Have digestive issues? You’re not alone. It’s estimated that 10 to 15 percent of the adult American population suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, while nearly 18 percent of Americans experience bloating at least once a week. (1)(2) This can make it challenging when trying to find the best protein powders to meet higher protein needs since many supplements contain fillers, artificial ingredients, and sugar alcohols that can cause stomach upset.

In this review, we’ve identified top picks that help minimize digestive side effects by evaluating many factors including the protein source, amount of protein, macronutrient profile, taste, solubility, and price to help you be able to make an informed choice. In addition to following a low FODMAP diet to minimize digestive issues, choosing one of the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs can keep your stomach woes at bay. 

The 10 Best Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs of 2024

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or nutritionist before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. 

How We Tested and Chose the Best Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best protein powders for sensitive stomachs, we’ve tested nearly 100 different supplements from some of the industry’s most trusted brands using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

We also worked with a third-party accredited lab of our own to rate and score a handful of picks, analyzing each product’s purity and label accuracy. Ratings for areas including the presence of metals, pesticides, phthalates, bisphenols, and overall label accuracy were based on how well each protein sample compared to others in the sample pool.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Supplement Testing Methodology page.

• Side Effects: For sensitive stomachs, minimizing side effects like bloating, gassiness, constipation, and diarrhea while meeting protein needs is important. Our product testers rigorously tested all the products on our list to make sure they have minimal digestive side effects.
• Source of Protein: The source of protein is important to consider for optimal digestibility, especially for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities. We’ve gathered picks with sources like whey protein isolate and casein that are more easily digested for those who are prone to digestive issues.
• Amount of Protein: We’ve ensured the products in our review contain sufficient protein for meeting dietary needs, supporting muscle growth, and achieving fitness goals. The picks on our list contain at least 20 grams of protein, so that they can satisfy the USDA recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. (3)
• Macronutrient Profile: Depending on your health goals, you may need higher or lower carbs or fat content. We’ve included a range of products with various macronutrient profiles to help cater to your needs.
• Taste: While taste can be subjective, we’ve rounded up the best-tasting protein powders for sensitive stomachs so that you don’t have to settle for something that doesn’t satisfy your palate.
• Solubility: We’ve evaluated each protein powder to make sure it mixes well in water, dairy alternatives, and milk. No one likes clumpy textures, so the picks on our list rank highly on solubility, making them easy to enjoy.
• Price: The picks on our list range from $0.88 to $5.00. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, we cater to health goals like weight gain or weight loss with protein powders that fit the bill.

Best Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate

Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate

With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros.

For those with sensitive stomachs, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is one of the best whey protein powders available. Compared to standard whey, isolate is lower in fat, carbs, and lactose content because of how it is processed and filtered. This means that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is more readily digestible for sensitive stomachs, including those with lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). (4)

Our testers put their stomachs to the test to evaluate this pick for any undesirable side effects. This pick received a sparkling rating of 5 out of 5 stars for minimal digestive issues. Our tester, who is a Certified Personal Trainer, states, “I experienced no side effects like bloating or tummy rumbles! I feel full, but my stomach isn’t upset like it is when I drink other protein powders.” 

In addition to its suitability for sensitive stomachs, the formulation is solid. Whey protein isolate retains immune-boosting ingredients while yielding higher protein content. Our expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., who is a Registered Dietitian, states, “I love that this protein powder has 28 grams of high-quality protein without the unnecessary fluff like artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and preservatives.” While it lost some marks for being a little lower in carbs and fat and higher in sodium, this protein supplement received a 4.5 out of 5 for its superb formulation quality.

We know that products that are more digestion-friendly aren’t always as tasty or soluble. However, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate comes in 16 different decadent flavors and easily mixes in a blender bottle. Pro tip: We think this powder is delicious when mixed in a blender with ice and some oat milk to enjoy as a high protein milkshake.

Lastly, in our independent testing, we rated Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate at an overall B grade, given the fact that this powder ranked in the top 25 percent of all tested supplements for heavy metals. It’s one of the cleaner options out there while also being nutritious and delicious for sensitive stomachs.

Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.

Best Low-Carb Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Jacked Factory Authentic ISO

Dig into this easily digesting grass-fed whey isolate that provides 25 grams of protein with each lean 110 calorie scoop. It comes in three tasty flavors at a cost-effective price making it a solid choice for nearly anyone.

