7 Best Low-Carb Keto Protein Powders for Ketosis 2022 Reviews | KetoVale
Keto Protein Powder Reviews

What Are the Best Tasting Low-Carb and Ketogenic Protein Powders and Shakes?

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With the choice between so many protein powders, it can be hard to select the right one. Do you know which protein powder best fits your situation and needs?

Did you know that some of the presumably low-carb proteins are not really keto-friendly? Well, we will explain that a little bit later as well as sharing with you the products and brands you should go for based on our research and what thousands of people in our keto community love and recommend.

In a rush? Check our recommendation for the best keto protein powders!

​In this non-biased article, you’ll discover which protein powder will deliver optimal results for you, so you can select the best product and boost your progress towards health and fitness goals.

But first, ​why ​is ​getting ​enough ​protein ​so important?

The Benefits of Protein Powder

While the world of nutrition brims with contradictions, there’s one thing all experts agree on: getting enough protein is crucial for health and well-being. But why is that so?

Well, there are various reasons why it’s important to get enough protein. The following are six of the many benefits associated with consuming an adequate amount of protein.

Weight loss: One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that when subjects increased their daily protein intake from 15% to 30% of their daily calorie intake, they lost, on average, 11 pounds in 12 weeks (1).

Satiety: The reason protein aids weight loss is because the macronutrient is highly satiating. Hence, protein is so satiating that when subjects of the study mentioned above raised their protein consumption from 15% to 30% of their daily calorie intake, they consumed, on average, 441 fewer calories a day – unconsciously (2).

Muscle mass: Protein is the primary building block of muscle. That’s why getting enough of it is essential for the maintenance, growth, and recovery of your muscles.

Hormonal health: Many of your hormones are made from amino acids (protein). We call these “peptide hormones.” Insulin is an example of such hormone. To support optimal levels of th​ese peptide hormones, you must supply your body with enough protein.

Brain function: Most neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) are made from amino acids, the building blocks of protein. To aid neurotransmitter production – and thereby support brain functioning and energy levels – you must supply your body with enough protein.

Stronger bones: Multiple studies show that people who eat more protein tend to have stronger bones and a reduced risk of fractures and osteoporosis as they age (3, 4).

As we’ve seen, getting enough protein is crucial for your health, well-being, and body shape. But what if you can’t get enough of it? In that case, protein powder can offer the solution.

Protein powder is a convenient way to consume more protein, especially if you ​need it for a pre-workout or post-workout in the gym. It usually contains a minimal number of calories from carbs (and fat) and thereby fits a ketogenic diet well.

Protein powder can also be a cost-efficient way to get enough protein. Hence, if you select the right product, protein powder is often cheaper on a per-gram basis than whole foods such as meat and fish.

The Best Forms of Protein Powder

There are many different protein powders on the market: whey, casein, egg white, beef, soy, and on goes the list. But do you know which one is optimal for your situation and goals? Well, for most people, the following ​options are optimal:

Whey Protein

Whey is a fast-digesting, high-quality protein powder derived from milk. It contains an excellent amino acid profile and is particularly rich in leucine. The latter is great for athletes because the amino acid leucine has powerful effects on mTOR, the primary muscle-building pathway in your body. That’s why whey is excellent at supporting muscle growth and aiding recovery from strenuous workouts (5, 6).

Whey is also one of the cheapest options. And according to multiple studies, it has the highest bioavailability among protein powders ​(7, 8, 9​).

Casein Protein

Casein is another option that’s derived from milk. Due to that reason, casein also has an excellent amino acids profile and bioavailability. The main difference between casein and whey, however, is that casein digests at a much slower rate. For that reason, the hunger-curbing effects of casein last longer, and it’s better at aiding weight loss. Casein is particularly beneficial before bed as it supplies your body with amino acids throughout the entire night. 

Egg ​White ​Protein

Egg protein is another excellent option, in particular for those who can’t consume a dairy-based protein powder due to a dairy allergy or being lactose intolerant. Similar to whey and casein, egg protein has an excellent amino acids profile and scores very high in leucine. Egg white protein powder digests at a moderate speed, which makes it a good choice around your workouts, before bedtime, and as a supplement to aid weight loss. 

Collagen ​Protein​

​Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body (25%-35% of your body protein content). It’s a non-inflammatory protein that aids in energy production, building muscles, detoxification, and digestion. Collagen protein is necessary for rebuilding healthy skin, joints, tendons, nails, hair, and more… which regular protein powders can’t do (10, 11, 12).

Beef Protein​

Beef protein is another type of protein powder that is derived from beef. Studies have shown its effectiveness for fat loss and increase in lean muscle mass just like whey protein (13).

What About Plant-Based Protein Powders?

