Protein is the foundation for muscle and there are a lot of misconceptions about it.  What’s the best type, how much do you need a day/a meal, etc.  Protein helps us build muscle by helping rebuild muscle tissue after workouts and speeding recovery time.  Moreover, it helps you preserve the muscle you have from being lost due to a variety of factors.  Protein also takes more energy for your body to digest helping to speed your metabolism and keep you full longer.

We have tried everything from 1g of protein per pound of body weight, 1g of protein per ideal body weight pound, although this can very from males to females and your particular goals.  Bottom line protein from natural food sources will always be best, so for non-vegans/vegetarians meats will be your primary source, and for vegans/vegetarians nuts, seeds, and legumes will be your primary source.  The problem is it can be very difficult to get the amount of protein you need daily by just diet alone.  This is where supplementation comes in,  protein powders can give you a boost to help you reach your protein goals and there are a large variety of different types.  Whey protein is the fastest and most absorbable, the best type of whey protein is isolate.  Vegan protein comes in blends from pea, rice, chia, and other natural ingredients.  Casein protein is a slower digesting protein.  Collagen protein can help your skin, hair, nails, and joints.  Here are the proteins we recommend for organic whey, organic vegan, and natural casein.

Our top pick for the best organic whey protein powder is Natural Force Organic Whey Isolate.

Natural Force has been around since 2009 and focuses on natural ingredients not artificial ingredients.  They have a large line of certified organic products and are 3rd party tested.  Their Organic Whey Isolate is a great blend of quality protein and a good price point.  Their protein comes from grass fed cows milk and is all whey isolate not like many other proteins with whey concentrate which is not nearly as pure and absorbed by our bodies.  Their whey isolate protein is also USDA certified organic and comes in a variety of flavors.  We prefer the chocolate as it can mix with other supplements easier but its up to you.  Moreover, they have added 4.5 g of BCAAs per serving.  With 20g of protein per scoop, this should fit most everyone’s needs for a pre or post workout shake.  There are only 4 ingredients and they are all natural, unlike many other brands.  If quality protein and ingredients are you main goal then this is the protein for you.

Our top pick for the best organic plant-based protein is Orgain Organic Protein.

Orgain is one of the top health brands with a wide range of organic products.  If you are vegan or are trying to reduce dairy, from the more popular whey protein, then this is your choice.  This organic plant based protein is a vegan blend of pea, brown rice, hemp, and chia seed protein.  It is easily digestible and creamier than most vegan proteins, and the taste is better than many other protein powders on the market.  You get 21 grams of protein per serving and the price per serving is very competitive for organic vegan proteins.  In addition, you will get 0 grams of sugar, 6 grams of prebiotic + fiber, and gluten free.  This product is also certified organic by the USDA.  The taste and price per serving for us make it our top pick and we think you will enjoy it as well.

Our top pick for the best natural casein protein is Naked Casein.

Casein protein is often overlooked by a powerful tool for getting needed protein and taking advantage of muscle building throughout the night most effectively.  Casein protein, as opposed to whey protein, is slowly digested by the body.  Casein is best when taken mixed with whey protein for a multi layered time absorption or our preference before bed.  Taking casein protein before bed will give your muscles a constant stream of protein to help you nourish your muscles as you’re sleeping.

Naked is a brand dedicated to having all natural and simple ingredients.  Their casein offers 26 grams of protein per serving.  They have no sugar, and only one ingredient, casein protein.  They also include 5.9 grams of BCAAs and no grams of sugar.  Naked also states that their protein is hormone free and all made in the USA.  While not organic (because it comes from animals) we think that Naked Casein is the best casein protein on the market that is natural and will meet all your needs for a quality and cost effective casein protein.

Our top pick for best collagen protein powder is Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Protein.

Collagen protein is another important protein to have in our diets. It has been shown to improve skin, hair, nail, and joints. It also promotes heart health and will boost your muscle mass. Flavorless collagen protein can be mixed well with many juices and coffee, we like bullet coffee (add MCT oil and ghee). Vital Proteins is a company that offers many natural products related to health and wellness. Their collagen protein brings 18 grams of protein per serving with no carbs or sugars. Additionally it has 90 mg or Vitamin C, which supports our immune system. The collagen comes from grass fed beef and is certified paleo. We think that the price per serving and amount of protein per serving makes Vital Proteins Collagen Protein our top pick. This protein is a good tool to have in you diet to help ensure you are staying healthy, looking good, and getting your needed protein for the day.