Following a low-carb diet can help you maintain your blood sugar levels and even support weight loss. (5) But when you’re watching your carb intake, it’s tough to find the right protein powder that isn’t too high in carbs or sugar. Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is a great low-carb protein powder for sensitive stomachs because many flavors have just 1 gram of carbs, although certain flavors can have as much as 4 grams. That’s a very low amount of carbs given that a serving of carbs is considered 15 grams according to the American Diabetes Association. (6)

Overall, the formulation received a strong score of 4.25 out of 5 stars for its balanced protein-to-calorie ratio and its high-quality protein source: whey protein isolate. Whey isolate is considered a higher-quality protein for sensitive stomachs because it has minimal lactose content while providing high protein content. (4) 

Furthermore, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., states, “I like this protein powder quite a bit because it has a short and simple ingredient list and a hefty dose of protein in every scoop.” Where this protein supplement lost marks was its inclusion of artificial sweeteners, high sodium content (up to 410 milligrams of sodium per serving depending on the flavor), and lack of third-party testing to independently verify the product’s purity, safety, and efficacy.

As far as practical considerations go, this protein powder has a thicker texture but earned a score of 5 out of 5 for mixability. “This powder is on the thicker side, but mixes pretty well,” our tester says. For best solubility, though, we recommend mixing it in milk or a dairy alternative like oat milk for 10 seconds, rather than mixing it with water. Overall, if you’re on a low-carb diet, we think Jacked Factory Authentic ISO is one of the best low-carb protein powders for sensitive stomachs to try.

Read our full Jacked Factory Authentic ISO Review.

Best Vegan Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: KOS Organic Plant Protein

KOS Organic Plant Protein

KOS Organic Plant Protein

This protein powder packs 20 grams of plant-based protein plus various superfoods, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains enzymes to aid digestion and promote gut health.

Plant-based protein sources like pea protein don’t contain all essential amino acids to make up a complete protein, compared to animal-based protein sources like whey. However, consuming enough complete proteins is important for overall health, gaining muscle, and athletic performance. Despite being made with 100 percent plant-based, vegan ingredients, KOS Organic Plant Protein uses a protein blend of pea, flax seed, pumpkin seed, quinoa, and chia seed to provide the same nutrients that a complete protein would. It’s one of the best vegan protein powders for sensitive stomachs we’ve found.

KOS Organic Plant Protein has a clean formulation, which we scored 4.75 out of 5. This protein shake is a great choice for sensitive stomachs, since it’s dairy-free, lactose-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and doesn’t contain sugar alcohols, which may cause digestive upset in some individuals since they aren’t fully absorbed in our digestive system. (7) 

Moreover, this plant-based protein powder also contains a digestive enzyme blend, which may support healthy digestion – although the blend is proprietary. (8) Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., agrees and states, “KOS has digestive support in mind with digestive enzymes and exclusion of your typical suspects that trigger GI upset in some people.” It’s also USDA Organic and certified non-GMO, meaning it’s free from pesticides and genetically modified ingredients.

Plant-based protein powders aren’t known for having a great texture, and unfortunately, KOS Organic Plant Protein is no exception. We still scored this product’s solubility a 4 out of 5 stars, though. Our product tester, who is a Certified Personal Trainer, states, “I thought the texture was pretty good for a plant-based protein powder, but there was some residue at the bottom of the shaker. I attribute this to the larger serving size, though.” We think KOS Organic Plant Protein is worth trying if you’re vegan, often get an upset stomach, and have higher protein needs.

Read our full KOS Organic Plant Protein Review.

Best Protein Powder for Athletes with Sensitive Stomachs: Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein

Onnit’s Grass-Fed Whey Isolate

Onnit’s Grass-Fed Whey Isolate

A grass-fed whey isolate includes added ingredients for digestion like seven digestive enzymes and a probiotic (lactobacillus acidophilus). It’s also gluten-free, sugar-free, and soy-free.

