I started losing weight after my second child—and while I was happy to see the scale move, I noticed something else too. My arms look flabby. My face sagged a bit more. I was tired all the time. I realized I wasn’t just losing fat—I was losing muscle.
Turns out, that’s extremely common—especially for women over 30. Whether it’s due to age, stress, hormones, or medications like Ozempic, most women don’t get nearly enough protein to maintain muscle, strength, and healthy skin while losing weight.
So I went down the rabbit hole—talked to a dietitian, tested dozens of products, and compared ingredients. Here are the 5 best protein options I found for women who want to stay lean, strong, and energized (without the bloat or mess).
1. EASY Protein Collagen Shots
EASY Protein completely changed how I feel about protein. It’s a 1.5 oz liquid shot with 16g of complete collagen protein (with added tryptophan so it actually builds muscle). There’s zero sugar, no dairy, no whey—and it digests super easily, even on an empty stomach.
Unlike powders that left me bloated or nauseous, EASY is pre-digested (nano-hydrolyzed) so it absorbs quickly and doesn’t mess with my stomach. I’ve even started taking it first thing in the morning or right after workouts. I noticed a difference in my energy, skin, and strength within two weeks.
There are hundreds of great reviews from other women—especially those using Ozempic or trying to avoid “Ozempic face.” It helps maintain muscle, collagen, and keeps you looking toned, not tired.
Oh—and I love that there’s no shaker bottle, no cleanup, no weird texture. Just grab, sip, done.
EDIT: EASY is offering readers 15% off and FREE shipping if they order 2 boxes or more.
2. Momentous Essential Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
Momentous is what I’d call the luxury sports car of protein powders. It’s NSF-certified for sport, made from grass-fed whey isolate from Ireland, and developed with input from professional trainers and performance coaches. It’s clean, clinically formulated, and comes in sleek minimalist packaging.
Here’s the catch: it’s $70 for a tub that lasts about two weeks.
We loved the quality—but like most whey proteins, it caused bloating for some of us, especially when losing weight, when digestion can be more sensitive. And while the flavor was great, the daily cleanup and prep made it less convenient than a shot like EASY.
Still, if you want a high-end option and don’t mind the price (or the scoop-and-shake routine), this one delivers.
3. Orgain Clean Protein Shake
We liked that Orgain uses a mix of milk protein and whey for a creamy, smooth texture. It tastes great and is ready-to-drink like EASY, but some women (myself included) find that whey causes bloating or digestive discomfort, especially during weight loss.
If your stomach handles whey well, this is a good grab-and-go option.
4. Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein
We love that Garden of Life is vegan, organic, and clean—but many plant proteins (including this one) can be grainy, earthy-tasting, and a bit harder to digest. It’s also low in certain amino acids unless you combine it with other foods.
Still, for those avoiding animal products, this is a quality plant-based choice.
5. OWYN Protein Shakes
OWYN makes a solid plant-based shake with pea, pumpkin, and flax protein. It’s allergen-friendly, shelf-stable, and tastes better than most vegan shakes. The downside? It’s a bit higher in carbs and sugars, and some people reported a chalky aftertaste.
If you’re looking for a gentle vegan option with broad availability, OWYN is worth a try.
Bottom Line: What Actually Works?
Losing weight shouldn’t mean losing muscle, energy, or that healthy glow. But for many women—especially over 30 or on meds like Ozempic—that’s exactly what happens without enough high-quality protein.
That’s why we recommend EASY Protein Shots. They’re clean, bloat-free, and designed to help you stay toned, energized, and strong (without the hassle of powders or shakes).
With complete collagen protein, fast absorption, and zero sugar or dairy—it’s our #1 pick for a reason.
Click here to learn more about EASY »
Please note: My tests were not scientific and everyone’s body is different. Always talk to your doctor or nutritionist about your specific protein needs.
