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Sugar-free protein powders can be an absolute game-changer for your fitness routine. Here, we'll highlight some of the best sugar-free powders for you
Our top picks
Plant based
Pulsin
Pulsin Complete Vegan Protein Blend Chocolate Powder 250g
€18.00
Versatile
PhD
PhD Smart Protein Plant Chocolate Cookie 500g
€26.00
Salted caramel
PhD
PhD Smart Protein Plant Salted Caramel 500g
€26.00
You’ve probably heard about the possible benefits of protein powders for enhancing muscle growth, supporting weight loss or simply supplementing your daily protein intake. But if you’re watching your sugar intake, you might be wondering whether there are any sugar-free options available.
Well, the answer is yes! There are plenty of sugar-free protein powders out there, and they could be a complete game-changer for your fitness journey.
Let’s talk about sugar-free protein powders
For gym-goers, bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts, combining strength training with protein supplementation is believed to be a great way to improve the strength and size of your muscles.1,2
This is because protein-rich foods like these contain amino acids – small molecules that your body uses to build protein and contribute towards the growth and maintenance of muscle mass.3,4
However, not all protein powders are created equal. For instance, some sneak in added sugars or artificial sweeteners to make them more palatable.5,6
So if you’re looking for a sugar-free alternative that offers muscle-boosting benefits without any unwanted sugar spikes, you’re in the right place.
Our pick of the top sugar-free protein powders
Whether you’re an athlete striving for peak performance, an individual on a weight loss journey or a vegan looking to boost your protein intake, there’s thought to be a protein powder for everyone. Here are, what we believe to be, the best on the market.
Pulsin Pea Protein packs a powerful punch with its high protein content derived from yellow peas. It’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions as it’s gluten-free, vegan-friendly and contains no added sugars or artificial additives.7
Each serving offers around 80% protein content with minimal carbohydrates and fats, making it an ideal choice for those focusing on lean muscle or weight management. It’s rich in essential amino acids to support muscle recovery and growth. The powder is unflavoured, so you can add protein to soups, cereals or desserts without altering their flavour.
Who might like it? Athletes, fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking to support muscle recovery and growth without loading up on unnecessary sugars.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 10g serving
- Protein per serving: 8.2g
- Calories per serving: 41kcal
PhD Smart Protein Plant Chocolate Cookie is a great option for satisfying your sweet tooth while maintaining a sugar-free lifestyle. This delicious blend combines pea and soya proteins with rich cocoa for a comprehensive amino acid profile and decadent treat.8 With each scoop, you’ll enjoy a creamy texture and a satisfying dose of protein to fuel your active lifestyle.
With 20g of protein per serving and low carbs and fats, it’s perfect for helping to build lean muscle without derailing your nutrition goals.
Who might like it? Fitness enthusiasts who crave a chocolatey treat without the sugar crash and individuals following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 25g serving
- Protein per serving: 20g
- Calories per serving: 96kcal
Another fantastic option is Pulsin Soya Protein Powder, which offers a smooth and creamy texture without added sugar. This protein powder contains non-GMO soya beans as a source of plant-based protein – perfect for vegans and vegetarians.9 It’s also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a versatile addition to your diet.
With approximately 90% protein content per serving, this powder provides a complete amino acid profile, supporting muscle repair and growth while keeping carb and fat intake in check.9
Who might like it? Vegans, vegetarians, individuals with lactose intolerance and anyone looking for a sustainable protein source free from animal products and added sugars.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 10g serving
- Protein per serving: 9g
- Calories per serving: 37kcal
Indulge in the irresistible flavour of PhD Smart Protein Plant Salted Caramel. This creamy and decadent protein powder delivers all the sweetness you crave without any added sugar. It combines pea and soya proteins for a deliciously satisfying post-workout shake, providing a sustained release of energy that keeps you fuelled throughout the day.10
With 21g of protein in each serving and no added sugars, it’s a smart choice for satisfying cravings while supporting muscle recovery and growth.
Who might like it? Anyone with a sweet tooth who wants to satisfy their cravings while staying on track with their fitness and nutrition goals.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 25g serving
- Protein per serving: 21g
- Calories per serving: 97kcal
Pulsin Complete Vegan Protein Blend Chocolate Powder combines the goodness of pea, faba bean (also known as broad bean) and pumpkin seed proteins to create a rich and satisfying protein powder.11
Whether you need a post-workout pick-me-up, a mid-afternoon energy boost or even a delicious addition to your morning smoothie, this powder has got your back. Mix it with water, blend it into your favourite shake, sprinkle it over your oatmeal… the possibilities are endless.
Each serving is also packed with essential amino acids, making it an excellent option for those seeking a complete vegan protein source. Plus, it’s low in sugar and carbs, meaning you can indulge in the chocolate flavour guilt-free.
Who might like it? Vegans, individuals with allergies to dairy and soy and anyone looking for a versatile and delicious protein powder to support their active lifestyle.
- Sugar per serving: 0.7g per 28g serving
- Protein per serving: 20g
- Calories per serving: 105kcal
Get ready to savour the sweetness of summer with PhD Smart Protein Plant Strawberry flavour.