In the sports nutrition world, Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein reigns supreme as one of the best whey isolates for sensitive stomachs. Protein supplementation is important for athletes because studies show that it can help athletes improve their strength and build muscle. (9) As an athlete, you may have higher protein needs of up to 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day – and Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein can supply 20 grams per serving to help meet your protein intake. (10)

Aside from the high protein content, this pick boasts a balanced macronutrient profile consisting of 2 grams of highly digestible fat from medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and only 3 grams of carbohydrates. We scored this product’s formula 4.5 out of 5 stars. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., states, “I like the macronutrient ratio for this product for athletes since it’s high in protein and with just a little bit of carbs and fat. And I like that there’s an enzyme blend to support digestion.” It also contains probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus, which can help promote gut health and is naturally found in foods like yogurt. (11) And lastly, since the source of protein is whey protein isolate, it’s more readily digestible for sensitive stomachs due to the way that it’s filtered. (4)

Where the formulation lost points, though, was in its inclusion of low-grade fillers like silicon dioxide, xanthan gum, and maltodextrin. Fillers are undesirable because they don’t contribute any nutritional value like vitamins and minerals do.

If you’re an active athlete, you might be taking Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein on the go as a pre-workout or post-workout shake with water in a blender bottle and need it to blend well. Our tester notes, “I like the flavor, but the texture is a little thin. This means there are no clumps when you need to quickly mix and drink a shake, though!” While some may not enjoy the thin texture, we like that this shake is a convenient, non-clumpy option for busy athletes. Moreover, note that there are only two flavor choices: chocolate and vanilla. So, if you’re a flavor enthusiast, this protein shake may not be the best choice.

Read our full Onnit Grass-Fed Whey Protein Review.

Best Natural Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Legion Whey+

Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder

Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder

An all natural, non-GMO, fat-free whey that’s cheaper than many competitors, Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder is made from 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from sustainable dairy farms in Ireland. It’s also higher in calcium compared to other powders on the market.

Taking a protein supplement can sometimes feel unnatural – especially compared to whole food sources of protein like lean meats. Fortunately, Legion Whey+ is an all-natural protein powder for those who prefer more natural ingredients. It contains natural sweeteners (like stevia) and natural flavors, with no artificial flavors or sweeteners that some avoid when living a natural lifestyle. 

Legion Whey+ scored 4.75 out of 5 for its formula. Out of the different types of protein available, whey protein isolate is one of the highest quality sources for sensitive stomachs since it’s more easily digested with the whey protein concentrate being “isolated”. (4) Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., notes, “This protein powder contains 20 grams of protein and is clinically dosed to support muscle building and workout recovery.” It also contains no added sugars. The USDA recommends limiting your added sugar intake to less than 10 percent of your daily calorie intake for blood sugar and weight management. (3)

With 15 different delicious flavors to choose from, we know you’ll find a flavor that you enjoy. Our product tester, who is a Certified Personal Trainer, gave this pick a score of 4.5 out of 5 for taste and states, “I tried the Cinnamon Cereal flavor. The flavor is not as decadent as I would’ve liked, but in fairness, I have to try the other flavors too.” One downside on taste to note is that natural sweeteners like stevia can have a bitter aftertaste to some.

Although this pick’s ingredients are completely natural, in our independent testing, we rated Legion Whey+ at an overall C grade. This means that this powder ranked in the top 50 percent of all tested supplements for heavy metal contaminants, so there are likely better options out there that contain fewer metals.

Read our full Legion Whey+ Review.

Best Whey Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate

Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate

Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate

This product is clean and simple with 27 grams of whey protein isolate per serving and under one gram of carb and fat.

We think Bulk Supplements is hands down one of the best whey protein powders for sensitive stomachs. With only two ingredients – whey protein isolate and sunflower lecithin – this pick does not disappoint. Whey protein isolate is a whey protein concentrate that is high in protein but low in carbs and fat due to its processing. Compared to regular whey, it’s much more digestible in the body. (4)

As a registered dietitian, I love the transparency that Bulk Supplements provides around this product’s amino acid profile as well. It contains all essential amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids, making it a complete protein to fuel your workouts. Not many companies list the amino acids that are included in a protein supplement and their respective quantities. I would rate the formula a 4.75 out of 5, with marks deducted only for the inclusion of sunflower lecithin, which is a filler used for emulsification. Otherwise, 30 grams of protein to 110 calories is an excellent protein-to-calorie ratio.

Since this product is only offered in unflavored, it might not be the best choice for those who like to experiment with different flavors. I would give this product a 3 out of 5 since it doesn’t taste like much of anything. However, as a registered dietitian, I like mixing unflavored protein powders in smoothies with frozen fruit, ice, and oak milk for a nutrient-dense meal that’s well-balanced in macronutrients. You can also sneak in unflavored protein to snacks like Greek yogurt or oatmeal.

