Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners

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Protein powders help ensure the body gets enough protein to maintain and strengthen muscle mass, promote muscle growth, and build bones. However, some supplements contain artificial sweeteners, which could pose a risk to your health and ruin the quality of your supplement. 

If you’ve been looking for a protein powder without artificial sweeteners, we’re listing 5 top supplements, plus a comprehensive guide to help you select the best protein powder without artificial sweeteners.

Top 5 Protein Powders without Artificial Sweeteners

1 – Live Conscious Organic Protein Powder
2 – Ritual Essential Protein Powder
3 – Essential Elements Very Vanilla Powder
4 – Power Life High Impact Plant Protein
5 – Naked Nutrition Chocolate Whey Protein Powder


Live Conscious Organic Protein Powder is our top choice for those seeking a protein supplement without artificial sweeteners.

– It features organic stevia leaf, a natural and zero-calorie sweetener that doesn’t contribute to blood sugar spikes.
– The plant-based protein blend provides a complete amino acid profile essential for muscle growth and recovery.
– With its use of stevia and natural vanilla flavor, it presents a balanced choice for those interested in a high-quality, naturally sweetened protein supplement.

Why Trust Us?

At Drug Genius, we are committed to providing you with the most accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date information about protein powders. We have invested over 85 hours in creating our extensive protein powder database.

This database, which covers over 300 protein powders from leading brands worldwide, is the result of rigorous research, meticulous data collection, and thorough data cleaning.
We’ve delved deep into nutritional profiles, examined product labels, visited official websites, and even reached out to brands directly to ensure the accuracy of our information.

The Problem with Artificial Sweeteners in Protein Powders

In lieu of traditional table sugar, some people use artificial sweeteners, which taste just as sweet as sugar but have fewer or no calories. They are found in many foods and drinks labeled sugar-free or diet, including soft drinks, candy, baked goods, and snacks, or are sold on their own in packets or other containers.

Here are some of the more commonly-used artificial sweeteners

  • Acesulfame potassium
  • Aspartame
  • Neotame 
  • Saccharin 
  • Sucralose 

However, there are reports of certain artificial sweeteners causing side effects, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea. However, one study showed that excessive or prolonged use of artificial sweeteners could lead to weight gain and was linked to a 9% higher risk of cardiovascular problems (i.e., heart attacks) and stroke.

Experts also found that artificial sweeteners may be likelier to make you get hungry, eat more throughout the day, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes (though certain artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium, aspartame, and saccharin are safe for those who already have type 2 diabetes).

Best Protein Powders for Diabetics

Some people may also find artificial sweeteners bitter or generally displeasing to their taste. The synthetic sweetness from artificial sweeteners can overstimulate the body’s taste buds, making the sweetness found in natural sources like fruits seem less potent. The sweetener molecules also tend to hit the taste receptors for bitterness, leaving an aftertaste.

Natural Sweetener Options for Protein Powders

Opting for plant-based or natural sweeteners can offer more health benefits than refined sugar and other artificial sweeteners. Benefits may include lower blood pressure and blood sugar.

  • Stevia – Extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, and benefit blood sugar levels and blood pressure. 
  • Monk fruit extract – Monk fruit contains zero calories and is about 250x sweeter than sugar, and works well with ketogenic, diabetic, candida, paleo, and vegan lifestyles.
  • Honey – Being higher in fructose than glucose, honey has a lower GI value than sugar, meaning it doesn’t raise blood sugar levels as quickly and is considerably sweeter.
  • Coconut sugar – Coconut sugar contains a small amount of inulin, a type of soluble fiber that is less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.

So, what are the best protein powders without sucralose, aspartame, or other artificial sweeteners?

Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners – The List

1. Live Conscious Organic Protein

Enjoy pure, plant-based protein with Live Conscious’s Organic Protein, made with a masterful formula of vegan proteins and superfoods to help you maximize your workouts and gain intense muscle gains and strength.

↓ Natural Sweetener Used ↓

Organic Stevia Leaf

Ingredients

The blend includes yellow pea and pumpkin seed – both rich sources of plant proteins; sacha inchi seed, which is rich in amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids; and brown rice, a rich source of methionine. 

