, or improve their general health.
They think that everyone should have the opportunity to live a full and active life. That's why they provide goods that are both safe and efficient for all users. They also provide a satisfaction guarantee so you may try items with assurance.
5. Momentous Essential
Image courtesy Momentous
Athletes may benefit from Essential Red, which is a protein shake that features momentous proportions. It contains high-quality components and is supported by science.
The 25 grams of protein in Momentous Essential Red, along with glutamine and BCAAs, make it an ideal post-workout recovery drink. It's also low in carbs and fat. Sportsmen and women looking to build muscle, lose fat, or improve their general health should choose Momentous Essential Red.
6. Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein Powder
Image courtesy Garden of Life
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein Powder is a plant-based sports nutrition product. It's based on sound science and uses high-quality materials.
Garden of Life Organic Vegan Sport Protein Powder is a vegan protein powder from Garden of Life that has 25 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Athletes who want to build muscle, lose fat, or maintain their general health may benefit from this protein powder for bulking.
7. Vital Proteins
Image courtesy Vital Proteins
Athletes will benefit from taking Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides, which is a protein powder that contains collagen peptides. It's produced with high-quality materials and has been researched.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a protein supplement that includes 25 grams of protein per dose, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbs and fat. Collagen Peptides from Vital Proteins is an excellent choice for athletes who want to gain muscle.
8. Orgain Organic
Image courtesy Orgain
The drink is made from Orgain's vegan protein powder, which is a plant-based protein supplement that's intended for athletes. It contains high-quality ingredients and has been studied.
A protein-rich shake called, "Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder," contains 25 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It is also low in carbohydrates and fat.
9. Legion Plant+ Vegan
Image courtesy Legion
Legion Plant+ Vegan Protein Powder is a plant-based protein supplement intended for athletes. It includes high-quality ingredients and has been studied.
Plant+ Vegan Protein Powder from Legion is low in carbohydrates and fats, with 25 grams of protein per serving. It's also low in carbs and fat. Plant+ Vegan Protein Powder is a fantastic alternative for athletes wanting to gain muscle, lose fat, or improve their overall health.
10. TRU Plant
Image courtesy TRU
Taurine is an organic compound that occurs naturally in the body and aids in nerve and heart function. It promotes muscle contractions by binding to calcium ions, which then produce a signaling molecule called cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP).
The TRU Plant Protein Powder is a plant-based protein powder that has 25 grams of protein per 100 g. It also contains glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Athletes who want to gain muscle, lose weight, or improve their general health should use the TRU Plant Protein Powder.
11. Vega Sport
Image courtesy Vega Sport
Vega Sport Protein Powder is a plant-based protein powder that's meant to be consumed by athletes. It's based on science and has high-quality components.
Vega Sport Protein Powder is a high-quality protein powder that contains 25 grams of protein per serving and glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Athletes looking to bulk up, lose weight, or improve their general health might find Vega Sport Protein Powder to be an excellent option.
12. Isagenix IsaPro
Image courtesy Isagenix
Isagenix's IsPro Protein Powder is a high-quality whey protein powder that has been created for athletes. It contains high-quality components and is based on research.
Isagenix IsaPro Protein Powder includes 25 grams of protein per meal, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Isagenix IsaPro Protein Powder is a wonderful option for athletes wanting to gain muscle, lose fat, or improve their general health.
13. Muscle Milk
Image courtesy Muscle Milk
Muscle Milk Protein Powder is a whey protein powder created for athletes. It's based on sound science.
Muscle Milk protein powder has 25 grams of protein per scoop and is also high in glutamine and BCAAs. It's low in carbs and fat, too. Athletes who want to increase muscle mass, lose fat, or improve their overall health should try Muscle Milk Protein Powder.
14. Naked Whey
Image courtesy Naked
Naked Whey Protein Powder is a whey protein powder used by athletes. It's produced with high-quality ingredients and has been scientifically tested.
Nude Whey Protein Powder has 25 grams of protein per serving and is also high in glutamine and BCAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Naked Whey Protein Powder is an excellent option for athletes wanting to bulk up, slim down, or maintain their health in general.
15. Amazing Grass Protein
Image courtesy Amazing Grass
Protein superfood from Amazing Grass is a plant-based protein powder meant for athletes. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has been clinically tested.
Amazing Grass Protein Superfood is a high-protein, low-carb, and low-fat brand of dog food. It also contains glutamine and BCAAs. Amazing Grass Protein Superfood is ideal for athletes wanting to gain muscle or lose fat.
