Gut Friendly Protein Powders?

Protein powders have become popular supplements for Athletes and bodybuilders. However, not all protein powders are created equal when it comes to digestive health. Some can be harsh on the stomach, while others are specifically formulated to be easy on the gut.

If you have issues with bloating, gas, cramps, or other digestive discomfort when using protein supplements, a gut-friendly option may help provide the protein you need without the unwanted side effects. Here’s an overview of what makes a protein powder gut-friendly and Here are some best options-

What Makes a Protein Powder Gut-Friendly?

Gut friendly protein powders characteristics are given below-

1. Semi Hydrolyzed proteins – Proteins are chains of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. Hydrolyzed proteins have already broken some of these bonds through an enzymatic process to make shorter amino acid chains. This process helps the protein to digest easily.

2. Sources of protein – Some sources, like whey concentrate, can be tougher to break down and absorb than others, like egg white protein or collagen peptides. It is always recommeneded to Choose easily digested protein sources, which ensures less work for your gut.

3. No added ingredients – Many protein powders contain artificial sweeteners, gums, and stabilizers. Eliminating unnecessary additives prevents digestive irritation.

4. Enzymes or probiotics – Some gut-friendly protein powders add enzymes like bromelain, papain or probiotic cultures which actively help digest and process the protein. This further reduces the work your own gut has to do to benefit from the supplement.

Top 5 Gut-Friendly Protein Powders

If you’re looking for a protein powder supplement that will agree with your stomach, here are five of the top-rated gut-friendly options:

1. Designs for Health Paleo Protein

• Partially hydrolyzed egg and beef proteins
• Easy on stomach with rapid 30-minute absorption
• No soy or dairy allergens
• Enzyme assimil for easier digestion
• 20g protein per serving

2. Renew Life Organic Grass Fed Collagen Peptides

• Premium collagen sourced from pasture-raised cows
• Naturally gut-soothing glycine and proline amino acids
• Easily mixed into smoothies, coffee, etc
• Virtually flavorless and odorless
• 10g protein per serving

3. Precision Engineered Whey Protein Isolate

• Exceptionally pure undenatured whey isolate
• Fast-acting with high 98% protein content
• Tested in lab to be lactose-free
• No artificial sweeteners, fillers or additives
• 25g protein per serving

4. Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder

• Mild pea, brown rice and chia protein sources
• 6g fiber from chia and acacia gum
• Mixed berry flavor with only 1g sugar
• Vegan, kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO
• 21g protein per serving

5. Humm Gut Super Powder

• Fermented pea and rice protein blend
• Added digestive enzymes and probiotic cultures
• Soothes intestines and promotes gut barrier
• No added junk like artificial flavors or fats
• 20g protein per serving

Tips for Choosing Your Gut-Friendly Protein Powder

Focus on high-quality sources, clean ingredients, digestive support enzymes or probiotics, and easily absorbed hydrolyzed proteins when selecting a gut-friendly protein powder supplement. Pay attention to how many grams of protein you get per serving and pick natural flavors you enjoy over artificial ones.

Start slowly with a single scoop mixed into foods like overnight oats or smoothies rather than trying to drink protein shakes, which can concentrate ingredients and lead to intestinal upset. Stay adequately hydrated as well since protein supplementation increases metabolic water needs.

Be sure to listen to your own body’s responses. Some individuals may be sensitive even to generally gut-friendly proteins. Switching products or integrating digestive aids like probiotics or peppermint oil capsules can help you find your optimal protein supplement.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best protein powder for your digestion ultimately requires some personal experimentation. Not all gut-friendly formulations will agree with every individual. However, by understanding what makes a protein supplement easier on your stomach and intestines, you can narrow your options significantly.

Focus on high purity proteins made from more rapidly digestible sources, with few unnecessary additives, and some built-in digestive support through enzymes or probiotics. This combination in a protein powder helps spare your gut from discomfort and allows you to meet your protein needs through supplementation.