Author: Oleksandr Maksymenko (5 years as FPA-Certified Nutritionist, MS in Sports Dietetics)
If you are over 50, protein powder can be a vital part of your daily nutrition and fitness routine. Protein powder is a great way to supplement your current protein intake to improve muscle mass, fight illness and maintain bone density.
The best protein powder for men over 50 as well as for women over 50 is not dissimilar from what makes the best protein for younger individuals. Protein powder for over 50 year olds should offer high quality protein that can be easily absorbed by your body while still tasting good enough to have regularly.
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate.
The best protein powder for men over 50 could go to a number of different options, but Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate makes an incredibly strong case.
Our group of medical experts, certified nutritionists, and professional athletes have thoroughly evaluated 20 protein powders to bring you the top choices – 7 best for people over 50.
They conducted detailed assessments of protein powders across 6 key criteria and collectively spent 7 weeks testing most of them. Besides the extensive testing process, we've also looked at hundreds of user reviews online. We update our list regularly, so we encourage you to contribute your thoughts, share your experiences, and start a conversation!
Top 7 Protein Powders for People Over 50 Reviewed
- Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate — Top Pick
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder — Runner Up
- Naked WHEY 5LB 100% Grass Fed Unflavored Whey Protein Powder
- SASCHA FITNESS Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
- Isopure Zero Carb Protein
- Garden of Life Sport Whey Protein Powder
- Muscle Milk Zero Protein Powder
In this article, I will show you some popular plain protein powder on the market. I have compared all options by the most important characteristics: package, taste, ingredients, blending, and price-quality ratio. Find a brief summary in the table below and scroll down for the most interesting part!
1. Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate — Top Pick
The best protein powder for men over 50 could go to a number of different options, but Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate makes an incredibly strong case.
- Diet Type: Building muscle, cutting weight, muscle recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey Protein isolate
- Serving Size: 33-34.5 g
- Price per Serving: ~$2
- Protein Percent of Calories: 93%
- Proteins: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1-3 gram (depending on flavor)
- Fat: 0 grams
- Added Sugar: 0-1 grams (depending on flavor)
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended by Athletes: Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, Terron Beckham, Paul Sklar, and Sean Harris
Macronutrient breakdown
Macronutrients are the three basic elements in food to pay attention to: fat, carbohydrates, and protein. The Transparent Labs Protein Powder is extremely efficient in its macro usage. With 28 grams of protein, 0-1 fat and 1-3 grams of carbohydrates, you can boost your protein intake without going over your daily recommended values of fat or carbs.
Taste/Flavor
One of the biggest personal factors in any protein powder is the flavor and taste. Transparent Labs sets itself apart from much of the competition by offering some of the best-tasting and most unique flavors on the market. This includes Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon French Toast, Mocha, and much more.
photo by @mathis.bresko
Nutrition Label Transparency
Like any good protein powder, transparency on the nutrition label should be a major factor. For those looking for a protein powder without any additional ingredients, Transparent Labs is a great option. Additionally, under areas such as natural flavors, which many other brands don’t elaborate, Transparent Labs shows each ingredient that falls under this category.
Fat Content Transparency
Similarly to nutrition label transparency, being upfront about fat content plays a big role as well. Like the name suggests, Transparent Labs is transparent about this as well with just 0-1 grams of fat in its protein powder depending on the flavor.
Mixability
While not a huge deal when it comes to the actual nutritional value, the mixability of the protein powder can make a big difference in personal preference. If the powder clumps together or doesn’t dissolve well, it can be a major hassle. Transparent Labs easily mixes into water or other liquids and should not be a problem if you shake or mix well.
Value for Money
While more expensive per serving than many other options on the market, Transparent Labs makes up for this difference by offering a higher amount of protein per serving.
Positives:
High protein per serving
Low carbs and 0-1 grams of fat in each serving
Tons of flavor variety
Could be better:
One of the more expensive options on the market
Not suitable for vegans
2. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder — Runner Up
One of the most consistent and long-standing names in fitness, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder is a great option for anyone looking for a quality protein at an affordable price.
- Diet Type: Build muscle, Muscle recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey Protein Blend of Whey Isolate, Whey Protein Concentrate, and Hydrolyzed Whey
- Serving Size: 1 Scoop (31 grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$1.1
- Protein Percent of Calories: 80%
- Proteins: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Fat: 1.5 grams
- Added Sugar: Not specified
- Company Founded: 1986
- Recommended by Athletes: Taylor Fritz, Justin Jefferson, and Tunde Oyeneyin
Macronutrient breakdown
While still offering a high amount of protein with relatively low carbs and fat, Optimum Nutrition does not score as highly here as many other brands. The protein powder has 4 grams of carbs per serving and 1.5 grams of fat while many other brands can offer little to none of both.
