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As early as 1990s, doctors and nutritionists only knew gluten to be the result of a chemical bond between the molecules of glutenin and gliadin that allowed things like pizza dough to have its sticky character.
Today, we know that about 1 percent of the population suffers from celiac disease which is an intestinal condition triggered by exposure to this ingredient.
But, many health professionals believe its danger do not stop there.
As such, gluten-free foods and supplements have become a hot item and there are a growing number of people who consume these types of products.
As a certified nutritionist and fitness professional I have personal experience with several top gluten free protein powders. My unique background helps me to understand the benefits of these powders as well as the precautions needed when taking them.
Below we'll take a close look at the top gluten-free protein powders on the market today.
Our Top 7 Gluten-Free Protein Powders (September 2023)
1 - Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate (Editor's Choice)
When it comes to whey protein isolate, quality is as important as quantity. That’s exactly why Transparent Labs has created this a gluten-free product exclusively sourced from grass-fed cows.
This significantly improves the quality of the protein, making it more complete and easier for your body to digest.
Aside from offering gluten-free whey protein powders, the company also prides itself in the GMO-free certificate and no artificial additives. It means that you're getting protein naturally, even when it isn't pea protein.
As per the nutrition label, you will get 28g of protein in each serving, which is on the high side for the average protein powders.
- 28g of whey protein in every serving
- 100% gluten-free and non-GMO for added peace of mind
- No artificial additives for flavor or color that could cause side effects
- Only 1g of carbs to not mess with diet efforts
- Zero fat to account for on your diet plan
- Not available as an unflavored protein powder
And the good news for dieters is that it only contains 1g of carbs, so it won’t mess up your glucose levels too much.
Overall, it’s a good product that many have positively reviewed online. The product is also the Editor's Choice for the Best lactose-free powders and Best protein powders for runners.
Get 10% off using coupon code: TOTALSHAPE
2 - Orgain Organic
Orgain Organic is produced in a certified organic facility and is ideal for vegans or vegetarians. On top of that, it just happens to be one of the highest quality gluten-free protein powders you can buy.
The company does not use GMOs to try and prop up their product, hence providing purity and efficacy in their gluten-free protein powders.
- 100% brown rice protein free of genetically modified organisms
- Produced in a certified USDA facility
- Mixes easily with virtually anything
- Affordably priced
- Quickly becomes chalky if you mix it too much
The complete protein here is derived from hemp and brown rice protein, which is known to be rich in iron, calcium and magnesium and low in carbs and calories.
In addition to being gluten-free, there's no added sugars, no artificial preservatives, no soy and it comes in a variety of natural flavors. It's probably going to cost you more, but it's always worth the stretch.
3 - CLICK Coffee & Protein
This versatile protein powder can curb appetites on a gluten-free diet, give you an energy boost, and even function as a complete meal replacement packed full of nutrients, all whilst being completely gluten-free.
CLICK Coffee & Protein relies heavily on the natural appetite suppression provided by coffee to kick start a positive change in its users.
It works just as well for those who are looking to bulk up as it does those after a more lean physique.
The taste is great, made from real espresso, so any java fiends out there will be very happy.
- Works as a complete meal replacement
- Encourages healthy eating habits
- Appetite-suppressant and energy booster
- Obviously not suitable for those sensitive to caffeine
It also gives the necessary energy boost that one expects from a coffee-focused product and encourages a bigger burn down the gym, as well as providing the protein your muscles need to go harder and recover quicker.
There are a wide variety of flavors to choose from and you can make significant savings if you buy in bulk to try them all out.
4 - Vega Sport
Vega Sport is considered more than just one of the top vegan protein powders on the market, it's also considered one of the top protein shake supplements available on the market.
Vega Sport achieves that impressive double play by paying attention to the details. Their protein powder is carefully formulated with pre and probiotics to create a healthy digestive environment.
This protein powder for a gluten-free diet is also derived from not one but five different plant-based sources and contains plenty of BCAAs your body needs in order to recover from a vigorous workout.
