A PCOS Diva's Secret Sauce - Protein Powder - PCOS Diva
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A PCOS Diva’s Secret Sauce – Protein Powder

My PCOS Diva journey began when I picked up  Kathleen DesMaisons, Ph.D.’s book, “Potatoes Not Prozac” years ago.  It was a pivotal “AHA” moment. I was in a state of crisis – my sugar and carbohydrate cravings were spiraling out of control. I wondered why I was in control of so many areas of my life, yet I had no control over sugar and simple carbohydrate cravings. In her book, Kathleen DesMaisons outlines, “7 Steps to Cure your Sugar Dependency.” The first step is to have breakfast with protein every day. I was never a big breakfast person. Most of the time I just had a cup of coffee, and if I did eat something, it was usually a bagel or muffin with coffee- no protein there! Dr. DesMaisons recommended drinking a shake for breakfast for those who didn’t like breakfast in the morning. She provided her recipe for  “George’s Shake” in the book. (She now sells a George’s Shake powder that is soy based – you don’t want to use it – see my post about soy for an explanation.) I started making a variation of this shake and experimented with different protein powders. The added protein in the morning made a huge difference in my energy levels and mood, and I slowly began to gain control over my cravings. Really, it was my first step toward controlling my PCOS naturally.

Over the years, I have tried many different protein powders. I started with soy and then found a soy/whey mix I liked. However, after discovering the downsides of dairy for women with PCOS, I started to question my whey protein choice. Whey protein contains lactose which can causes digestion issues and inflammation. I also discovered that whey is very acidic.

I wanted to find a protein powder that I felt confident using and recommending – something organic, that tastes good, is high in protein and low in carbs and sugar and won’t break the bank. I finally found a product  that I am excited to share with you.

PCOS Diva Power Protein is perfect for women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and 97% pure protein.  PCOS Diva Power Protein gives your favorite smoothies and other recipes a nutritional boost. You will love the smooth and creamy vanilla or chocolate flavors that are easy to digest and optimized to deliver 21 highly concentrated grams of protein per serving. I also offer a Power Vegan Protein in vanilla or chocolate for those who prefer a plant based protein! Added to your morning smoothie, my Power Protein will give you the energy and blood sugar stability you have been looking for.

  • 97% pure protein
  • From hormone-free, antibiotic-free, beef raised in Sweden on pasture with no GMO feed
  • Unique process allows the beef to be hydrolyzed for easier absorption with no beef flavor
  • Contains both complete and collagen proteins
  • No artificial sweeteners
  • None of the bloat you get from whey protein

I searched long and hard for protein powder I could trust to consistently deliver high quality nutrients. I finally found it  with one of the most respected nutraceutical companies in the United States. In fact, they are GMP certified, which means their products are held to the highest quality standards. I am excited to share this windfall with you.

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  1. Do you know if this protein powder is safe to eat while pregnant? (I have PCOS and Hashimoto’s and recently found out I’m PREGNANT!!)

    1. That is great news! I don’t see why it wouldn’t be safe. Good quality protein is important during pregnancy. But when in doubt ask your doctor.

  2. I discovered your website today and I love it! I’m not a breakfast person but I could easily do a protein shake. When I make them I use 1 cup 2% milk, muscle milk vanilla protein powder, frozen mixed berries, half of a banana, handful of spinach leaves and chia seeds. But the more I read about PCOS and dairy… I should remove milk. I’m also going to try the Growing Naturals powder. Do you think my other ingredients make a balanced breakfast though? I’m also going to try switching from coffee to green tea in the morning. Thank you for all this helpful information. You rock!

  3. I love this product! I make my shake in the morning and it keeps me satisfied on my busy day. I recommend it to my clients as well.

  4. Hi Amy,

    Really interesting information. I’ve been using a whey-based protein powder and not getting the results I’d hoped, so maybe lowering dairy will help. Have you done any investigation into pea-based proteins?

    Thanks!

    1. I have looked into them but didn’t find one that tasted all that great. If anyone has suggestions please send them my way!

  5. Amy,
    Was there an expiration for the first time order discount? I just went to place an order and the discount code PCOS20 is not a valid code.