While this product isn’t third-party tested, in our independent testing, we rated Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate an A. This means that this powder ranked in the top 10 percent of all tested supplements for purity and label accuracy. With one of the best prices per serving on our list of picks, Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate is a clean whey protein with no BS for those with sensitive stomachs.

Read our full Bulk Supplements Whey Protein Isolate Review.

Best Casein Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Naked Micellar Casein

Naked Micellar Casein

This slow-digesting protein powder contains, at max, three ingredients, making it one of the cleanest shakes you can add to your regimen. Naked Micellar Casein provides between 26 and 27 grams of protein per serving, allowing your muscles to fuel up, grow, and recover properly throughout the day.

Casein is a type of protein found in cow’s milk that is slow digesting and provides a steady supply of amino acids throughout the night. Studies show that whether you’re an athlete or looking to lose weight, taking about 40 grams of casein protein can be beneficial for muscle growth and repair during sleep compared to faster-digesting proteins such as whey protein. (12) With only one ingredient – micellar casein sourced from American farms – Naked Micellar Casein gets our vote for one of the best casein protein powders for sensitive stomachs.

As a registered dietitian, I like that this product has such a clean label. It’s free from additives, sugar alcohols, fillers, and artificial sweeteners and flavors that could typically cause gastrointestinal upset — in other words it’s ideal for sensitive stomachs. The full amino acid profile is also disclosed on the label, which is nice to confirm that all essential amino acids (including branched-chain amino acids that support workout recovery) are included. Moreover, this formula has a nice protein-to-calorie ratio of 110 calories per 20 grams of protein, making it a low-calorie option to drink at night for recovery. For these reasons, I would give this product a 5 out of 5 for its formulation.

Most casein proteins aren’t known for their taste and texture, unfortunately. We gave this product’s solubility and taste a score of 4 out of 5. Our product tester states, “Since it’s unflavored, it tasted pretty bad on its own so I would recommend mixing it with something else like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla to give it some flavor.” You could also consider using it as the base for a smoothie since the solubility isn’t too bad. “It’s harder to shake thoroughly, but pretty standard for a casein powder and dissolves decently well,” our tester adds. If you’re looking for a casein protein to drink at night for recovery, give Naked Micellar Casein a try.

Best Budget Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is a tried and true mainstay of fitness supplement programs.

We get it – supplementing with protein can get expensive. When you’re already spending a lot of money between your gym membership and the best pre-workouts, choosing a protein powder that won’t break the bank can be an important consideration. Fortunately, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein can cost as little as $0.88 per serving when buying the bigger 10-pound bag. While the 2-pound bag is still an economical option, the 10-pound bag offers even more savings if you know what flavor you enjoy.

Despite the cheaper price per serving, Optimum Nutrition didn’t skimp on the quality of the formulation for sensitive stomachs. Overall, we gave this formulation a score of 4 out of 5. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D. states, “I like this product because you get 24 grams of protein with plenty of essential amino acids included.” However, Optimum Nutrition doesn’t disclose how much of each protein source goes into the blend, which was a miss. “It also contains artificial sweeteners and fillers, which can cause GI distress in some people,” Bourgeois adds.

With 21 different flavors to choose from, you’ve got a ton of variety here. We rated the taste a 5 out of 5, and over 200,000 customers on Amazon agree. Our product tester states, “I tried several flavors but get a new favorite every time I try one! Even the flavors I normally wouldn’t pick, Optimum Nutrition does a really good job with. Even my husband and kids liked it, and they’re picky.” Moreover, five different product testers rated the solubility a 5 out of 5 stars. It mixes well with water, milk, and dairy alternatives in a blender bottle.

Additionally, in our independent testing, we gave Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein an A score. This means that this powder ranked in the top 10 percent of all tested supplements for purity and label accuracy out of more than 150 tested protein supplements. This means you’re not compromising on quality just because it’s a budget pick. 

Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Review.

Best Tasting Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate

MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate

MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate

For athletes wanting a complete protein solution for post-workout needs, MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate can be just the ticket. A majority of the calories within this formulation are designed to help promote post-workout recovery, and the ingredients contain no added sugars or fat per dosage.