How about plant-based protein powders such as soy and hemp? Well, unless you’re a vegetarian or intolerant to both milk and egg protein, we don’t recommend plant-based protein powders. They’re usually low in leucine, have an inferior bioavailability, and tend to have an incomplete amino acid profile. Additionally, many plant-based protein powders contain ingredients that aren’t keto-friendly or contain too many carbs to be eaten on a low-carb diet. 

The Most Keto-Friendly Protein Powders Reviews

If you follow a ketogenic diet, this particular section is for you. The best thing about keto is that you don’t need a lot of protein compared to other high-protein diets as we explain in this guide. Therefore, a protein powder container should last you longer on keto.

The main difference between choosing a product for keto diet and low-carb diets is the ingredients. Ketogenic way of eating is more about ingredients. Just because something is low carb doesn’t always make it keto-friendly.

​Most low carb protein powders contain ingredients such as soy, sugar, artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, milk powder, vegetable oils, which don’t make them belong to the keto-approved list.

If you are on a strict ketogenic diet, these ​3 products are the ones we recommend after many hours of digging and searching for the best keto protein powders with keto-friendly ingredients.

So if you are living the keto lifestyle and ingredients matter a lot to you (not just the carb amount), here are the ​3 products we recommend:


#1. Perfect Keto’s Collagen Peptides Hydrolyzed Protein Powder

Keto Collagen is made of 100% grass-fed collagen peptides from USA cattle. It’s our top choice for women. The best part is that each serving also has 5 grams of pure MCT oil powder, which helps to raise blood ketone levels.

The best thing about Perfect Keto’s products is that they are completely clean and doctor developed. They are known for creating top-notch ketogenic supplements.

Many women choose this product because not only it provides the quality protein with great taste, but also helps them improve their hair​, nails, and skin. Some told us that their skin feel soft, smooth​, more full and glowing and ​their hair & nail growth is amazing.

The ingredients are: hydrolyzed collagen powder and MCT oil powder as the main ingredients and cocoa powder and stevia leaf powder for taste. It has NO soy,  gluten, dairy, or artificial sweeteners.

The 100% all-natural cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate flavor along with many health benefits of chocolate. Stevia is a plant-based keto-approved sweetener that is easily digested has no effect on your blood sugar.

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (15g): 4g fat, 10g protein, 1g carbohydrate and 80 calories.

Keto Collagen can be mixed easily with smoothies, shakes, coffee or any low carb drinks without blender required. It tastes phenomenal and makes a great meal replacement shake for both men and women.

We use this to make high protein, healthy fat, low carb shakes for weight loss​. You can check the recipes on our website.

Pros:

  • 100% Grass-fed premium source of protein.

  • Contains MCT which raises blood ketones and improve focus and mental clarity

  • 100% natural - No artificial sweeteners or any harmful stuff

  • Supports gut health, digestion, and detoxification

  • Increases fat-oxidation and boost energy for exercise

  • Great for skin, nails, hair, joints, tendons, cartilage, organs, etc...

  • Delicious taste with a variety of flavor choices.

  • Fast shipping & great customer service

Cons:

  • Small ​container

#2. Julian Bakery’s Paleo Protein Double Chocolate Powder Grass Fed Beef

As the name describes, Julian Bakery's Paleo Protein Grass Fed Beef Protein Double Chocolate version is made from grass-fed beef protein that is tested free of antibiotics and hormones. It is sourced from actual GMO-free lean grass-fed meat.

This product has a delicious sweet chocolate taste. You can think of it as beef jerky powder that tastes like fudge.

Even though its name says Paleo protein, it’s actually 100%  low-carb and keto-friendly. Moreover, it’s gluten free and soy free.

You can use it in your drinks, smoothies, protein pancakes or baking recipes. You can make low carb milkshakes with this protein. All you need is to add some unsweetened coconut milk, almond milk or simply just plain water and some ice cubes.

The ingredients are: grass-fed beef protein (from pastured cows raised without hormones and antibiotics), cocoa powder, chocolate extract, vanilla extract, organic stevia leaf extract, sea salt.

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (30g): 1g fat, 25g protein, 2g carbohydrate and 108 calories.

Pros:

  • 100% grass-fed beef

  • Non-GMO

  • Free of hormones and antibiotics

  • Delicious and sweet chocolate taste

  • No soy, no lactose

Cons:

  • H​igh natural sodium (3​05 mg sodium per serving)

​#3. Ancient Nutrition Keto Protein

Ancient Nutrition is a well-known company developed by Dr. Josh Axe. This keto protein powder is powered by organic chicken bone broth and hydrolyzed bovine collagen. 

It also contains keto-friendly MCT from coconut, apple cider vinegar, and an antioxidant blend that includes organic coffee fruit extract.

