7 Best protein powders for Teens (Reviewed & Ranked)
By Evander Nelson | Updated on June 4, 2023
Transparent Labs
Evander’s Quick Summary 💭
You know, I’ve tried a lot of protein powders in my time, and let me tell you, finding the best protein powders for teens is no easy task. 🧐
But after much research and firsthand experience as a personal trainer, I can confidently say that #1 on my list is Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate.
This low-sugar protein powder has everything a teen needs: a solid amount of amino acids, great taste, and easy mixability.
Plus, it’s made from high-quality whey protein isolate, which is perfect for supporting muscle growth and overall health.
I review products independently but I might earn affiliate commissions if you decide to buy items through links on this page.
Did you know that protein is a crucial building block for our muscles, bones, and skin?
As teenagers, you are going through some major growth spurts, and that’s why it’s essential to fuel your bodies with the right nutrients.
So as a personal trainer, I decided to explore the world of the best protein powders for teens. 🕵🏻♂️
In this article, we’ll go through the top protein powder options, their pros and cons, and some essential factors to consider when choosing the right one for your needs.
I’ll also share some personal experiences and insights to help guide your decision.
Let’s jump right in and find the best protein powder for teens like you! 💪🏼
Top things I look for when reviewing a Protein Powder For a Teen
| Nutrients | Unsweetened and healthy |
| Taste/Flavour | A flavor explosion (without being sugary) |
| Mixability | Easy to mix into shakes and dishes |
| Price/Value | Affordable |
So What is The Best Protein Powder for Teens?
My Top Rankings
#1 Transparent Labs – Best Overall
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is hands down the best protein powder for teens. 💯
It’s packed with 28 grams of protein per serving and contains all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and recovery.
Not to mention, it tastes fantastic and mixes easily with water or milk. 🥛
I remember when my niece started using it, and she couldn’t believe how quickly she saw improvements in her athletic performance.
And, let’s talk about the value for a second – this protein supplement offers a high-quality product at a reasonable price, which makes it an excellent choice for teens who are still growing and need that extra protein intake.
Evander’s take:
I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate, and I can’t recommend it enough for teens looking to improve their athletic performance and support healthy growth. 📈
The high-quality whey protein isolate and essential amino acids make it an ideal choice, and the taste and mixability are just icing on the cake.
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
In conclusion, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is the best protein powder for teens due to its high-quality ingredients, great taste, and easy mixability.
The protein supplement provides all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and recovery, making it perfect for teens who need that extra protein intake.
The only real downside is the limited flavor options and availability, but overall, it’s an excellent choice for any teen looking to up their protein game.
#2 Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard – Best for Hunger
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
Now, let me tell you about another great protein powder that I use daily – Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder.
This one is an all-time favorite for many people, and I can see why. 😍
It boasts 24 grams of protein per serving, coming from a blend of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides.
This mix provides a great balance of essential amino acids and other nutrients that support muscle growth and recovery. ✅
I’m a big fan of the taste and mixability of this protein powder, and can only describe it as having a dessert without the guilt.
And when it comes to value, it’s pretty hard to beat the Gold Standard – you get a high-quality product at a competitive price.
If you want to learn more about optimum Nutrition you should check out my review.
Evander’s take:
I personally think Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is an excellent choice for teens who are looking to increase their protein intake and support their active lifestyles.
I’ve seen the positive impact it’s had on my own performance and recovery, and I believe it can be a great addition to any teen’s nutritional regimen, especially those who engage in regular physical activities or sports. 🏈
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
Gold Standard from Optimum Nutrition is a solid choice for every teen.
It tastes like a dessert 🍧 but healthy and can be mixed with tons of ingredients and dishes (though it tastes just as good with water).
Optimum Nutrition has more than 22 flavors so there is definitely one for every teen’s taste buds.
#3 Naked Whey Protein Powder – Best for Quick Results
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
I have to say, Naked Whey Protein Powder is another one of those protein supplements that has caught my attention. 🧐
What makes it stand out is its simplicity and commitment to quality.