16. Rule One
Image courtesy Rule 1
Rule One Protein Powder is a whey protein supplement made for athletes. It's based on sound science and includes high-quality ingredients.
Rule One Protein Powder has 25 grams of protein in each scoop, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbs and fat. Rule One Protein Powder is ideal for athletes seeking to build muscle, lose fat, or improve their overall health.
17. Dymatize ISO 100
Image courtesy Dymatize
Dymatize ISO 100 Protein Powder is a whey protein supplement that is formulated for athletes. It contains high-quality ingredients and has been proven by science.
Dymatize ISO 100 Protein Powder is a protein supplement that includes 25 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Dymatize ISO 100 Protein Powder is ideal for athletes who want to build muscle, lose weight, or improve their general health.
18. Ascent Native Fuel
Image courtesy Ascent
The Ascent Native Fuel Protein Powder, which is a whey protein powder designed for athletes, is produced with high-quality ingredients and has been studied.
Ascent Native Fuel Protein Powder has 25 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and calories.
19. Natural Force Grass Fed Organic
Image courtesy Natural Force
Natural Force Grass Fed Protein Powder is a whey protein powder designed for athletes. It has high-quality components and is based on science.
Natural Force Grass Fed Protein Powder includes 25 grams of protein per serving and glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Natural Force Grass Fed Protein Powder is a fantastic alternative for athletes who want to build muscle, reduce weight, or maintain their general health.
20. MRM Nutrition
Image courtesy MRM Nutrition
MRM Nutrition Protein Powder is a whey protein powder developed for athletes. It's made with high-quality ingredients and based on research.
MRM Nutrition Protein Powder is a high-quality protein powder that provides 25 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It's also low in carbohydrates and fat. Athletes wanting to bulk up, lose weight, or improve their general health should consider MRM Nutrition Protein Powder.
21. Garden of Life Meal Vanilla Powder
Image courtesy Garden of Life
Meal Vanilla Powder from Garden of Life is a whey protein shake for athletes. It's made with high-quality components and has scientific evidence to back it up.
The Garden of Life Meal Chocolate Powder has 20 grams of protein per serving, as well as glutamine and BCAAs. It is also low in carbohydrates and fat. Athletes who want to gain muscle or reduce body fat or improve their overall health might benefit from using Garden of Life Meal Vanilla Powder.
22. RSP Nutrition AvoCollagen
Image courtesy RSP
This best protein powder for bulking is a one-stop shop for your whole nutrition needs. It can be used as a breakfast, mid-morning snack, or supper to provide you with balanced nourishment including 25 g grass-fed whey protein and 12 fruits and vegetables in each serving. Get all of the essential ingredients, including probiotics.
The entire blend of grass-fed whey protein and amino acid content has fast absorbability, allowing for quicker recovery from exercise. Feel more content between meals as a result of the rapid digestibility of whole blends.
Our Criteria For Ranking The Best Protein Powders:
Protein Source and Quality: We assess the protein source used in the product, ensuring it is derived from high-quality ingredients. Whey, casein, plant-based (e.g., pea, soy), and other sources are evaluated for their amino acid profiles and overall protein quality.
Protein Content: The protein content per serving is a critical factor. We favor products with a higher protein-to-calorie ratio, providing a substantial dose of protein without excess calories or fillers.
Ingredient Transparency: We prioritize products that provide clear and transparent ingredient lists, avoiding artificial additives, fillers, and excessive sugars. Clean, minimal ingredient profiles are preferred.
Taste and Texture: Sensory appeal matters. We consider user feedback on taste, texture, and mixability to ensure the product is enjoyable and easy to incorporate into a daily routine.
Dietary Compatibility: We account for dietary restrictions and preferences, favoring products that cater to various dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options.
Allergen Information: Clear labeling of potential allergens (e.g., soy, nuts, dairy) is crucial for consumer safety. We assess how well products communicate allergen information.
Digestibility: Protein powders should be easy on the digestive system. We consider user reviews and the presence of digestive enzymes to determine how well the product is tolerated.
Bioavailability: We evaluate the protein's bioavailability and absorption rate, focusing on products that offer a high degree of protein utilization by the body.
Third-Party Testing: Independent third-party testing for quality, purity, and safety is a significant criterion. We favor products that undergo rigorous testing for contaminants and meet established quality standards.
Brand Reputation: We consider the brand's reputation, history, and commitment to quality. Brands with a track record of consistency and transparency are given higher consideration.