This protein powder is flavored with natural vanilla and maple flavor, stevia, monk fruit. The fermented herbs assist with digestion, which can help you absorb the nutrients better.

The ingredients are: organic chicken bone broth oil and concentrate, hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, organic chicken protein concentrate, coffee cherry extract, MCTs from coconut, monk fruit extract, stevia leaf, natural vanilla and maple flavor, and the following fermented herbs and spices: ashwagandha, ginger, black pepper, and mushrooms.

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (31 grams): 170 calories, 11 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbs, and 15 grams of protein.

Pros:

  • Contains 15 grams of protein from hydrolyzed bovine peptides and organic chicken bone broth
  • Contains electrolytes to support hydration, including calcium, sodium, and potassium
  • Contains MCT from coconuts to support ketosis
  • Contains an anti-inflammatory antioxidant herb blend to support immunity and digestion 
  • Contains apple cider vinegar to help reduce inflammation
  • Contains natural sweeteners, such as vanilla and maple extract, stevia, and monk fruit
  • Contains organic coffee cherry extract for energy 
  • Comes in several different flavors, including vanilla, maple, chocolate, turmeric, peanut butter, banana, and coffee

Cons:

  • ​Can be more expensive than other protein powders

The Best Low Carb Protein Powders

This list is perfect for those who are on low-carb diets and non-strict keto (lazy keto or if it fits your macros style). In other words, you only want the cleanest protein possible with the least carbs content per serving.

When you spend your hard-earned money, you want to get the best quality for your money. We understand that. The problem?

Most protein products on the market are low-quality. They’re loaded with sugar, carbs, fillers, and coloring agents, which can impair ketosis and hamper health.

Fortunately, there are a few protein powders on the market that are very low in carbohydrates and contain high-quality protein that supports your health and fitness goals to the fullest. What follows are four low carb protein powder products of the highest standard.


​#1. NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate

This clean and pure whey protein product was voted the "Best Sports Supplement" by Whole Foods Magazine in 2005 and 2006. Each serving (28 grams) delivers 25 grams of the highest standard protein and contains no artificial ingredients.

Each serving contains less than one gram of carbs, which makes this product fit the ketogenic diet well. (On the other hand, many whey protein products contain three times carbs, or even more.)

What’s more, the whey protein powders by NOW Sports are evaluated monthly by a quality control team of certified chemists, nutritionists, and technicians for verification and guaranteed purity. So you can rest assured you're supplying your body with a clean and pure product.

The ingredients are: Microfiltered whey protein isolate and soy lecithin (<1%)

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (28g): 0.5g fat, 25g protein, <1g carbohydrate and 110 calories.

Pros:

  • High-quality protein powder that’s rich in leucine

  • Fast digesting, making it a perfect post-workout choice

  • Quality control tested

  • Low carb

  • Affordable price

  • Non-GMO

  • Mixes instantly

  • Naturally unflavored

Cons

  • Sub-optimal for weight loss (due to fast digestion rate)

  • Taste

  • Some people concern about soy lecithin


​#2. Julian Bakery’s Paleo Thin Protein Egg White Powder

If you're looking for an egg white protein powder, then this product by Julian’s Bakery is your best option.

It’s derived from egg whites of USA-based chickens that are cage-free and fed a non-GMO diet. It contains just two ingredients: egg white powder and a tiny bit of sunflower lecithin. The latter ensures the egg white fully dissolves in your protein-packed smoothie.

Sunflower lecithin fits a ketogenic diet well and can support cardiovascular, brain, and liver health.

The ingredients are: egg white powder and sunflower lecithin.

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (30g): 0g fat, 25g protein, 1g carbohydrate and 108 calories.

Pros:

  • High-quality grade egg whites protein powder that’s rich in leucine

  • Fast digesting, making it a perfect post-workout choice

  • Low carb

  • Non-GMO

  • Free off sweeteners, fillers, and coloring agents

  • Mixes well

Cons:

  • Taste

  • High Natural Sodium


​#3. Bulksupplements’ Pure Casein Protein Powder

​Bulksupplements is known to create high-quality, pure powders at an affordable price. This casein protein powder lives up to those standards. It contains an excellent amino acid profile, is unflavored, and is free of any additives and fillers.

This product is particularly great for those who want to lose weight because the satiating effects of casein last the longest of all protein powders.

It’s also an excellent pre-bed supplement because casein digests slowly and thereby delivers your muscles with amino acids throughout the entire night, allowing for optimal recovery and growth.

The ingredients are: Micellar casein and soy lecithin (emulsifier)

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (30g): <1g fat, 26g protein, <1g carbohydrate and 112 calories.