On top of that, Vega Sport is produced in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Non-GMO protein powders
- Low in both saturated fat and carbs
- Rich in branched chain amino acids
- Extremely easy to digest
- Recently changed its flavor
This protein powder is low in both carbs and saturated fat, is devoid of any hint of genetically modified organisms and is the perfect supplement for those on the ketogenic diet.
Although, Vega Sport is also known to be the most affordable product available, it can still create tasty drinks.
5 - Isopure Zero Carb
Isopure Zero Carb is a great way to power up your keto diet and to derive enhanced results from your time in the gym. Isopure is 100% gluten-free whey protein powder.
It also helps in delivering nutrients to overworked muscles post-workout like other protein powders, as well as provide the strength and endurance you'll need prior to your workout.
Because Isopure is whey protein, it's not going to be for everyone. However, if you are not lactose intolerant or vegan, then Isopure will help you achieve the lean, muscular physique that you want.
Isopure Wis available in a variety of flavors, so there's bound to be one that's suitable to your taste preference.
- Has zero carbs for those on the keto diet
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals
- Lactose-free protein powders
- Is an effective whey protein isolate
- Contains a few artificial ingredients
Have your meal replacement shakes first thing in the morning to jump-start your day or after your workout to activate the process of recovery.
Also read: Best Low-Carb Protein Powders
6 - Muscle Milk
Each serving of Muscle Milk protein powder contains 32 grams of protein and is low in calories and rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium.
It is also loaded with vitamins A, C and D while being devoid of genetically modified organisms.
Each Muscle Milk protein shake provides an array other nutrients you need when you're trying to establish new personal bests, and it does so without bombarding you with artificial flavor enhancers, preservatives, or colors.
Mix Muscle Milk with water or milk or add it to your pancake or muffin batter.
- Provides an array of beneficial vitamins
- Great protein powder for pre or post-workout supplementation
- Rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium
- Contains 32 grams of protein per serving
- Contains a couple of seemingly unnecessary additives
If you’ve been experiencing a lack of energy in the gym or protracted recovery times after strenuous workouts, this will fill help the nutritional gap and get you back to help you achieve a leaner, stronger you.
7 - PlantFusion Complete Protein
Plant-based protein is known to be more easily digestible which means you don't usually need as much to get the results you're after.
You can now stop consuming ridiculously large amounts of animal-based protein supplements to achieve the same benefits with these healthy shakes.
With PlantFusion gluten-free and non-GMO protein powders, you get all the nutrients you need and none of the soy, eggs, fish, nuts, or lactose you don't need.
Because you don't need so much, your complete protein shakes becomes a satisfying experience.
Each serving provides 21 grams of efficacious, gluten-free plant-based protein, a scant 120 calories, and zero saturated fats.
- High in naturally occurring branched chain amino acids
- Is a gluten-free and dairy-free protein powder with no artificial sweeteners
- Mixes easily for delicious gluten free shakes
- No genetically modified ingredients
- Contains 390 mg of sodium in the average serving
PlantFusion protein powders are also hypoallergenic, and there isn't a genetically modified organism anywhere to be found in their state-of-the-art production facility.
Is Whey Gluten-Free?
Yes, whey is gluten-free. Whether in concentrate, isolate, or hydrolysate form, whey protein itself does not contain this ingredient.
This means that if you suffer from any gluten sensitivities, consuming whey protein should be a safe thing to do. [1]
However, and this is important, there are some types of supposedly gluten-free whey protein powders that include additives in their formulation.
Glutamine, for instance, is a fairly common additive in protein powders that is derived from wheat just like gluten and which many health professionals say should be avoided if you suffer from its intolerance through the consumption of gluten-free products.
100% pure whey protein is naturally gluten-free; however, you may be concerned about some versions of whey protein that contain peptide bound glutamine derived from wheat protein. Those products should not be used if you have celiac disease or are gluten sensitive.
- A Stewart, MBA, RD.