Value for Money: The cost per serving is assessed in relation to the quality and quantity of protein provided. We look for products that offer good value without compromising on quality.
User Reviews and Feedback: Real-world experiences matter. We incorporate user reviews and feedback to gauge overall satisfaction, efficacy, and any potential issues.
Flavor and Variety: A variety of flavor options and product varieties (e.g., isolate, concentrate, blend) is taken into account to cater to diverse taste preferences and dietary goals.
Packaging and Sustainability: We assess packaging for sustainability and eco-friendliness, considering the environmental impact of the product.
Nutritional Extras: Some protein powders offer additional nutritional benefits like added vitamins, minerals, or functional ingredients. We evaluate the value of these extras.
By applying these criteria, we aim to provide consumers with a comprehensive guide to selecting the best protein powders that align with their specific dietary, fitness, and taste preferences while ensuring quality and safety.
Final Thoughts on 22 Best Protein Powders for Bulking
In conclusion, finding the best protein powder for bulking can be overwhelming, but the benefits are worth it. Protein is essential for muscle growth and recovery, and these powders offer a convenient and effective way to increase protein intake. While there are numerous options on the market, the top choices for bulking include whey protein isolate, casein protein, and soy protein isolate. Additionally, some plant-based protein powders like pea protein and hemp protein are gaining popularity. Studies have shown that increasing protein intake can significantly improve muscle mass and strength. For example, a study of older adults found that supplementing with whey protein increased muscle mass by 5.5% and strength by 8% in just 6 months. Another study found that consuming casein protein before bed increased muscle protein synthesis by 22% overnight. When choosing a protein powder, it is important to consider factors such as taste, texture, and protein content per serving. Many protein powders are also fortified with additional nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. The best protein powders for bulking offer high-quality protein sources, minimal fillers or additives, and a good balance of amino acids. Overall, the best protein powders for bulking are those that are easily digestible and provide a complete amino acid profile. While whey protein isolate and casein protein are popular choices, soy protein isolate and plant-based options like pea protein and hemp protein are also effective. By incorporating a high-quality protein powder into a balanced diet and exercise routine, individuals can optimize their muscle growth and achieve their fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Protein Powders
What is protein powder, and why is it used? Protein powder is a dietary supplement that provides a concentrated source of protein, a vital nutrient for muscle repair, growth, and overall health. It is commonly used by athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals looking to increase their protein intake.
What are the different types of protein powder available? There are several types of protein powders, including whey, casein, soy, pea, rice, and hemp protein. Each type has its unique characteristics, such as digestibility and amino acid profile.
How do I choose the right protein powder for my needs? Consider your dietary preferences, allergies, and fitness goals. Whey protein is popular for muscle building, while plant-based options like pea or soy protein are suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
How should I use protein powder? Protein powder can be mixed with water, milk, or blended into smoothies. The timing of consumption varies; some prefer it post-workout, while others use it as a meal replacement or snack. Follow the recommended serving size on the product label.
Can protein powder help with weight loss? Protein can aid in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and supporting lean muscle mass. However, it's essential to incorporate it into a balanced diet and exercise regimen for optimal results.
Is there a recommended daily intake of protein powder? The recommended daily protein intake varies depending on factors like age, gender, and activity level. As a guideline, the average adult may need around 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, which can partially be met through protein powder.
Can I use protein powder as a meal replacement? Protein powder can be used as a meal replacement, but it's generally advisable to combine it with other nutrients to create a balanced meal. Consult a nutritionist for personalized guidance.
Are there any side effects associated with protein powder consumption? When consumed within recommended limits, protein powder is generally safe for most people. However, excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys and cause digestive discomfort. Stay within the recommended dosage and drink plenty of water.
Can protein powder expire? Yes, protein powder can expire, and its shelf life depends on factors like storage conditions and the presence of preservatives. Check the product's expiration date, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Are there any allergies or sensitivities to be aware of with protein powder? Some individuals may have allergies or intolerances to specific protein sources, such as whey or soy. Always read labels and choose a protein powder that suits your dietary needs and restrictions.
Can I use protein powder while pregnant or breastfeeding? It's generally safe to use protein powder during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your specific dietary needs during this period.
Do I need to exercise to benefit from protein powder? While protein powder is often associated with fitness, it can be part of a balanced diet for individuals with various activity levels. Exercise enhances its muscle-building and recovery benefits, but it's not a strict requirement for consumption.
