Now muscling its way into the supplement spotlight is clear protein, which is made from whey protein isolate and comes in ready-to-drink bottles or powders that turn water into brightly colored, juice-like beverages.<\/p>\n
TRYING TO EAT MORE PROTEIN? DON’T OVERLOOK THIS SWEET SURPRISE<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Searches for “clear protein” on The Vitamin Shoppe\u2019s website were up 11% in July, according to the company, marking the seventh straight month it has been ranked as a top search term.<\/p>\n Some people prefer clear protein because it\u2019s a lighter, refreshing alternative to creamy shakes. (iStock)<\/p>\n Ready-to-drink brands like Isopure Protein Water, Premier Protein Clear and Ryse already line store shelves, and flavored isolate powders from Alani Nu, Ghost and Transparent Labs offer mix options in lemonade, tropical punch and other fruit-forward varieties.<\/p>\n CUTTING OUT ONE FOOD TYPE COULD NEARLY DOUBLE WEIGHT LOSS, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n “It addresses a gap in the market for consumers who want high protein without the heaviness,” registered dietitian-nutritionist Lauren Manaker recently told Vogue magazine.<\/a> “It\u2019s also visually appealing \u2026 and fits well with the push for lighter, on-the-go health products.”<\/p>\n Whey protein isolate tends to be lower in fat, carbohydrates, calories and lactose compared to concentrate, making it a strong option for those with digestive issues. It also boasts a higher concentration of protein by weight.<\/p>\n CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Yet both isolate and concentrate typically deliver 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving, according to Lena Beal, a cardiovascular dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.<\/p>\n Whey isolate has more protein with less fat, carbs and lactose, while concentrate is creamier and less processed. (iStock)<\/p>\n Both forms are quickly absorbed compared to slower-digesting proteins like casein or plant-based blends, though some experts say isolate offers a slight edge in post-workout absorption<\/a> due to its purity.<\/p>\n “Clear protein isn\u2019t necessarily healthier by default,” Beal told Today.com. “It\u2019s the same protein just in a lighter format.”<\/p>\n For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com\/lifestyle<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n And the product itself isn\u2019t new, she said. Isolate-based clear protein has been used in hospitals for years, especially to help patients meet their nutritional needs<\/a> when food intake is limited.<\/p>\n Despite the trend, experts warn that clear protein often contains added artificial flavorings and sweeteners, since it lacks the fats and sugars that help flavor traditional powders. It can also be more expensive.<\/p>\n Protein shakes can play a big role in recovery and muscle building after a workout. (iStock)<\/p>\n “Until we have more data to prove otherwise, neither is inherently better,” Manaker said. “It\u2019s all about what fits your goals and lifestyle.”<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/woman-clear-protein-shake-workout.jpg\"){kind=spacer}
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