If taste is an important consideration for you, you’ll want to try MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate. While other brands out there have boring flavors like vanilla and chocolate, this protein shake offers milkshake and ice cream flavors that will transform the best protein shakes into decadent desserts. We rated this product a 5 out of 5 for taste. Our product tester tried the Cookies and Cream flavor and excitedly notes, “This is something I’d envision the Cookie Monster would want to eat if he wanted to get jacked. There’s little cookie chunks in it, although it tasted more like cookies than cream!” Others also agree that it’s the best-tasting protein for sensitive stomachs, with thousands of 5-star ratings on Amazon to speak to its great taste. Whether you mix this product in water, oat milk, or even as a sweet treat with some low-fat ice cream, you won’t be disappointed.

From a nutritional perspective, I would rate this product a 3.75 out of 5 as a registered dietitian. The protein source is whey protein isolate, which goes through a purifying process that removes lactose and retains high protein content. (4) It’s also low in carbs and fat with no added sugars, offering a very desirable macronutrient profile for those who are looking to lose weight. Although, if you are looking for the best meal replacements, the carbs and fat may not be high enough to count as a meal.

Where I deducted points was due to the inclusion of artificial ingredients like sucralose and acesulfame potassium. While these artificial sweeteners typically make a protein shake taste better compared to stevia, which can be bitter, I normally try to recommend more natural ingredients that are easier on the stomach. 

Lastly, this product isn’t third-party tested to verify its quality and purity, but the company does disclose all ingredients and nutritional information on the label for review. It’s also pretty cheap for the amount of protein you get. Overall, if you’re a taste and flavor aficionado, you’ll want to get a bag of MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate.

Read our full MyProtein Impact Whey Isolate Review.

Best High-Calorie Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs: Dymatize Super Mass Gainer

Dymatize Super Mass

Dymatize Super Mass keeps calories high, packing plenty of carbs and protein per serving. This is also a budget-friendly option for those who can’t spend a ton on their supplements.

Mass gainers provide a lot of liquid calories so that you can achieve a calorie surplus and put on weight. If you’ve been working out for a while but need some TLC to put on some pounds, mass gainers may help you gain weight and muscle. For sensitive stomachs, we think Dymatize Super Mass Gainer is one of the best mass gainers on the market with a whopping 1,280 calories per serving and 52 grams of protein. This means you don’t have to shove your face with large meals all the time to put on the mass you’ve been looking for.

As a registered dietitian, what I also like about this product is that it contains a little bit of creatine monohydrate, which can help fuel more energy to your muscle cells during high-intensity exercise like the best HIIT workouts. (13) Creatine may also even help you get some extra reps in and support muscle mass and strength gains. (14) It contains a vitamin blend, which is helpful if you are planning to replace your meals with this mass gainer. Overall, I’d give this formula a 4 out of 5 for its purpose of gaining mass.

However, where this product lost marks was in its high saturated fat and cholesterol content, as well as fillers and artificial ingredients. To some extent, fillers are necessary for mass gainers to work so many calories into the formula. But, 3 grams of saturated fat and 130 milligrams of cholesterol might put some strain on your heart health over the long term. According to the American Heart Association, consuming too much saturated fat can increase your levels of “bad” cholesterol and thus, your risk for heart disease. (15)

While our product tester only tried this mass gainer for four days, he gave it a 4.7 out of 5 for lack of side effects and his overall experience. “I like this product because it tastes good and I’ve had no digestive issues while taking it. It’s about on par with the Optimum Nutrition Serious Mass Weight Gainer,” our tester states. As a registered dietician, I recommend you try Dymatize Super Mass Gainer for a couple of weeks, though, to evaluate the effectiveness since achieving calorie surplus and weight gain takes some time.

Benefits of Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs

Supplementing with protein powders offers many advantages, particularly for those with sensitive stomachs. They can help address digestive concerns and support overall health and fitness goals. Some of the benefits of taking protein powders for sensitive stomachs include minimizing digestive symptoms, promoting muscle growth and recovery, and helping individuals meet their daily protein requirements.

• Minimizes digestive symptoms: Choosing protein powders that are designed for sensitive stomachs may help to reduce digestive issues such as gassiness, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Whey protein isolate is virtually lactose-free given the filtration process it goes through, while casein is easy on the stomach since it’s digested more slowly. (4)(12)
• Promotes muscle growth and recovery: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, so selecting a high-quality protein powder can help support faster recovery and muscle gains. (16)
• Helps you meet your protein needs: Whether you are fairly sedentary or have elevated protein needs, finding the right protein powder can help you meet your protein needs. According to the USDA Dietary Guidelines, a sedentary individual should get at least 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, which is at least about 20 grams of protein per meal or snack depending on how many times you eat in a day. (3)

How Much Do Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs Cost?

