If your teen is starting to show interest in muscle building and workouts, we have made a list of the best protein powders for teens to help you choose the right one. These protein powders will ensure your child can build their body without facing any side effects. They provide optimal nourishment to meet the daily protein intake and are safe. However, choosing the right product may be challenging with various available options. So, go through the options below to find one that suits your teen’s needs.

10 Best Protein Powders For Teens

1. Best Grain-Free: JYM Supplement Science Protein Powder

If you like your protein supplement to have a good taste and texture, the JYM Supplement protein powder has to be your pick. Consumable with water, milk, and almond milk, this versatile grain-free protein powder is a combination of 50% casein, 40% whey, and 10% egg protein. It promotes natural strength, enhances endurance and recovery, and boosts energy. Pros

Supports lean muscle growth Can be used before and after workouts Enhances muscle protein synthesis Gluten-free

Cons

Does not include a scooper May take a lot of time to mix with the choice of liquid

2. Best For Lean Muscle Mass: Optimum Nutrition 100% Whey Protein

  The protein powder for teens from Optimum Nutrition is a good option for maintaining and increasing lean muscle mass. You can mix the powder easily to get the goodness of branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Pros

Can be used as a pre- or post-workout drink BCAAs support endurance and recovery Rich in glutamine peptides Available in multiple sizes and flavors

Cons

Some may find the taste to be too sweet Contains soy and dairy

3. Best Dairy-Free: PlantFusion Complete Plant Based Protein Powder

  The protein powder helps in muscle mass growth. It is entirely plant-based and offers 21g of protein per serving with a low-calorie count. Check out this video to learn more about this protein powder. Pros

No added sugar Suitable for sensitive stomachs Apt for those prone to milk and animal-based protein allergies Adheres to US FDA guidelines

Cons

May have a stevia aftertaste May not have proper consistency

4. Best Soy-Free: BSN Syntha-6 Protein Powder

  The protein powder by BSN does not contain any soy protein. Loaded with amino acids, it aids in muscle recovery in your teen. Watch this video to know more about this protein powder Pros

Rich in fiber Promotes muscle protein synthesis Available in multiple flavors and sizes Easy to blend

Cons

May not be dairy-free May have artificial flavors

5. Best Chocolate-Flavored: Pure Protein Powder

Amino acids are a crucial component of protein powders, and this chocolate-flavored protein powder helps ensure you’re consuming enough amino acids. It offers two grams of sugar and 25 grams of protein per serving. This 100% whey protein powder supports lean muscle growth. Use the versatile protein supplement as a pre- or post-workout drink, or take it between meals. Pros

Enhances vitality and strength Low-sugar formula Fast-acting Contains no soy protein Gluten-free

Cons

May not dissolve easily May have a lingering aftertaste

6. Best Non-GMO: Nutricost Whey Protein Isolate Powder

  The powder has been manufactured at an FDA-approved facility and has undergone third-party testing. Have a look at this video to understand how this protein powder works Pros

Non-GMO product does not contain any gluten Contains 30g of protein per serving Does not contain added sugars Blendable with other beverages

Cons

May be slightly lumpy Flavor might be a bit intense for some

7. Best Ultra-Microfiltered : GNC PP 100% Whey Protein Powder

  The whey protein powder from GNC helps support your teen’s muscle recovery and growth. It is rich in ultra-microfiltered whey protein and has low carb content. Pros

Rich in nine essential amino acids Supports healthy metabolism Helps maintain adequate nitrogen levels Provides anabolic building blocks Gluten-free

Cons

May be slightly lumpy when mixed Some may not like the taste

8. Best Plant-Based: Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein & Greens

  This protein powder from Garden of Life is formulated with plant-based ingredients including spinach, kale, broccoli, and alfalfa grass. Pros

Gluten, soy, and dairy-free Helps repair and build healthy muscles and contributes to healthy digestion Contains CFU probiotics and non-GMO enzymes for easy digestion Free of sugar Vegan-friendly

Cons

Some may not like the slightly intense flavor May be slightly chalky

9. Best For Muscle Recovery: MusclePharm Combat Powder Advanced Time Release Protein

  The protein powder from MusclePharm can be combined with other supplements. It helps increase physical performance and improves muscle recovery and muscle strength. Pros

Contains a blend of five specific proteins Gluten-free Includes BCAAs to support muscle recovery Good option for athletes

Cons

May require more effort while mixing May be slightly frothy

10. Best Low-Fat: Dymatize ISO 100 Hydrolized Whey Protein Powder

  A protein powder with low-fat content, can provide up to 50% daily protein allowance for the teen with 25 grams of protein per serving. If you are looking to satiate your chocolate cravings and meet your protein requirements simultaneously, then this protein powder can be your safest bet. Pros

Less fat and sugar content Easy to digest Available in 12 flavors Gluten- and lactose-free

Cons

May be sweeter than expected May be slightly foamy

How To Choose The Right Protein Powder For Teens?

Consider the following factors when choosing a protein powder for teens. Jenni Hackworth, Nutritionist, Sports Nutritionist, CPT, RYT200, a Colorado-based fitness expert says, “Always check with your teen’s physician before starting any supplement.  You and your teen should discuss with the doctor what they’re hoping to gain by adding a protein powder to their diet.  Together you can decide which supplement is best for the gains you want to see.”

Why Trust MomJunction?

Vibha Navarathna, the author of this article, has created this list of the best protein powders for teenagers after scouring hundreds of websites and user reviews. Keeping in mind your child’s safety, these products are shortlisted after in-depth research and product comparisons. Vibha has included those products that are formulated with high-quality ingredients and included a buying guide for your convenience. You can find the necessary information about these products here and choose one that would meet your teenager’s needs.

References:

Essential Multi Vitamins For Teens Best Pre-Made Meal Replacement Protein Shakes Best Protein Powders For Pregnancy Best Healthy Protein Bars With Low Sugar