Why is Gluten Added to Some Protein Powders?
Gluten is added to some whey protein powders to act as a flavoring, stabilizer, or preservative. It helps improve the texture and makes smoother gluten-free replacement shakes.
As we said at the outset, gluten has the ability to, among other things, cause pizza dough to bond and become malleable.
This is one of the reasons why it’s found in so many different products. It’s also for that reason that it is sometimes added to protein powders except pea protein, for example.
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In addition, peptide-bound glutamine is sometimes added to the supplement to cover for a loss of essential amino acids during processing.
Choosing the Best Gluten-Free Supplement
As you have likely deduced by now, this can be a tricky ingredient to track down.
The fact that protein powders are not subject to FDA regulations only complicates the matter, allowing companies to claim their protein is gluten-free while at the same time they add glutamine to their protein powder to make it more agreeable. It applies even when they're from pea protein powders.
Should you see any of the following on the ingredient list you'll want to take a pass:
- Glutamine
- Wheat Starch
- Triticale
- Malts
Like Celiac disease, gluten sensitivity is a condition in which the immune system is activated by gluten, causing inflammation and intestinal permeability. But the immune system is not attacking the lining of the small intestine, like it is in Celiac disease.
- Steven Wright, SCD Lifestyle
FAQs
What is the best gluten-free protein powder to build muscle?
Whey is the best gluten-free protein powder to build muscle. It provides the most extensive range of essential amino acids in the right concentration.
Your muscles will have all the essential ingredients to repair and build new muscle fibers, and it’s also one of the fastest types of proteins to digest.
Is gluten-free protein powder bad for your kidneys?
No, gluten-free protein powder isn't bad for your kidneys. In fact, the opposite is true in some cases. For example, if you have a gluten intolerance, regular exposure to it can cause inflammation in the intestines and have a knock-on effect on other organs, including the kidneys.
It's best to consult a doctor before taking a gluten-free supplement or any other dietary supplement. That way, you'll know whether your body is fit to consume these supplements since you might be unaware of some pre-existing conditions like allergies or ingredient sensitivity.
Is too much gluten-free protein powder bad for you?
Yes, taking too much gluten-free protein powder is bad for you. Taking more than the recommended dosage will likely cause unpleasant side effects such as bloating and imbalances in your gut flora.
Are there any side effects with taking gluten-free powder?
Yes, there are side effects to taking gluten-free powder, but only if you take it in very large quantities.
Exceeding the daily recommended dose of any protein powder can cause stomach upset, nausea, headaches, and some cramping as well. These are fully reversible by taking a break from the supplement.
Our #1 Gluten-Free Protein Powder
Today, increasing evidence suggests that gluten may not be the benign ingredient it was once thought to be. As such, an increasing number of health-conscious individuals are striking this from their diet.
If you enjoy working out but are sensitive to this ingredient, or if you just wish to eliminate this possible health hazard from your gluten-free diet, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate should be considered your top gluten-free choice.
It’s gluten-free, produced in a state-of-the-art facility, has no iffy ingredients, contains plenty of beneficial BCAAs, and is low in both carbs and saturated fats.
We can say for certain that Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate delivers when it comes to purity, quality, effectiveness, and affordability, among the other gluten-free protein powders on our list.
Our #1 Gluten Free Protein Powder
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- 28g of whey protein in every serving
- 100% gluten-free and non-GMO for added peace of mind
- No artificial additives for flavor or color that could cause side effects
- Only 1g of carbs to not mess with diet efforts
- Zero fat to account for on your diet plan
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
- Not available as an unflavored protein powder
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Nice read. Well, gluten doesn’t look bad at all. But are there any other side effects aside from those who have celiac disease? I’m just curious.
Hi Mindy! Good question. Aside from celiac disease, some gluten side effects are bloating, diarrhea, headaches, depression, and joint & muscle pain. When choosing dietary supplements, we highly suggest that you choose a gluten free protein powder to avoid these symptoms. You can never go wrong with whey protein on this one. Thanks!