While prices for protein powders for sensitive stomachs can vary depending on your dietary needs and personal preferences, the picks on our list range from $0.88 to $5.00 per serving. 

The cheapest pick on our list starts from $0.88, but if you are following a specialty diet like a vegan diet or have specific fitness goals like weight gain, you may want to opt for a more premium option that will best fit your needs.

What to Consider Before Buying Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs

Don’t see a pick on our list that meets your needs? We’ve got you covered, whether you’re shopping on Amazon or in the protein aisle of the store. When selecting a protein supplement, it is important to ensure it meets your dietary needs and supports your digestive health. 

Source of Protein

Different types of protein vary in digestibility. There are many types of proteins out there, from brown rice protein and collagen protein to whey protein and pea protein. Typically, dairy-free and lactose-free options like casein, whey protein isolate, and egg white protein powders offer the best digestive benefits and are good choices to consider for sensitive stomachs. 

Whey protein isolate is helpful for digestion since lactose is removed in the process, while casein is a slower-digesting protein that’s helpful to take before bedtime. (4)(12)

Amount of Protein

Check the product to make sure it contains enough protein. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight for a sedentary adult. (3) However, if you have higher activity levels as an athlete or if you’re wondering how to gain weight, you may need as high as 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. (10) As a Registered Dietitian, I typically recommend trying to choose a protein powder that contains at least 20 grams of protein.

Ingredient List

Look for a short and simple ingredient list, with ingredients that you can pronounce and recognize. Rather than artificial sweeteners that can cause digestive problems in some, try to choose a product that contains natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Also, try to avoid products that contain low-grade filler ingredients, since fillers don’t contribute any nutritional value. 

Digestive Enzymes, Probiotics, Fiber

Digestive enzymes, probiotics, and dietary fiber are nice to have rather than mandatory, but they can be helpful for sensitive stomachs. Digestive enzymes may help support digestion in individuals with sensitive stomachs, while probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. (8)(11) 

Moreover, getting enough dietary fiber – especially soluble fiber – can help slow down gastric emptying and support feelings of satiety. (17) While there are no specific daily recommendations for digestive enzymes or probiotics, the USDA recommends 31 to 34 grams of fiber per day for men and 22 to 28 grams of fiber per day for women. (3)

FAQs: Protein Powders for Sensitive Stomachs

References

1. American College of Gastroenterology. Common Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms. Available at https://gi.org/topics/common-gi-symptoms/
2. Ballou, S., Singh, P., Nee, J., Rangan, V., Iturrino, J., Geeganage, G., Löwe, B., Bangdiwala, S. I., Palsson, O. S., Sperber, A. D., Lembo, A., & Lehmann, M. (2023). Prevalence and Associated Factors of Bloating: Results From the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study. Gastroenterology, 165(3), 647–655.e4.
3. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition.
4. Foegeding, E. A., & Luck, P. J. (2002). Milk Proteins: Whey Protein Products. Encyclopedia of Dairy Sciences, 1957-1960.
5. Oh, R., Gilani, B., & Uppaluri, K. R. (2023). Low-Carbohydrate Diet. StatPearls. Available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537084/
6. American Diabetes Association. How to Eyeball a Serving of Carbs. Available at https://diabetes.org/food-nutrition/understanding-carbs/eyeball-carbohydrate-servings
7. Mäkinen K. K. (2016). Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals. International Journal of Dentistry, 2016, 5967907. 
8. Quinten, T., Philippart, J. M., De Beer, T., Vervarcke, S., & Van Den Driessche, M. (2014). Can the supplementation of a digestive enzyme complex offer a solution for common digestive problems?. Archives of Public Health, 72(Suppl 1), P7. 
9. Pasiakos, S. M., McLellan, T. M., & Lieberman, H. R. (2015). The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review. Sports Medicine, 45(1), 111–131. 
10. Nunes, E. A., Colenso-Semple, L., McKellar, S. R., Yau, T., Ali, M. U., Fitzpatrick-Lewis, D., Sherifali, D., Gaudichon, C., Tomé, D., Atherton, P. J., Robles, M. C., Naranjo-Modad, S., Braun, M., Landi, F., & Phillips, S. M. (2022). Systematic review and meta-analysis of protein intake to support muscle mass and function in healthy adults. Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 13(2), 795–810. 
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