Taste/Flavor
A major area that Optimum Nutrition thrives in is taste a flavor with dozens of different options available to you including classics such as Vanilla Ice Cream, Chocolate Malt and Strawberry and Creme as well as more unique flavors like Coffee and Rocky Road. You should be able to choose a flavor that fits your taste very easily.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Optimum Nutrition Protein powder also scores highly on its nutrition label transparency. However, in sections like natural flavors, the company does not specify each of the natural flavors that go into that which can be a bit clouded for some.
Fat Content Transparency
Much like other options, Optimum Nutrition offers full transparency in its fat content; being completely upfront with how much is in each serving and the portion of that fat which is saturated.
photo by @andriansyah_9
Mixability
Optimum Nutrition scores incredibly highly in mixability. The protein powder stirs very easily into any liquid and should be nearly foolproof even if you are using it as part of a shake with other ingredients.
Value for Money
At just over $1 per serving, Optimum Nutrition might be the best protein for 50 year old man based on the cost alone. Even with a slightly lower protein per serving level, this is still one of the best price per serving options on the market.
Positives:
Low cost per serving
Huge variety in flavors
Long-standing legacy of quality at the company
Could be better:
Higher fat and carb content than other options
Lower protein percentage per serving (compared to the previous protein)
Another great option for building muscle and staying strong is Naked Whey Protein Powder. The protein powder is well-rounded and offers a quality option with full transparency in the ingredients.
- Diet Type: Building muscle, Recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey Protein Concentrate
- Serving Size: 2 Scoops (30 Grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$1.24
- Protein Percent of Calories: 83%
- Proteins: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Company Founded: 2014
- Recommended by Athletes: Kaella Madix and Sunny Lee
Macronutrient breakdown
Naked Whey Protein Powder has a solid breakdown of macronutrients with high amounts of protein per serving with carb and fat. However, it does still have 3 grams of carbs and 2 grams of fat per serving which may dissuade you from choosing it over a different option.
Taste/Flavor
Naked Whey Protein has a solid taste profile and does offer a number of different flavors to fit your personal preferences. However, these flavors are limited to chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, which is markedly lower than both Transparent Labs and Optimum Nutrition.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Much like the name suggests, Naked’s nutrition labels are, well, naked. There is nothing that isn’t explicitly laid out and shown for you. This includes going beyond the normal factors and including independent heavy metals testing and a full amino acid profile as well.
photo by @phaniepacks_kitchen
Fat Content Transparency
Similar to its nutrition label transparency, Naked is completely upfront about its overall fat content as well.
Mixability
Much like the other options on the list, Naked Whey is easily mixable and should not cause you any issues when using it.
Value for Money
Naked Whey scores incredibly well when it comes to value for the money with each serving costing just $1.24 while still offering 25 grams of protein. Along with Optimum Nutrition, Naked Whey is one of the better values you can find.
Positives:
Great value per serving
- Incredibly transparent nutrition and fat labeling
- High protein per serving
Could be better:
Lacks flavor variety
Has carbs and fat in each serving
Built by fitness star Sascha Barboza, Sascha Fitness Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate is designed to help you build lean muscle and keep your weight steady. With a great macronutrient breakdown and solid flavor options, this is a great choice when looking for the best protein powder for men or women over 50.
- Diet Type: Building muscle, Cutting, Recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Isolate
- Serving Size: 1 Scoop (33 grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$1.55
- Protein Percent of Calories: 91%
- Proteins: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
- Fat: 0 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Company Founded: 2016
- Recommended by Athletes: Sascha Barboza (Founder)
Macronutrient breakdown
Perhaps one of the best macronutrient breakdowns on the market, Sascha Fitness Whey Isolate has less than 1 gram of carbs, 0 fat, and 25 grams of protein per serving. This means that you will be able to easily increase your protein intake without going over your other macronutrient needs.
Taste/Flavor
Sascha Fitness scores surprisingly well in taste and flavor considering it has no sugar as well as fat or carbs. Sascha Fitness also comes in 7 different flavors, so you should be able to find a few that will fit your personal tastes.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Sascha Fitness is incredibly transparent with its nutrition label showing off the full amino acid profile and goes into detail behind each ingredient. This also includes its allergen warnings.
Fat Content Transparency
Sascha Fitness also has zero fat in its product at all, so there is of course complete transparency in this regard as well.
Mixability
The protein powder should be fairly easy to mix with any drinks or shakes that you make. Some users have complained about slight clumping when initially mixing the drink, but nothing that should cause any issues.
Value for Money
With 25 grams of protein per serving and a cost of just $1.55 per serving, Sascha fitness is a great value for your wallet and your nutrition.