Pros:

  • High-quality protein powder that’s rich in leucine
  • Clean & pure powder
  • Slow digesting, making it perfect weight loss and as a pre-bed muscle growth supplement
  • Low carb
  • Very rich in calcium
  • Free off sweeteners, fillers, and coloring agents
  • Mixes well

Cons:

  • Suboptimal pre- and post-workout (due to slow digestion rate)

  • Doesn’t mix instantly


​#4. Isopure Zero Carb Whey Protein Powder

Isopure offers a wide range of 100% pure whey protein isolate powders. Each serving supplies you with 25 grams of high-quality protein in addition to added vitamins and minerals that support your health and performance.

It’s available in 16 delicious flavors, of which seven are carb-free. The zero carb flavors are Alpine punch, apple melon, banana cream, creamy vanilla, pineapple orange, strawberries & cream, and the unflavored powder. (Wow, the strawberries & cream is delicious and refreshing!)

All variations contain added vitamins, minerals, and the amino acid glutamine, with the exception of the unflavored powder. Glutamine supports gastrointestinal health, can ​support leaky gut, and acts as a neurotransmitter that aids focus, memory, and concentration.

The ingredients are: Whey protein isolate, soy lecithin, vitamin and mineral blend, L-glutamine, artificial flavor, freeze-dried strawberry powder, Red 3, sucralose, and xanthan gum.

Macros per serving of 1 scoop (31g): 0g fat, 25g protein, 0g carbohydrate and 100 calories.

Pros:

  • High-quality protein powder that’s rich in leucine

  • Fast digesting, making it a perfect post-workout choice

  • Available in 16 delicious flavors of which 7 contain zero carbs

  • Delicious tastes

  • Contains added vitamins and minerals

  • Contains extra glutamine

  • Gluten-free and lactose-free

Cons:

  • Sub-optimal for weight loss (due to fast digestion rate)

  • A few flavors are high in carbs

  • Contains artificial flavor and sweetener

So, What’s the Best Protein Powder?

Well, you can’t go wrong with all our top recommended products outlined above. They’re all of the highest standards and will help you reap the fantastic benefits protein has to offer.

However, if you want to get the biggest bang for your buck, you should choose a product that's optimal your needs. Below you’ll find the best protein powders for the four most common fitness and health goals.

What’s your primary health and fitness goal right now? Click on the product that best fits your needs for optimal results.

​Your need: Best tast​ing low carb protein powder that’s specifically designed for keto diet with awesome healthy fats that support digestion, gut, skin, hair and joins health as well as building muscle and raising ketone levels​, then go for:

=> Perfect Keto’s Collagen Peptides

​Your need: Low carb protein powder for weight loss ​and aiding fat loss and preventing weight regain, then go for:

=> Bulksupplements Pure Casein Protein Powder

Your need: Boosting muscle growth and athletic performance, then go for:

=> Isopure Zero Carb Whey Protein Powder

Your need: Supporting health and well being​, then go for:

=> NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate


​​How To Make Keto ​Protein Meal Replacement ​Shakes

​The problem with premade ​and ready-​to-​drink ​protein ​shakes such as Premier Protein shakes and other brands is that even though some of them ​​are ​low carb, ​they have ingredients such as ​sunflower ​oil, artificial sweeteners and ​artificial ​flavors, etc..., which make them not ​the best choice for strict dieters. 

​Store-bought products can be ​convenient for low carb dieters but if you want something clean and keto-friendly, it's best to make your own ​keto protein shakes and low carb milkshakes using the recipes below.

Keto chocolate protein shake

​Keto ​Chocolate ​Protein ​Shake Recipe

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1-2 scoops of ​keto protein powder
  • 1/2 cup ice
  • 1/3 cup water (if ​needed)
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tbsp erythritol (or any keto sweeteners)
  • 5 almonds (optional, for nutty taste)

Direction: Simply ​blend all ingredients together​ and enjoy!


Berries Low Carb Milkshake

Low Carb ​Berries Milkshake Recipe

  • 1 cup unsweetened ​coconut milk (light)
  • 1-2 scoops of low carb protein powder
  • 1/​3 cup strawberries or raspberries or blueberries, fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 cup ice
  • 1/3 cup water (if ​needed)
  • ​1/2 tbsp erythritol​

Direction: Simply ​blend ​it well until smooth​ and enjoy!

You can use a light version of coconut milk ​as opposed to full fat coconut milk. ​If using full fat coconut milk, only use 1/3 of a cup and dilute it in water.

Please note that coconut milk is not the same as coconut water (coconut juice) as coconut water is full of sugar, just like any other fruit juice.

​If you use heavy cream when making your own homemade shakes, make sure to watch for the calories and your macros. It depends on ​your preferred consistency but normally, you should need about 1/3 cup of heavy cream and dilute it with 1 cup of water when making this. So get your hands on these Keto-Friendly Protein Powders and start making your own low carb shakes from home! It's super tasty, healthy and rewarding.

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