When we started using vegan protein powders, we thought all of them were healthy. But after trying different brands, we realized that some contain unnecessary additives and low-quality ingredients. If you want to choose the best option, here’s what you should avoid in vegan protein powders.

1. Artificial Sweeteners and Sugar Alcohols

Some vegan protein powders contain artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame to improve taste. While they may seem harmless, they can cause bloating and digestive issues.

 Avoid:

• Sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame K – Linked to digestive discomfort.
• Sugar alcohols (sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol) – Can cause bloating and gas.

 Best choice: Look for natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or coconut sugar.

2. Gums and Thickeners

To improve texture, some brands add gums and thickeners that can be hard on digestion.

 Avoid:

• Xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan – Can cause bloating and inflammation.

 Best choice: Choose a clean protein powder with minimal ingredients.

3. Low-Quality Protein Sources

Not all plant proteins are created equal. Some powders use low-quality or incomplete protein sources, which don’t provide the full range of essential amino acids.

 Avoid:

• Single-source proteins like rice protein alone (unless combined with other sources).

 Best choice: Choose a blend of pea + rice + hemp or soy protein for a complete amino acid profile.

4. Heavy Metals and Contaminants

Some cheap protein powders have been found to contain traces of heavy metals (like lead and arsenic) due to poor sourcing.

 Avoid:

• Non-organic brands with no third-party testing.

 Best choice: Look for organic, non-GMO, and third-party tested protein powders to ensure purity.

5. Too Many Fillers and Preservatives

Some brands add unnecessary fillers to increase volume or extend shelf life, but these don’t add nutritional value.

 Avoid:

• Soy lecithin (unless organic and non-GMO).
• Preservatives and artificial flavors.

 Best choice: Pick a protein powder with a simple, short ingredient list.

6. Excessive Sodium or Added Sugar

Some vegan protein powders contain too much sodium or hidden sugars, which can be bad for health.

 Avoid:

• More than 5g of added sugar per serving.
• Excess sodium (over 300mg per serving).

 Best choice: Choose an unsweetened or naturally sweetened protein powder.

Final Thought

What should you avoid in vegan protein powders? Artificial sweeteners, gums, low-quality proteins, heavy metals, fillers, and excess sugar or sodium. By choosing a clean, high-quality protein powder with minimal ingredients, you’ll get the best nutrition without unnecessary additives.

Now it’s up to you—check the labels, choose wisely, and fuel your body with the cleanest plant-based protein!