Positives:
Great macronutrient breakdown
- Quality value for the money per serving
- Very transparent labeling
Could be better:
Possible clumping when mixing
Potential gluten and tree nut cross contamination
For those that are looking for a quality protein with a solid nutritional profile, Isopure Zero Carb Protein may be the right choice for you. The protein powder comes in many flavors and should have all the nutrients you are looking for without any of the carbs.
- Diet Type: Muscle building, Cutting Weight, Recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey/Milk
- Serving Size: 1 Scoop (31 grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$1.72
- Protein Percent of Calories: 91%
- Proteins: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Company Founded: 1984
- Recommended by Athletes: Betina Gozo Shimonek, Kailey Lynn, Ashley Joi, Whitney Davis
Macronutrient breakdown
With 25 grams of protein and just 0.5 grams of fat, Isopure Zero Carb Protein has an excellent macronutrient breakdown. In addition to such low fat content, the protein powder has 0 carbs and 25 grams of protein per serving which should be more than enough, even for those watching their total macro counts closely.
Taste/Flavor
Isopure offers tons of great flavors for you to try from as well. This includes classics such as Cookies and Cream as well as more unique options like Toasted Coconut, Espresso, and Vanilla Salted Caramel.
Nutrition Label Transparency
Isopure also scores well in its transparency on the nutrition label with full breakdowns of many ingredients and the many vitamins that the powder is fortified with. It does however not specify the exact natural flavors in its ingredient list which may be an issue for some buyers.
photo by @thisisroqinjp
Fat Content Transparency
With just 0.5 grams of total fat, there is not a lot to be broken down.
Mixability
Isopure should be relatively easy to mix into your drinks or shakes without causing much clumping. It should also fairly easily dissolve into milk or other liquids.
Value for Money
$1.72 per serving is by no means a bad mark especially considering each serving has 25 grams of protein. However, this is by no means the most economical option.
Positives:
No carbs per serving
Great flavor variety
Easy mixability
Could be better:
Not full nutritional transparency
Average value for the money
When looking for the best protein for an over 50 year old, Garden of Life Whey Protein Powder is a great option for anyone with well-rounded health and fitness goals.
- Diet Type: Building muscle, Recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Whey Protein Isolate and Milk Protein
- Serving Size: 1 Scoop (33 grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$2
- Protein Percent of Calories: 80%
- Proteins: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Company Founded: 2000
- Recommended by Athletes: Vanessa Mimi Wong, Krystal Nielson, Mike Mckee
Macronutrient breakdown
While Garden of Life Whey Protein does offer solid protein per serving, it also has a relatively high amount of carbs per serving at 6 grams. In contrast to this, the protein powder has just 0.5 grams of fat per serving. This is by no means a very poor ratio, but other options offer lower carb content per serving if you are paying close attention to your daily macros.
Taste/Flavor
While Garden of Life Whey Protein Powder does have quality taste, it only offers two flavors: chocolate and vanilla. This may not cover your own personal preferences, but if you are looking for something basic, both options taste solid.
photo by @denisegrubb_healthcoach
Nutrition Label Transparency
Garden of Life is incredibly transparent with its labels; going deep into the amino acid profile, individual ingredients, and even potential allergens.
Fat Content Transparency
Garden of Life scores similarly high on fat content transparency with just 0.5 grams of fat per serving.
Mixability
The protein powder should be easily mixable and not cause any major issues when using it, even when mixed with other ingredients besides water.
Value for Money
With 24 grams of protein per serving at a per serving cost of $2, Garden of Life is not the best value for your money.
Positives:
Incredibly transparent labeling
Quality protein and added probiotics
NSF Certified
Could be better:
More expensive per serving despite just 24 grams of protein
Higher carbs per serving than many other options
When looking for the best protein powder for women over 50, Muscle Milk Zero Protein Powder might be the answer. With lower doses of protein per serving, well-rounded nutrition, and incredibly low calories, the protein powder could fit the goals of many women over 50 with ease.
- Diet Type: Building muscle, Recovery
- Suitable for Vegans: No
- Protein Source: Calcium Caseinate, Sodium Caseinate, and Whey Protein Isolate
- Serving Size: 2 Scoops (30 grams)
- Price per Serving: ~$1.00
- Protein Percent of Calories: 60%
- Proteins: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 9 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Added Sugar: 0 grams
- Company Founded: 1998
- Recommended by Athletes: Alex Silver Fagan, Candace Parker, Tua Tagovailoa, Gerren Liles
Macronutrient breakdown
While by no means a terrible macronutrient breakdown, Muscle Milk Zero Protein Powder has 9 grams of carbs and 2 grams of fat per serving with just 15 grams of protein. This may dissuade many buyers who are looking for a higher protein intake without as spending as many macros. However, for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and muscle mass, the added carbs and fat should be a benefit
Taste/Flavor
Muscle Milk has become known fairly well as the standard-bearers for both chocolate and vanilla flavors which is a major plus. However, these are also the only two options that the company offers for this type of protein powder.
photo by @mrsbusterw
Nutrition Label Transparency
The protein powder remains highly transparent on its nutrition label showing off both the full itemized list of ingredients as well as all the vitamins and minerals added as well.
