When it comes to protein powders, most people tend to think of whey. Tis easily digested form of protein is often the first choice of athletes and fitness fanatics. However, as a milk byproduct, whey can cause problems for sufferers of lactose intolerance.
The good news is that there are plenty of options are out there if you want help meeting your fitness goals. In this post I’m going to look at some choices for the best protein powder for lactose intolerant people and how to use them.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose is a form of sugar found in milk products. It follows that intolerance of it is a condition in which your body is unable to digest lactose. In practical terms, you experience a dietary sensitivity to milk and milk products.
Many people are affected by the uncomfortable symptoms of intolerance within a matter of hours after consuming lactose. These include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
There are different levels of lactose intolerance. Each individual is able to withstand lactose to a different degree. One person may be able to drink 3 glasses of milk before noticing any symptoms, where another may not even be able to stomach one mouthful.
The only treatment for an intolerance is to avoid lactose entirely. This means cutting foods which contain the ingredient out of your diet.
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Our #1 Rated
BulkSupplements
Soy Protein Isolate Powder
A vegan-friendly supplement containing 90 percent pure protein—soy protein content is as rich as whey.
Our #1 Rated
BulkSupplements
Soy Protein Isolate Powder
A vegan-friendly supplement containing 90 percent pure protein—soy protein content is as rich as whey.
As I’ve mentioned, whey protein is the most popular form of protein powder. Whey is a very high-quality protein source, it contains all of the essential amino acids and is absorbed quickly after you drink it. However, as whey is comes from milk, it often has a high lactose content, making it unsuitable for anyone with an intolerance. However, there are a number of protein powder options which are suitable for people sensitive to lactose.
Whey Protein Isolate
As mentioned, you find whey protein in milk. However, whey protein isolate is processed to such a high level that it contains minimal amounts of carbohydrates and is lower in lactose. The National Strength and Conditioning Association states that whey protein isolate is safe for people with lactose intolerance.
Soy Protein
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, soy-based protein is not only an excellent protein source but also contains components called isoflavones which promote heart and bone health.
As soy protein (or its isolate) does not contain any milk products it’s safe for anyone who is lactose intolerant.
Pea Protein
Pea protein is sourced from dried yellow split peas (yes, I am talking about the kind you put in soup). As a plant-based protein like soy, there are no milk products involved and it’s naturally without any lactose.
Hemp Protein
As the name suggests, hemp protein comes from the superfood hemp seeds. Hemp is a vegan friendly plant-based protein that naturally contains no lactose. This makes it an excellent option for anyone who is looking for an alternative to milk-based protein.
Brown Rice Protein
Made from whole grain brown rice, this form of protein offers an excellent amino acid profile. Brown rice protein is a favorite among vegans and is of course, lactose free naturally.
Wheat Protein
Gluten is found in wheat can be isolated in order to create a lactose-free protein powder. The only downfall of this popular plant-based protein option is that it’s not suitable for anyone with a gluten or wheat sensitivity.
Beef Protein
Beef protein is derived from the lean beef of grass-fed cows rather than milk. As long as you don’t follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, it’s completely fine for anyone looking for an option without lactose.
Egg Protein
Most people are aware that eggs are a great source of protein. Therefore, it’s no surprise that an egg protein powder is available. It has been touted as the optimum protein source due to its incredible bioavailability.
Best Protein Powder for Lactose Intolerance
I have looked at a number of protein powders suitable for anyone who is in search of a lactose-free supplement. I’m going to share my top five picks for the best protein powder for lactose intolerant people.
I’ve included as much information as possible to help you make an informed decision as well as pros and cons for each product.
This is a soy isolate powder, in fact, soy is the only ingredient! No allergens, no additives, flavors or colors. Each serving offers 27 grams of protein plus naturally occurring essential and nonessential amino acids. This product is a great price, made in the USA and lab tested to guarantee purity.
This is an unflavored hemp protein powder grown in Canada. It’s certified organic and non GMO. It is reasonably priced but one serving only offers 15 grams of protein, which may not be enough for some people.
It’s free from allergens and includes amino acids. Another unique selling point is that it’s an excellent source of fiber. Unlike other protein powders, this can be used in baking rather than just shakes.
Optimum Nutrition is a popular supplement manufacturer among hard core gym experts and bodybuilders. It’s no wonder they’ve brought out an option which is suitable for their lactose intolerant fans.
All Optimum Nutrition products are made in the USA and registered under the NSF International, The Public Health and Safety Company, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) program.
This protein offers 24 grams of protein per serving. The only negative is the enormous price tag. This product may be the ‘gold standard’ of protein, but it has a gold karat price to match.
This protein powder is made from yellow split peas and comes in at an unbelievably low price.
It is non GMO, gluten free and hypoallergenic. The downside is it offers a very low dose of protein and has a salty taste which many people find unappealing.
A great-tasting protein that dissolves easily without a powdery texture. It’s an ideal supplement to not only boost muscle, but also assist with weight loss. This is due to the low carbohydrate content and a formulation targeted at reducing hunger pangs.
There are no sweeteners such as aspartame in this protein supplement—instead, all the sweetness comes from natural extracts of monk fruit and stevia.
Unlike many other supplements, the fat is not removed by denaturing which can make protein harder to absorb and reduce the power of the amino acids. Instead, it is naturally low in fat and is lactose, soy, and corn-free.
I have to be honest, after a lot of research into protein powders for different uses and dietary needs, I have become a big fan of the Bulksupplements brand. Mainly because they are very ‘do what they say on the tin.’
Everything about their products is simple from the pure ingredients to the no nonsense packaging. I think their soy protein would be an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best protein powder for lactose intolerant folks.
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