Made from grass-fed whey protein concentrate, it delivers 25 grams of protein per serving, which is just what you need to fuel your muscle growth.
It’s also a great source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that are essential for muscle building and recovery.
I remember when I first tried the chocolate peanut butter flavor, I was impressed by how natural it tasted, without any artificial sweeteners or additives.
And you know what? It mixes well too!
When it comes to value, Naked Whey Protein Powder is a bit more expensive than some popular protein powders (like Optimum Nutrition), but I think it’s worth it for the high-quality, natural ingredients. ✅
Evander’s take:
I really like Naked Whey Protein Powder and think it is great for teens. Especially for teens who prefer more natural and clean protein supplements without artificial sweeteners.
The grass-fed whey concentrate and rich BCAA content make it an excellent choice for muscle growth and recovery.
It may be a bit more expensive, but I believe it’s worth the investment for teens who value high-quality, natural ingredients. 💰
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
In conclusion, Naked Whey Protein Powder is an excellent option for teens seeking a high-quality, natural protein supplement.
With its grass-fed whey protein concentrate and rich BCAA content, it provides the necessary nutrients for muscle growth and recovery.
As I said before, it may be slightly more expensive than other popular protein powders, but the commitment to natural ingredients and the absence of artificial sweeteners make it a top choice for health-conscious teens.
#4 Ritual Essential Protein – Best for Lactose Intolerant
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
I’ve got to tell you about Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+. It’s a unique protein supplement designed specifically for people 18 years and older. 🔞
With 20 grams of pea protein per serving, it’s perfect for those who want an alternative to whey protein.
What’s more, it’s packed with essential amino acids and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that promote muscle growth and recovery.
I’ve personally spoken to a friend who’s lactose intolerant and he told me that this protein shake mixes easily and tastes great, even without artificial sweeteners.
The value for the price is quite reasonable, considering the quality of ingredients and the targeted age group.
Evander’s take:
I think Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is a fantastic option for teens who are 18 years old and looking for a plant-based alternative to whey protein.
The pea protein, essential amino acids, and BCAAs make it a great choice for muscle building and recovery.
My lactose-intolerant friend has had a great experience with it, and I’d definitely recommend it to teens with similar dietary preferences or restrictions.
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
In conclusion, Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is an excellent plant-based protein supplement specifically designed for people aged 18 and older. With its high-quality pea protein, essential amino acids, and BCAAs, it supports muscle growth and recovery. 💪🏼 Though it may not be suitable for teens under 18 or teens who prefer whey protein powders, it’s an ideal choice for older teens seeking plant-based protein supplements with great taste and mixability.#5 Ora Organic Vegan Protein – Best for Vegans
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
Next up on the best protein powder for teens list is another fantastic plant-based protein powder that I recently discovered: Ora Organic Vegan Protein.
It’s an excellent choice for teens who prefer vegan protein sources or have dietary restrictions.
With 22 grams of protein per serving, derived from a blend of pea, rice, and hemp proteins, it provides all the amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair.
I have a vegan cousin, and she swears by the taste and mixability of this vegan protein powder 🤤.
It’s also free from artificial sweeteners and additives, which is a huge plus for health-conscious teens.
While it might be a bit pricier than some other protein powders, I believe the value you get from the quality ingredients is worth it.
Evander’s take:
I really like Ora Organic Vegan Protein and would recommend it for teens.
Especially teens who are looking for plant-based protein sources or have dietary restrictions.
My vegan cousin has had great success with it, and I believe it can be a fantastic option for those who want to avoid animal-based protein while still getting all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth.
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
Ora Organic Vegan Protein is an excellent plant-based protein powder for teens who want a high-quality protein supplement without animal-derived ingredients.
With its blend of pea, rice, and hemp protein, it offers all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair.
Just like the Ritual Essential protein powder, this one may be slightly more expensive than other protein powders for teens, but the commitment to quality ingredients and the absence of artificial sweeteners make it a top choice for health-conscious teens. 💯
#6 Kaged MicroPure Whey Protein – Best for Cutting
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
Next up on the list is a fantastic whey protein isolate powder that I recently came across: MicroPure Whey Protein Isolate Powder by Kaged.