Taste

Organic Protein is available in two flavors – vanilla and cacao, which most users find quite appetizing. It uses stevia leaf as its sweetener of choice. 

Nutritional Profile

Amount Per Serving
Protein Blend
Organic Yellow Pea Organic Brown Rice Organic Sacha Inchi Seed(Plukenetia volubilis) Organic Pumpkin Seed
19.4 g
Organic Tahl Gum (Acacia seyal)1 g

Price

A monthly subscription to Live Conscious Organic Protein (1 bag) costs $36, while the hero plan, which bi-monthly 2-bag subscription that costs $33, lets you save $18

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Uses safe and quality ingredients
  • Vegan
  • Zero sugar
  • Allergen-free (Dairy, gluten, soy, nut, and shellfish)
  • Non-GMO
  • No preservatives or fillers
  • Third-party tested
  • cGMP-compliant
  • Easy cancellation
  • Free shipping

Cons

  • Chalky texture may not be appetizing for some consumers.

Consumer Reviews

“I’ve been purchasing this protein powder for use in making smoothies, and I love it. Also, it is the perfect sweetness.” Tessa M.

2. Ritual Essential Protein Powder

Ritual’s Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ is a plant-based protein supplement that helps individuals meet their protein needs to promote and maintain muscle gains, get strong bones, and maximize their brain function.

↓ Natural Sweetener Used ↓

Organic Monk Fruit Extract, Fermented Sugarcane (Reb-M)

Ingredients

The blend contains some stellar nutrients and ingredients – pea protein, which serves as Ritual protein powder’s base, and helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis and build muscle mass; choline, which helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy and promotes muscle control; and L-metathione, which strengthens the bone and promotes brain health. It aids in breaking down fats by preventing their buildup in the arteries. 

Taste

Vanilla gives Ritual protein its flavor. The vanilla bean used is sourced in sustainable and ethical conditions from Madagascar. For the sweetener, Ritual uses Reb-M, a popular sugar substitute with zero calories, and is considered safe, even for people who are pregnant or who have diabetes.

Pros

  • Uses traceable, scientifically-backed nutrients 
  • Non-GMO
  • Third-party tested
  • 100% vegan
  • 100% gluten and soy-free
  • No artificial colorants and flavorings
  • Zero sugar
  • Monthly delivery guaranteed
  • Free shipping for subscribers
  • Free, easy cancellation
  • Money-back guaranteed

Cons

  • The powder is quite difficult to stir, shake, or mix manually (You’ll have to use a blender or mixer for it to blend well)
  • There’s currently only one flavor option available.

Nutritional Profile

Amount Per Serving
Protein20g
Choline (as Choline bitartrate1)150mg
Calcium120mg
Iron3mg
L-Methionine493mg

Price

A pack of Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake 18+ Powder costs $40

Consumer Reviews

Here’s what a verified customer left on the Ritual website:

“My daughter suggested it to me because of the no-carb component. It is very delicious and always comes on time!” Katy

3. Essential Elements Very Vanilla Powder

Essential Elements Protein is the perfect way to aid workout performance, support healthy muscle recovery, and ensure your body always has enough protein to achieve your wellness goals.

↓ Natural Sweetener Used ↓

Organic Stevia Leaf

Ingredients

The formula contains sacha inchi seed, yellow pea, pumpkin seed, and brown rice, which are excellent plant-based sources of proteins, amino acids, naturally occurring omega-3s, and important minerals.

Taste

Essential Elements Powder is available in two flavors – vanilla and chocolate. 

Nutritional Profile

Amount Per Serving
Protein Blend
Organic Yellow Pea Organic Brown Rice Organic Sacha Inchi Seed (Plukenetia volubilis) Organic Pumpkin Seed
19 g
Organic Tahl Gum (Acacia seyal)2.25 g

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Non-GMO
  • Third-party tested
  • 100% vegan
  • Allergen-free (Dairy, gluten, soy, nut, and shellfish)
  • No artificial colorants and flavorings
  • Zero sugar
  • Free shipping for subscribers
  • Free, easy cancellation
  • 365-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Some customers may find them too sweet.  