Bursting with the taste of ripe strawberries, this sugar-free protein powder is a delightful way to satisfy your cravings while maintaining your fitness goals. Its pea and soya protein blend provides a comprehensive amino acid profile to help optimal muscle repair and recovery.12
With 20g of protein per serving and minimal carbs and fats, it’s a refreshing option for those seeking a fruity twist in their protein shake without the sugar overload.
Who might like it? Fitness enthusiasts looking for a tasty post-workout refresher or fruity addition to their protein smoothies (without compromising on nutrition), as well as individuals following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 25g serving
- Protein per serving: 20g
- Calories per serving: 96kcal
If you’re searching for a pure, unflavoured collagen supplement that can help support your skin, hair, nails and joint health, look no further than Applied Nutrition’s Collagen Peptides.
Available as a powder, this sugar-free protein supplement dissolves easily into both hot and cold liquids, making it an ideal addition to your daily routine.13
Whether you’re stirring it into your morning cup of tea, blending it into a post-workout smoothie or adding it to some of your favourite recipes, this collagen powder integrates also seamlessly into all sorts of foods and drinks without altering or compromising the taste.13
Each serving also provides 19g of high-quality, halal-certified collagen protein, sourced from grass-fed cows.13 It’s also completely sugar-free and has no artificial sweeteners or unnecessary additives, making it an ideal choice to boost your protein intake while looking after your health.
Who might like it? Fitness enthusiasts looking to support their joint, skin and hair health, and individuals seeking to add a clean, versatile protein supplement into their day-to-day lives.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 20g serving
- Protein per serving: 19g
- Calories per serving: 76kcal
Quench your thirst for a refreshing protein boost with Optimum Nutrition Clear Plant Protein Isolate Lime Sorbet flavour.
This innovative protein powder combines the goodness of plant-based protein with the zesty taste of lime, all without a hint of added sugar. It’s the perfect choice for mixing into smoothies or simply shaking up with water for a quick and easy post-workout refresher.14
Since each serving offers 20g of protein, zero sugar and minimal calories, it’s the ideal choice for those watching their calorie intake or following a low-carb diet.
Who might like it? Fitness enthusiasts who want to switch up their protein routine with a light and refreshing flavour and individuals following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
- Sugar per serving: 0g per 28g serving
- Protein per serving: 20g
- Calories per serving: 90kcal
The final say
Sugar-free protein powders offer a convenient, versatile and health-conscious option for enhancing nutrition, supporting fitness objectives and maintaining overall well-being.
Whether you’re an athlete, on a weight loss journey or committed to a vegan lifestyle, there’s an option for you among the sugar-free protein powders on our list.
From versatile, unflavoured varieties to indulgent dessert-inspired flavours, these protein powders cater to various tastes and dietary needs, helping provide your body with the nutrition it deserves.
If, however, you suffer from a medical condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a nutritionist or healthcare professional for their personalised advice to help ensure your safety at all times.
While we strive for accuracy and balance, please be aware that this article may discuss products available for purchase through Holland & Barrett. Consult a healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
1. Morton, RW., et al. A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2017;52(6):376–84. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-097608.
2. Tagawa R, Watanabe D, Ito K, Takeru Otsuyama, Nakayama K, Chiaki Sanbongi, et al. Synergistic Effect of Increased Total Protein Intake and Strength Training on Muscle Strength: A Dose-Response Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Sports medicine - open/Sports medicine - Open [Internet]. 2022 Sep 4 [cited 2024 Jun 18];8(1). Available from: https://sportsmedicine-open.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40798-022-00508-w
3. Lopez, MJ., et al. Biochemistry, essential amino acids [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557845
4. European Commission. Food and Feed Information Portal Database. Protein: Art.13(1) [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 17]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6446
5. The whey and casein protein powder consumption: The implications for public health - ProQuest [Internet]. Proquest.com. 2018 [cited 2024 Jun 18]. Available from: https://www.proquest.com/openview/9dd064823cede26d066d058c6de03222/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2034853
6. Parker MN, K. Lopetcharat, Drake MA. Consumer acceptance of natural sweeteners in protein beverages. Journal of dairy science [Internet]. 2018 Oct 1 [cited 2024 Jun 18];101(10):8875–89. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030218306775
7. Pulsin Pea Protein [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.pulsin.co.uk/product/pulsin-pea-protein
8. Smart Plant Protein Powder - Chocolate Cookie [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.phd.com/smart-protein-plant-powder-500g-chocolate-cookie
9. Pulsin Soya Protein [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.pulsin.co.uk/product/pulsin-soya-protein
10. Smart Plant Protein Powder - Salted Caramel [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.phd.com/smart-protein-plant-500g-salted-caramel
11. Pulsin Complete Vegan Protein Blend Chocolate [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.pulsin.co.uk/product/complete-vegan-protein-blend-chocolate
12. Smart Plant Protein Powder - Strawberry [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.phd.com/smart-protein-plant-500g-eton-mess.
13. Applied Nutrition. Collagen Peptides [Internet]. [cited 2024 Jul 4]. Available from: https://appliednutrition.uk/products/collagen-peptides-300g.
14. ON Clear Protein 100% Plant Protein Isolate [Internet]. [cited 2024 Apr 15]. Available from: https://www.optimumnutrition.com/en-gb/Products/Plant/ON-Clear-Protein-100%25-Plant-Protein-Isolate/p/C101450.
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