This protein powder is a great choice for teens who are looking to build muscle mass while maintaining a lean physique.
With 25 grams of protein per serving, it’s a complete protein source that offers all the amino acids required for muscle protein synthesis.
My gym buddy raves about the taste, especially the chocolate peanut butter and vanilla peanut butter flavors.
It’s also gluten-free and soy-free, making it suitable for teens with specific dietary needs. Plus, it mixes easily and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors.
Overall, the value you get for the price is pretty impressive. 👌🏻
Evander’s take:
I like MicroPure Whey Protein Isolate Powder from Kaged and recommend it for teens who are focused on building muscle mass and maintaining a lean physique.
My gym buddy has had excellent results with it, and the taste is fantastic.
I would recommend it to teens who want a high-quality, gluten-free, and soy-free whey protein isolate.
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
To sum up, MicroPure Whey Protein Isolate Powder – Kaged is an excellent choice for teens seeking a high-quality whey protein isolate that’s gluten-free and soy-free. ✅
With 25 grams of protein per serving and all the amino acids needed for muscle growth, it’s perfect for those looking to build muscle mass.
The delicious flavors and absence of artificial flavors make it a top pick for teens who want a tasty, effective protein powder supplement.
#7 PaleoPro Protein Powder – Best for Paleo/Gluten-free Diet
Nutrients
Taste/Flavour
Mixability
Price/Value
Last but most certainly not least I have got to tell you about this unique protein powder I discovered recently: PaleoPro Protein Powder.
It’s perfect for teens who follow a paleo or gluten-free diet, and it’s made from a blend of grass-fed whey, chia seeds, and digestive enzymes. 🌱
This combination provides a balanced source of protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle growth and weight management.
It boasts 26 grams of protein per serving, including all nine essential amino acids for muscle protein synthesis.
My cousin, who is kind of a fitness nerd, loves the cinnamon French toast flavor and finds it mixes well.
He’s noticed improvements in his muscle recovery and daily protein intake since he started using it.
Evander’s take:
think PaleoPro Protein Powder is a fantastic option for teens following a paleo or gluten-free diet.
My cousin has had great success with it, and the cinnamon French toast flavor really sets it apart.
I would recommend it to teens who need a balanced, high-quality protein powder that supports muscle growth and weight management. ✅
Pros
Cons
Bottom line
PaleoPro Protein Powder is an excellent choice for teens who want a high-quality, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly protein powder.
With 26 grams of protein per serving and all nine essential amino acids, it’s perfect for supporting muscle growth and weight management.
The unique flavor options and the combination of grass-fed whey protein, chia seeds, and digestive enzymes make it a top pick for teens seeking an effective and delicious protein powder supplement.
Protein Powder Picks for Parents
As someone who’s gone through the journey of finding the right protein powder for both my nephew and some clients, I understand how overwhelming it can be.
Fear not, though!
I’m here to share my personal experience and help you navigate the process of choosing the best protein powder for teens. 🧭
The ABCs of Amino Acids
Amino acids play a crucial role in protein powders. ⚠️
They are the building blocks of proteins, and some are essential, meaning our bodies can’t produce them on their own.
When my client was looking for a protein powder, I made sure it contained all the essential amino acids to support his muscle growth and recovery.
💡A personal tip: Look for products with a complete amino acid profile. It made all the difference for him!
Battle of the Protein Powders: Whey vs. Casein
In our quest for the perfect protein powder, we learned that understanding the difference between whey and casein protein powders is essential.
Whey protein is fast-digesting, making it ideal for my nephew’s quick post-workout recovery.
Casein, on the other hand, is slow-digesting and provides a steady flow of amino acids, which could be perfect for a bedtime snack. 💤
Based on his active lifestyle, we chose whey protein, but I believe casein can be beneficial in specific situations.
Protein for Plant Eaters
If you’re considering a vegan or plant-based option, there are plenty of protein powders available.
