What is the Best Protein Powder For Lactose Intolerant People?

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 lactose intolerance 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 lactose intolerance is to avoid lactose entirely. This means cutting foods which contain the ingredient out of your diet.

Lactose Intolerance and Protein Powder

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 a sensitivity. However, there are a number of protein powder options which are suitable for sufferers of lactose intolerance.

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 protein is not only an excellent source of protein but also contains components called isoflavones which promote heart and bone health.

As soy protein (or soy protein 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 lactose free.

Hemp Protein

As the name suggests, hemp protein comes from the superfood hemp seeds. Hemp protein 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 a lactose free option.

Egg Protein

Most people are aware that eggs are a great source of protein. Therefore, it’s no surprised that an egg protein powder is available. Egg protein has been touted as the optimum source of protein 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 protein 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.

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.