Price

The one-time purchase pack costs $31, but the bi-monthly, 2-bag hero subscription plan costs $26, which lets you save $16. 

Consumer Reviews

As of date there aren’t any detailed reviews for Essential Elements Vanilla Powder.

4. Power Life High Impact Plant Protein

Power Life Protein Powder

Designed by Tony Harton, High Impact Plant Protein has a unique blend of powerful plant proteins, vitamins, and digestive enzymes to strengthen and build muscles, boost physical strength, and support overall wellness and immune support.

↓ Natural Sweetener Used ↓

Monk Fruit Extract

Ingredients

The blend contains a vegan blend of pumpkin, mung bean, flaxseed, and yellow pea; HMB and vitamin D3, which maintains lean muscle mass; pro hydrolase, which promotes healthy nutrient absorption and smooth digestion; chlorella support whole-body wellness, and chromium transports amino acids to the muscles.

Taste

High Impact Plant Protein is available in two flavors – vanilla and chocolate. 

Nutritional Profile

Amount Per Serving
Protein15 g
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) (Plant Source)20 mcg
Calcium440 mg
Iron4 mg
Potassium360 mg

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Uses safe and quality ingredients
  • Vegan
  • Non-GMO
  • No preservatives or fillers
  • No hormones and antibiotics
  • Third-party tested
  • cGMP certified
  • Offers 90-day moneyback guarantee
  • Free shipping

Cons

  • Not the most affordable option

Price

A High Impact Plant Protein pack costs $69.95, but the brand offers discounts if you buy more.

Consumer Reviews

A customer left this review on the My Power Life website:

“Hi since I have been using Power Life, I feel more energetic and healthy. I use it in smoothies and water also salads. I am even losing weight. I walk for exercise with my dog. I also exercise off and on. I have even noticed that my stomach is starting to show definition again. This powder drink taste great. It smells like dessert. I will continue to use it to gain all these benefits.” She’Rie White

5. Naked Nutrition Chocolate Whey Protein Powder

Chocolate Naked Whey boasts its pure whey sourced from grass-fed, free-roaming, hormone-free cows, with each serving containing up to 25 grams of protein and 5.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).

↓ Natural Sweetener Used ↓

Organic Coconut Sugar

Ingredients

Naked Nutrition’s Whey Protein Powder only has bovine-sourced whey as its principal ingredient, which is better for the animals and the environment and comes with several health benefits for you.

Taste

This protein powder comes in vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, which has a mild flavor, according to reviews. You can also choose the unflavored option to easily include it in various recipes.  

Nutritional Profile

Amount Per Serving
Protein25 g
Calcium103 mg
Iron0.38 mg
Potassium170 mg

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Low sodium content
  • Uses whey from grass-fed, hormone-free cows
  • Soy-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • No preservatives or fillers
  • Third-party tested
  • cGMP certified

Cons 

  • High price point

Price

Consumer Reviews

A customer left this review on the official Naked Nutrition website:
“The power blends well, it hasn’t led to gas or bloating. The taste is something you won’t get tired of and adding different fruits or whatever usually turns out great.” – Zachry

How to Choose the Best Protein Powder for You

When choosing a protein powder, it’s important to assess your individual needs, dietary restrictions and preferences, fitness goals, and even taste preferences to help make the supplementation more effective and consistent. 

Comparing Protein Sources

One thing is to determine which type of protein meets your target goals: 

  • Whey protein – Whey protein has a better amino acid profile, higher bioavailability, and is greatly efficient in building muscle mass and promoting satiety, making it highly popular with  
  • Casein protein – Casein is a good option for days when you’re not exercising or working out to help retain muscle mass.
  • Collagen protein – Collagen protein also promotes muscle building, faster recovery from injuries, and promoting bone density. 
  • Plant-based protein – For those with vegan or vegetarian diets.

Regardless of your choice, always make sure to pick a product with a high bioavailability, ingredient quality, purity, and brand reputation.

Checking the ingredient list is always a must! Aside from harmful artificial sweeteners, watch out for additives like gluten, dextrins, maltodextrin, vegetable oils, thickeners, and gums, which could compromise the product’s efficacy.

Protein Calculator: How Much Protein Do You Need Per Day?

