Key takeaways
- Protein powders can increase protein intake, build muscle mass, and enhance recovery.
- The best protein powders for women contain added vitamins or minerals that support women’s health, such as iron, calcium, or vitamin D.
- Our top plant-based pick, Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods Powder, provides 21 grams (g) of protein and 6.4 milligrams (mg) of iron per serving.
Protein powders are commonly used to increase muscle mass or support weight loss.
They’re also helpful for women who want a quick and convenient way to add more protein to their diet.
However, with so many brands, types, and flavors on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which powder to choose.
While the following products are either marketed toward women or contain ingredients that are particularly beneficial for women, the protein powders listed below can be enjoyed by most healthy adults.
Here are our picks of the 6 best protein powders for women in 2025.
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher price range.
Generally, prices range from $0.22 to $2.99 per serving, or $19.99 to $89.99 per container, though this may vary depending on where you shop, as well as the container size.
Pricing guide
- $ = under $1 per serving
- $$ = $1–$2 per serving
- $$$ = over $2 per serving
| Product | Best for | Protein type | Protein per serving | Price per serving | Third-party tested |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orgain Organic Protein + Superfoods Powder | plant-based | plant protein | 21 g (2 scoops) | $$ | yes |
| Naked Whey Unflavored Protein Powder | whey protein | whey protein | 25 g (2 scoops) | $$ | yes |
| Anthony’s Premium Pea Protein | pea protein | pea protein | 8 g (1 tbs) | $ | not disclosed |
| KOS Organic Superfood Protein | taste | plant protein | 20 g (2 scoops) | $$$ | not disclosed |
| Natural Force Organic Grass-Fed Whey Protein | unflavored | whey protein | 20 g (1 scoop) | $$$ | yes |
| Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder | organic | plant protein | 30 g (2 scoops) | $$$ | yes |
Healthline’s dietitians determined the best protein powders using the following criteria:
- Ingredient and nutrient quality: We looked for products that are made from high quality ingredients and contain minimal amounts of added sugars and artificial additives.
- Quality testing: We prioritized products that are third-party tested for quality, accuracy, and purity. We also looked for products that are third-party certified to be safe for competitive athletes.
- Nutritional value: We considered the nutritional value of each product, specifically looking for products that are high in protein and low in added sugar.
- Reviews: The protein powders listed above have either been tried and recommended by Healthline editors or have mostly positive online reviews.
- Price: We included options to suit a variety of budgets.
- Vetting: Every brand and product on our list has been vetted to ensure that it aligns with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being.
There are several factors to consider when shopping for a protein powder.
First, it’s important to decide the type of protein that you prefer.
While whey protein is popular among those looking to gain muscle, those following a vegan or dairy-free diet should choose a plant-based alternative that’s sourced from ingredients like peas, brown rice, or chia seeds.
You should also look for a supplement that offers a variety of flavors and is suitable for however you plan to use it, whether that’s in baked goods, protein shakes, or smoothies.
You may also want to opt for a protein powder that contains nutrients and ingredients that offer specific benefits for women, including probiotics, B vitamins, and iron.
Be sure to also review the nutrition label carefully and opt for a product that meets your nutritional needs, especially if you’re looking to increase or decrease your intake of sugar, fat, fiber, carbs, or specific vitamins or minerals.
Finally, products should ideally be tested by a third-party company, such as NSF International or Informed Choice, to ensure that the powder contains the type and amount of ingredients it claims to on the label.
Curious to learn more?
Check out our guide on the 12 Best Types of Protein Powder to determine which protein source is best for you.
Yes, protein powder can be good for females and males alike. It provides a convenient way to increase protein intake, build muscle mass, and enhance recovery.
However, it’s important to use protein supplements thoughtfully, as excessive intake may carry risks such as kidney strain (hyperfiltration). If you have any concerns or underlying health conditions, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
The best women’s protein powder depends on a person’s goals, dietary preferences, and any specific health needs. Generally, a good women’s protein powder should have:
- high quality protein sources (like whey, pea, rice, or soy)
- minimal added sugars and artificial ingredients
- added vitamins or minerals that support women’s health, such as iron, calcium, or vitamin D
While protein shakes alone won’t specifically target belly fat loss, they can be a useful weight loss tool. Research shows their effectiveness increases when combined with exercise.
The best protein for a woman depends on her individual goals, dietary preferences, and health needs. Generally, a balanced intake of high-quality protein sources that provide all essential amino acids helps support muscle maintenance and overall health.
While protein powders can be a convenient supplement, they should not replace a healthy, balanced diet. In fact, most women can meet their protein requirements by consuming a variety of protein-rich whole foods.
Whether you’re looking to build muscle or need help meeting your protein needs, several great protein powder options are available for women — and they’re suitable for most healthy adults, too.
To help narrow down your search, be sure to consider the type, flavor, and nutritional value of each product. It’s also best to opt for supplements that are third-party tested to ensure safety and quality.
Of course, keep in mind that protein powders are not a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. In fact, most women can meet their protein needs by eating a variety of protein-rich foods.