Fat Content Transparency
Similarly, Muscle Milk breaks down which portions of the fat in each serving come from saturated fat. 2 grams of fat per serving should also not be an issue.
Mixability
Muscle Milk is easy to mix even when using milk or adding it to a more complex protein shake.
Value for Money
At just $1 per serving, it seems on the surface as one of the most affordable protein powders. This must also be balanced with just 15 grams of protein per serving.
Positives:
Affordable price per serving
Just 100 calories per serving
Transparent nutrition label
Easy to mix
Could be better:
Low protein per serving
High carbs per serving
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Why do people over 50 need protein?
✅ Maintaining Muscle Mass
For men and women over 50, one of the biggest changes to happen in your body will be a loss of muscle mass. This can eventually translate into a decline in mobility and overall “functioning”. In order to prevent this, you may need to supplement your current protein intake with a protein powder.
✅ Potential Benefits in Fighting Illness and Infection
As our bodies get older, we are more prone to infections and illnesses which can lead to inflammation. During this period of time, our bodies require a higher amount of protein to help fight it. Furthermore, there are some medications you may take that could increase your protein needs as well.
✅ Rounding Out Nutritional Needs
Another major factor of aging can be the amount of the nutrients our bodies need to absorb. As your body ages, it can require higher amounts of key nutrients, such as protein in order to maintain healthy functionality. As a result, increasing your protein with a supplement on top of your current diet can be a major benefit.
How to Find the Best Protein Powder for People Over 50?
1. Protein Source
2. Grams of Protein Per Serving
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
3. Calories and Nutritional Value
2 Protein Consumption Tips for People Over 50
1. Use It as a Supplement and Not a Meal Replacement
One of the issues with many protein powder users is trying to replace other meals in their lives with it. You should always treat protein powder as a supplement to an already full meal schedule. In order for you to get the most out of your protein powder, you should make sure to be eating full, nutritious meals in addition to drinking a shake.
2. Consume it Around Your Workouts
Oftentimes it can be hard to determine the right time to have your protein powder. For those that are using it as a nutritional supplement and have no significant fitness goals, you can consume your protein shake in the morning or with a meal. However, for those that are exercising often, the best course of action is to have your protein around a workout to help improve muscle recovery and growth.
FAQ
Is Whey Protein Good for 50 Year Olds?
In short, yes. Whey protein is one of the most widely available types of protein powder on the market and for good reason. It is easily absorbed by your body so you can maximize how effective it is.
How Much Protein Do I Need to Build Muscle At 50?
Depending on your fitness goals and personal preferences, it is recommended to have at least 1-1.2 grams of protein per 1 kg of body weight. To maintain muscle mass, older people may need about 1.6-1.8 g of protein per 1 kg of body weight.
Conclusion
When looking for the best protein powder for over 50 year olds, it is important to pay attention to a number of different factors based on your personal goals. However, while there are many great options to choose from, Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate might be the best of them. Let us know what protein you use and any questions you might have in the comments!
References:
- 10 Science-Backed Reasons to Eat More Protein // Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-reasons-to-eat-more-protein
- Protein and older adults // National Library of Medicine: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15640517/
- Your Body Absorbs Casein Protein Slower Than Whey // Healthline:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/casein-vs-whey#absorption - Rethinking Protein Needs for Older Adults // University Health & Nutrition Letter: https://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/general-nutrition/rethinking-protein-needs-for-older-adults/
- What to Know About Protein Powders for Men Over 50 // WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/what-to-know-about-protein-powders-men-over-50
- Protein intake and exercise for optimal muscle function with aging: Recommendations from the ESPEN Expert Group // ESPEN: https://www.espen.org/files/PIIS0261561414001113.pdf
- All Photos made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
Experience: 7 years
Specializing in: Weight management, Fitness / Sports nutrition
Oleksandr is a professional fitness nutritionist, certified by FPA (Fitness Professional Association). Oleksandr adheres to the principles of evidence-based dietetics and instills in his clients a healthy relationship with food - without strict prohibitions on favorite foods and regular disruptions. His main task – not only get a result for you, but also maintain it for many years, enjoying tasty and delicious food.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.