Our Personalized Protein Intake Calculator is a user-friendly online tool designed to provide an estimated daily protein requirement based on your body weight. This can be a helpful resource for those looking to optimize their diet for general health or specific fitness goals.

How to Use It:

Using the calculator is easy:

  1. Input your body weight in pounds (lbs) into the designated field.
  2. Click on the “Calculate” button.
  3. The calculator will then provide you with a range of your estimated daily protein requirements in grams (g). This range represents the minimum and maximum amounts of protein you might need depending on your level of physical activity and health status.

Remember, while this calculator provides a convenient way to estimate your protein needs, it should be used as a guide and does not replace professional nutritional advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalized dietary planning.

How To Read Your Results

The minimum and maximum values in the protein intake calculator are based on the range of protein intake recommendations for average adults, which are typically 0.8g to 1.6g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

Minimum Protein Intake

The minimum value represents the lower end of this range, which is approximately 0.8g of protein per kilogram of body weight. This is the general recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein for average adults to meet basic nutritional requirements. This amount is enough to prevent deficiency, but it may not be sufficient for individuals who are very active, those who are recovering from injury or illness, or those who have other specific health needs.

Maximum Protein Intake

The maximum value represents the higher end of the range, which is approximately 1.6g of protein per kilogram of body weight. This amount is often recommended for people who are more physically active, especially those who are involved in regular strength training or endurance activities. Consuming this amount of protein can help support muscle repair and growth, enhance recovery, and optimize physical performance.

In addition, higher protein intakes can be beneficial for individuals trying to lose weight, as protein can promote feelings of fullness and help preserve lean muscle mass when dieting.

It’s important to remember that these are general estimates and individual protein needs can vary based on a variety of factors. For personalized advice, individuals should consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are natural sweeteners safe for consumption?

Yes, they are safe for consumption and can even offer health benefits. Though it’s still best to consume them in moderation. 

Will protein powders without artificial sweeteners have the same benefits as those with them?

Yes, protein powders without artificial sweeteners can provide the same benefits as those with them. The primary purpose of protein powder is to supply your body with an additional source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.

The presence or absence of artificial sweeteners does not affect the protein content or quality of the powder.

Artificial sweeteners are used in protein powders to enhance their taste without adding extra calories. Removing artificial sweeteners from a protein powder may alter its taste, but it does not affect the nutritional benefits provided by the protein itself.

Can I use protein powders without artificial sweeteners in recipes?

Yes, you can add them to beverages and certain recipes, but choosing the flavorless option is better to not overpower your dish’s flavor. 

How can I be sure the protein powder I choose is free from artificial sweeteners?

Read the ingredient list: Carefully read the ingredient list on the product label. Artificial sweeteners commonly used in protein powders include sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), and saccharin. If you see any of these listed, the product contains artificial sweeteners.

Look for “no artificial sweeteners” claims: Some protein powders advertise that they do not contain artificial sweeteners on the packaging. Look for phrases like “no artificial sweeteners,” “naturally sweetened,” or “sweetened with stevia/monk fruit.”

Research the brand: Visit the brand’s website and read about its product philosophy, ingredients, and manufacturing processes. Reputable brands will be transparent about the ingredients they use.

Opt for unsweetened protein powders: Unsweetened protein powders do not contain any added sweeteners, artificial or natural. If you’re concerned about artificial sweeteners, this might be the best option for you. You can always add your preferred natural sweetener when you prepare your protein shake.

Do Clear Protein Powders Use Artificial Sweeteners?

The ingredients used in clear protein powders are similar to regular protein powders. Some brands use artificial sweeteners while others do not. Naked Nutrition is one brand that offers a clear protein powder with no artificial sweeteners.

Conclusion

Sugar substitutes can be a way to help some people lessen their use of sugar, but artificial sweeteners could pose a risk to one’s health and could even decrease the efficiency of nutritional supplements, such as protein powders, and even affect the taste, which in turn, could consistency in daily supplementation – an already taxing habit for some.

Before settling for a product, always make an informed decision based on your preferences and needs by researching a product to see if it meets your fitness and health goals. You can also consult your trusted fitness instructor, dietitian, or healthcare provider to narrow down the best choice. 

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.

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