We don’t need to tell you that a shake is a popular way to hit your daily protein goals. Hate thick shakes? Enter clear whey protein: a lighter, fruity protein-packed drink which boasts all the nutritional benefits of your classic whey protein powder.
“Clear whey is a filtered form of whey protein isolate that mixes into a juice-like drink rather than a creamy shake,” explains a registered nutritionist and consultant with Healthspan, Rob Hobson. “It’s still a high-quality, complete protein, but it doesn’t have the milky texture or heaviness you get from traditional protein powder.”
And research suggests there are plenty of nutritional benefits to clear whey protein, too. “It’s great both pre- and post-workout when you want something quick to sip on while your muscles recover and rebuild,” says menopause fitness coach and founder of Owning Your Menopause, Kate Rowe-Ham. “Plus, it’s low in sugar and carbs, which can be helpful if you’re balancing energy, mood or are trying to lose weight”.
So, if you’re looking to up your protein intake, the next step is finding a flavour to suit. Thankfully, we’ve tested a number of the most popular and nutritionist-approved clear whey proteins. And, as always, only the highest-scoring made it into our shortlist. So, read on for our favourites, as well as answers to all your protein FAQs.
Clear whey protein FAQs, answered:
Disclaimer: Keep in mind that this article isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice, and our recommendations won’t replace a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
Meet our experts:
What is clear whey protein?
Simply put, it’s a refined form of whey protein which contains a higher concentration of protein but lower levels of fat, carbohydrates, and lactose and is typically made by hydrolysing (essentially breaking down) the whey protein isolate.
“It’s a type of whey protein isolate that mixes into water like squash, juice, and some have it in their coffee,” says Rowe-Ham. “You get a good amount of protein — usually more than 20g — without the bloating or heaviness some of us feel with traditional protein powders mixed as creamy shakes,” she continues.
How we test the best clear whey protein:
Since 2021, the GLAMOUR team — writers, editors and committed freelancers — has made it a priority to personally test a host of supplements, multivitamins and protein powders which claim to supercharge your nutrition and overall well-being.
Every clear whey protein in this round-up was mixed with water and made into a shake before being reviewed against the following criteria:
- Ease of use — Were the capsules easy to swallow? Did the powder mix well with water?
- Efficacy — How long into the four weeks did they notice a difference, if any?
- Taste — On a scale of one to five, how pleasurable was the taste?
- Value for money — Would they be happy to commit to the weekly, monthly or bi-monthly spend?
We also considered the quality of ingredients and additional benefits before rounding up our favourites below.
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