Protein Powders I Love: A Modern Shake-tacular Adventure

Let’s talk protein powders. There are a million of them on the market. A million. And that’s just an estimate from my own mental math after wandering the aisles of Whole Foods and scrolling through endless Amazon reviews. How do you choose which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash? How do you find one that checks all the boxes: budget-friendly, tastes good, and doesn’t turn into a clumpy mess in your shaker bottle? Let’s be real—nobody has time to carry around a mini blender in their backpack just to mix up a shake between meetings (and if you do, I admire your dedication).

I can already hear some of you yelling from the rooftops: "Just eat whole foods! Get your protein from natural sources!" And honestly, you’re not wrong. Whole foods are the gold standard. But let’s be real: we live in a fast-paced, modern world where not everyone has time to prepare a chicken breast or steak between Teams calls, or if you are like me, you don’t like eating meat at all but are less bothered by meat products like protein powders. Sometimes, we just need something quick, clean, and convenient to get that protein boost. Plus, for those of us who occasionally dip into plant-based nutrition, protein powder becomes the MVP of our diet.

So yes, I have a rotating roster of protein powders that I lean on, depending on what I’m eating and how my body is feeling. Below is my tried-and-true lineup of organic protein powders that don’t use refined sweeteners (most use monk fruit). These are the powders that have earned a permanent spot in my pantry.

1. Paleo Valley 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein with Colostrum

It’s not just your regular whey protein—it’s packed with colostrum. Colostrum is that magical first milk mammals produce for their newborns, so you know it’s full of immune-boosting goodies (this kinda grossed me out to think about, but I digress). Plus, it’s 100% grass-fed, which means it's a step above your typical whey in terms of quality. This is my go-to when I want something that mixes well in a shaker bottle on the go and for traveling.

2. Paleo Valley 100% Grass-Fed Bone Broth Protein

When I want a little boost in flavor, this is my jam. Bone broth protein might sound a little medieval, but it’s loaded with collagen and great for your skin, joints, and gut. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for mixing in with some of these other powders for an extra kick (and because this is not a complete protein). In fact, I think it’s a little too rich to consume all on it’s own. Sometimes I mix half a scoop of it in my Fabula coffee with Everbella collagen, Ceylon cinnamon, and Nut Pods.

3. Sprout Living Pumpkin Seed Protein

Plant-based, clean, and packed with nutrients. It has a mild, earthy flavor that doesn’t overpower your smoothie but adds a little extra something. I love that it is just one single ingredient!  I use this when I want to add some extra creaminess to my other protein powders or if I don’t plan to eat pumpkin seeds with my meals that day.

4. Chocho Superfood Protein by MIKUNA

If you’ve never heard of Chocho, welcome to your new obsession. It’s a powerhouse legume from the Andes, and MIKUNA does an amazing job transforming it into a protein powder that’s rich in nutrients and light on the environment. The flavor is subtle, which is perfect for those who like to keep things simple and clean. If you buy the unflavored version, it is just one single ingredient, which I think is fantastic! Note: I find that this powder is better blended than in a shaker bottle so best used at home vs. while traveling or on the go.

5. Truvani

Truvani is a brand I trust when I’m looking for organic, plant-based protein that tastes good and has limited ingredients in it.  This powder comes in 9 different flavors and is pea and pumpkin seed based.

Find Your Protein Soulmate (and Shop Smart!)

At the end of the day, finding the right protein powder is kind of like dating. You’ll go through a few duds before you find "The One" (or in my case, "The Five"). There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and your favorite might change based on your activities, how you’re feeling, and what your goals are. The good news is that there’s a powder for everyone, whether you’re all about the whey and collagen or going full plant based.

Buy Direct

Here is something important; When you find your perfect match, consider supporting the companies directly. Most of the brands I mentioned offer subscribe-and-save options on their websites, which means you can get a discount without going through Amazon. It typically doesn’t cost you anything extra, and it helps these businesses keep a bigger portion of the profits.  In a world where convenience is king, taking that small step to shop directly can really make a difference for the companies you love. So, be kind when you can, whether it’s to your body with good nutrition or to the brands you believe in.

Next time you’re overwhelmed by the choices on the shelf, don’t panic. Just think of me, sipping my shake, and know that your protein soulmate is out there. And maybe it’s one of these!

Happy shaking, friends.