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4 min read<\/p>\n4 min read<\/p>\n
WHETHER YOU\u2019RE BULKING up, leaning out, or just need something to tide you over between meals, you’ve probably had your fair share of protein shakes<\/a>. As a registered dietitian<\/a>, I’m here for it.<\/p>\n But for me, there’s nothing less appealing after a sweaty run than a milk-based shake. That\u2019s where clear protein comes in.<\/p>\n Not only do clear protein drinks offer a different texture and taste from more traditional protein drinks, they often have a different nutritional profile too. Specifically, they’re lower in calories<\/a>, carbs<\/a>, and fat<\/a>, and may even be easier to digest (especially if you struggle with lactose intolerance).<\/p>\n But what exactly is clear protein? And do any of these products\u2014from powders to pre-mixed drinks\u2014actually taste good? I sampled buckets-full of the stuff and there are some clear winners.<\/p>\n How I Tested Clear Protein<\/p>\n I TRIED EIGHT of the most popular clear protein drinks on the market so you can choose the one that best fits your fitness goals and taste preferences. After reviewing each products ingredients and protein content<\/a>, I made each drink according to the directions and poured it over ice.<\/p>\n Here’s what I looked for:<\/p>\n Protein Type and Content<\/p>\n Most clear protein drinks use whey protein isolate for the most concentrated, lowest lactose whey protein<\/a>, but there are plant-based clear protein drinks available as well. The amount of protein in each drink ranges from 10 grams to 30 grams.<\/p>\n Your daily protein needs likely range from 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight, with slightly higher amounts<\/a> during periods of heavy training. (Not sure how much protein you need? A registered dietitian can help.) A 10-gram protein drink is perfect for boosting the protein content of a meal or snack, while you may want a 20- to 30-gram protein drink to knock back post-workout.<\/p>\n Sweeteners<\/p>\n Most clear protein drinks rely on no-calorie or low-calorie sweeteners such as stevia, monk fruit, or sucralose to add sweetness without calories or carbs. Some people want to avoid artificial sweeteners, while others are put off by the aftertaste of stevia or monk fruit, so we’re calling out which is used in each drink. All of the choices below have 5 grams of carbohydrates or less.<\/p>\n Flavor and Texture<\/p>\n It’s 2026. We’re done choking down chalky, gross drinks in the name of more protein. While highly subjective, I tried the top-selling flavors of each option to give you my honest opinion on the texture, flavor, and overall vibe of each drink.<\/p>\n Best Overall Clear Protein Drink: MindBodyGreen Clear Whey Protein+<\/p>\n If heavy, overly-flavored drinks are hard to stomach after a tough workout, this clear grass-fed whey protein isolate is a solid choice. Not only does each serving offer 22 grams of whey protein isolate, but it also has 2.5 grams of leucine to support muscle growth and recovery<\/a>.<\/p>\n Using a shaker, this powder mixes completely, leaving no residue or chalkiness behind. The flavor is light, not overly sweet, and the texture is close to water, which is a big perk if you’re looking for an easy-drinking protein option.<\/p>\n Key Specs:Protein per serving: 22 gramsProtein source: whey protein isolateSweeteners: stevia, fermented rebaudioside M (OnoSweet)Flavors available: pink lemonadeCost per serving: $3.45Best Tasting: Clean Simple Eats Clear Protein Soda<\/p>\n They have two size options: a 12-ounce and a 16-ounce can, with 10 or 20 grams of whey protein isolate to help you hit your protein goals. The soda is fizzy, crisp, and refreshing, with the perfect amount of tart and sweet. While the price is higher than many powders, it’s ready to drink with zero settling or clumping.<\/p>\n Key Specs:Protein per serving: 10 grams (in a 12-ounce can) or 20 grams (in a 26-ounce can)Protein source: grass-fed whey protein isolateSweeteners: reb M (OnoSweet), stevia leaf extractFlavors available: sour green apple, cherry lime, frosted lemonade, classic grapeCost per serving: $2.99 for a 12-ounce can, $3.58 for a 16-ounce canBest for Digestion: Bloom Clear Protein This powder combines 15 grams of whey protein isolate and 5 grams of collagen peptides for a fruity-sweet drink with 20 grams of protein. In addition to protein, it also includes a 25-milligram blend of eight digestive enzymes. (While this exact blend and dose haven’t been studied, blends with similar enzyme profiles<\/a> have been shown to reduce symptoms such as bloating, heartburn, and gas for some people.)<\/p>\n The higher amount of collagen in this powder does make the prepared drink a bit thicker than some other varieties, but the powder completely dissolves for a smooth texture, albeit with a light foamy layer that sticks around the top. The flavor is light and sweet, but does come with a bit of a chalky, astringent aftertaste.<\/p>\n![\"Clear](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/259a1d3d-5f7a-4da2-848b-57d65cabcf9a.jpeg\" "\\"Clear")
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