My best friend’s daughter is vegan, and she had success with pea, rice, and hemp proteins.
When choosing a plant-based protein powder for teens, ensure it has a complete amino acid profile, as some plant-based options may be lacking in certain essential amino acids.
Blending different plant-based proteins worked wonders for her and ensured a complete amino acid profile. 🍃
Food for Thought
Nutrition plays a vital role when selecting the best protein powder for teens.
Look for protein powders with a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats, and avoid those with added sugars and artificial ingredients.
When I was helping my client find a protein powder, we focused on his specific dietary needs and preferences, like gluten-free and soy-free options.
Luckily, we found a fantastic whey protein isolate that met all his requirements, and he’s been thriving ever since!
Teenage Protein: Yay or Nay?
If you are wondering if you need to take protein as a teen the short answer is no. Nothing bad will happen if you don’t. The long answer, however, is yes! And here is why:
Assists with Gainz
From my experience, protein plays a crucial role in building muscle and supporting muscle recovery, especially for active teens.
During adolescence, their bodies are growing, and the demand for nutrients, including protein, is higher. (1)
When my nephew started working out, adding a protein supplement to his diet helped him build lean muscle mass, recover faster, and improve his overall athletic performance.
As long as it’s coupled with a balanced diet and exercise, a protein supplement can be beneficial for teens.
Crucial for Veggie and Vegan Teens
My best friend’s daughter is vegan, and we discovered that finding the right protein sources can be challenging for teens on a plant-based diet. 🍃
Adding a vegan protein powder to her meals helped her meet her daily protein needs without compromising her dietary choices.
It’s essential to ensure that vegetarian and vegan teens receive adequate protein to support their growth and development.
Keeps You from Being Hangry
Teens often have voracious appetites, and I’ve seen how protein can help curb hunger and keep them feeling full for longer. 😋
When my nephew began incorporating protein shakes into his diet, he noticed that he was less likely to snack on unhealthy options between meals.
Protein is an essential macronutrient that contributes to satiety, so adding a protein supplement can help manage hunger and support healthier food choices.
Can you overdo the protein?
It’s worth noting that excessive protein intake can be harmful. 🚨
When helping my nephew find the right protein supplement, I made sure to keep his daily protein intake in check.
Too much protein can lead to digestive issues, and kidney problems, and even inhibit calcium absorption.
It’s essential to balance protein intake with other nutrients and not rely solely on supplements for daily nutrition.
Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate protein intake for your teen’s specific needs and lifestyle. 👨🏼⚕️
Tips for Teen Titans
Daily Intake
It’s crucial to determine the right amount of daily protein intake for your teen.
You are probably wondering how much protein is enough. Well, I learned that a general rule of thumb is to consume about 0.8 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, depending on activity level.
When my nephew started working out, we consulted a nutritionist who helped us calculate his daily protein requirements, ensuring that he was getting enough protein from both food and supplements without overdoing it.
Protein Timing
Proper protein timing can make a significant difference in muscle growth and recovery.
I found that consuming protein shortly after a workout helps maximize muscle mass growth and protein synthesis. (2)
When my nephew started weight training, we made sure he had a protein shake within 30 minutes after his workout to support muscle repair and growth.
Also, it’s essential to spread protein intake throughout the day to ensure the body has a steady supply of amino acids for various functions. (3)
Protein Mix
Variety is the spice of life, and it applies to protein sources as well.
When searching for the best protein powder for my nephew, I discovered that combining different protein sources, such as whey, casein, and plant-based proteins, provides a broader range of essential amino acids and promotes better absorption.
We experimented with different blends and found a mix that suited his taste buds and nutritional needs.
Mixing protein sources can also help prevent boredom and make it easier for you to stick to your protein schedule.
The End of This Protein Party
To sum it up, the best protein powder for teens is one that meets their nutritional needs, tastes great and supports their overall health.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate stands out as the top choice due to its high-quality ingredients and suitability for various dietary preferences.
Happy protein powder hunting! 😎
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