If you struggle to stomach conventional protein powders, or just fancy a change, there’s an alternative that’s more squash than shake. Here’s our pick of the best clear protein powders.
If you’re looking to up your protein intake, there are a variety of protein bars and as well as the best protein powders on the market. However, the new kid on the block within the world of supplements for muscle growth – clear protein powders – offer a lighter, more refreshing way to boost your muscle recovery.
What are clear protein powders?
More fruit squash than chocolate milkshake, these protein powders are easy to mix, light and refreshing.
Unlike traditional whey protein powders that mix into a milky, opaque shake, clear whey mixes into a transparent, squash-like drink. Here’s a closer look at what makes clear whey protein distinct:
- Processing: Clear whey protein undergoes a different filtration process that removes most of the fats and lactose, resulting in a cleaner and purer protein product. This process leaves behind a whey protein isolate, which is then formulated to dissolve clearly in water.
- Appearance and taste: As the name suggests, clear whey protein dissolves into a clear, translucent liquid, resembling a fruit drink rather than a creamy shake. This makes it a refreshing alternative for those who prefer lighter beverages, especially post-workout. The flavors available are often fruit-based.
- Protein content: Despite its different form, clear whey protein packs a strong protein punch, often providing around 20 grams of protein per serving. It’s effective for muscle recovery and growth, similar to traditional whey protein supplements.
- Digestibility: Many users find clear whey protein easier to digest compared to standard whey protein powders. The filtration process reduces lactose content, making it a suitable option for individuals with mild lactose intolerance.
- Versatility: Clear whey protein can be a versatile part of your nutrition plan. It’s easy to mix with water, making it convenient to prepare and consume on the go, without the heavier texture associated with traditional milkshake-like protein powders.
It’s still an emerging product, so you won’t find the huge range on offer for more conventional powders, but to help you make the right choice we’ve rounded up five of the most effective clear whey protein powders on the market right now.
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1. PhD Smart Clear Whey
Taste: 5/5
Protein: 4.5/5
Texture: 5/5
OVERALL: 5/5
Quite simply the best of the clear protein powders we tested, PhD’s refreshing Smart Clear Whey is high in protein (20g per serving) but low in both sugar (less than 1g) and calories (85kcals).
Try the Orange Margarita flavour for a dose of great-tasting hot-weather recovery.
2. Naturecan Clear Whey Protein Isolate
Taste: 4/5
Protein: 4.5/5
Texture: 5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5
From a company committed to high-quality ingredients, Naturecan’s clear protein contains nothing but natural goodness in the form of 21g protein per serving, zero sugar, zero fat and just 85 calories.
The juicy Tropical flavour gets MF’s seal of approval.
3. Bulk Clear Whey Isolate Protein
Taste: 4.5/5
Protein: 4.5/5
Texture: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5
A competitive 20g protein per serving means Bulk’s offering stands up to most whey powders, and each of the fruity flavours (Cherry Bomb gets the nod for us) are perfectly suited to the heat of summer. One of the best clear protein powders on the market.
4. Myprotein Clear Whey Isolate
Taste: 4/5
Protein: 4.5/5
Texture: 4/5
OVERALL: 4/5
Made from high-quality hydrolysed whey protein isolate, My Protein’s offering comes in 11 flavours and packs 20g protein per serving, as well as 4g performance-boosting branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and 3g immune-boosting glutamine, making it one of the best clear protein powders on test.
5. The Protein Works Clear Diet Whey
Taste: 4.5/5
Protein: 3.5/5
Texture: 4/5
OVERALL: 4/5
Three cocktail-inspired recipes make up TPW’s range of clear protein powders, with each providing 16g protein per serving, along with BCAAs and energy-boosting green tea extract.
For anyone trying to trim down for summer, there’s also an impressive return of less than 70 calories.
What is clear
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