      1. Worked this evening when I signed back on. Didn’t do anything different, so maybe there was a glitch of sorts. Thanks

  6. Hi there! I just discovered your website today and it is GREAT! I just ordered some protein powder from growing naturals and I used your coupon code…thanks so much! Just wondering…do you think this shake can be used as a meal supplement? For example, if I had one of these for breakfast or for a lunch I would only eat 2 other meals, correct? I was also wondering your opinion on greek yogurt (I usually eat Chobani brand) because that is high in protein but now I am not sure if I should be eating that after reading your dairy article…

    1. Yes you can use it to substitute one meal. I would try to do organic plain greek yogurt and sweeten on your own with stevia and fruit. I think a few servings of yogurt a week is okay as long as it is organic. Yogurt is a fermented food and can be very helpful.

  7. I was diagnosed a few months ago and have been struggling to find non diary, whole grain options to fill in the gaps of my diet. (First two weeks on steamed veggies alone just wasn’t cutting it!)
    I came across your website today and just reading you journey … the same questions that are popping up for me, you’ve got covered here. God bless you. … This protein mix has me so excited to make a smoothie … I can’t wait till my order gets here.

  8. This product contains guar gum and gum arabic which can be a problem for those who are soy allergic or sensitive.

  9. “(Full disclosure here: I did NOT accept any money and I am NOT an affiliate of this product – I want to remain impartial)”

    I REALLY appreciate that!!! I’m finding it hard to find good sources to manager my PCOS without being sceptical whenever a brand name appears. Thank you for staying neutral and having our (us PCOS divas) well being in mind 🙂

    1. Thanks Tanian-
      I have been offered big bucks to become affiliates for products but I really don’t feel right taking money for a product that I am suggesting for PCOS – I think it diminishes my credibility.

  10. Hi Amy, Loving your website and I can’t get to bed because I just want to keep reading. Have been looking for a good protein powder and would really like to try this. Just tried the code (even cut and pasted it) and it doesn’t work. Do you think it’s still valid?

    Thanks!

    Deborah

  11. I havent tried this yet but with all the great feedback from your website i am going to try it. I’m married to a true italian so the high protein low carb diet my doc has me on is tough because he loves pasta. so the protein powder maybe an excellent source for me. Also i LOVE cottage cheese and that is a high protein food…..makes me happy.

        1. Andrea- Dreamfields isn’t something that I eat. I have heard from Divas that they love it however. I choose to eat small amounts of gluten-free pasta.

  12. Just discovered this site! I am a single women with pcos and ha dwelt despondent my whole life trying to deal with this syndrome. I have been using a whey protein for years in my breakfasts but have never noticed improvements. I would like to try this powder. It have also heard about pcos women using egg white protein powder as well. What is your opinion on this?

    1. Sabrina-
      I like the idea of a vegan protein powder – I’m not sure I would use egg white (it is a major allergen too)

  13. Dose the Vegan Protein Powder have Soy in it? and the Jump start.. I can not have any kind of Turkey ground beef or tofu at all.. Can not eat pork. so How much can I do with the Jump start life.. I have also found out about 2 month ago, egg Yoke do not LIKE me.. I end up getting Ill.. Just want to know?? I want to get back to feeling like a woman. =0(

    1. Hi Candice-
      There is no soy, pork or beef during Jumpstart week. There are eggs in the jumpstart but you can certainly just use the whites. Hope you’ll join us!

  14. Just got this and I am staying fuller longer and dropped 2lbs, love it! Thanks Amy for sharing the knowledge!!

  15. Thank you for this info. I have always found most protein powders to taste chalking no matter what I mixed them with, I will for sure try this.

    Thanks – love your site!!

  16. Hi Amy, Thank you so much for your amazingly informative website. I am 22 and was recently diagnosed with PCOS and so happy to have found your website! Good to hear you found that vegan protein powder is more beneficial than whey-based powders, because I am vegan. I usually start my day with a fruit/veggie/protein powder smoothie using a vegan protein powder. I haven’t tried the specific powder you mentioned here, but I will soon! I am really interested in your JumpStart Program, but was wondering if it will be an issue that I am vegan? Can the diet plan be augmented to a vegan diet? Do you think it’s healthy to be vegan with PCOS? Thank you again for all your help.

    1. Hi Kelsey-
      Thanks for your kind words. Jumpstart can absolutely be adjusted to fit a Vegan lifestyle. I do believe in some definite guidelines for eating for PCOS but don’t believe in a one size fits all approach to protein for PCOS but I do think everyone needs a balanced amount. I do think that it can be done to be vegan as long as you are eating plenty of legumes, nuts and supplement with protein powder..

  17. Quick question, I’ve heard that pcos can also be caused or aggravated by oxidative stress, (I know there are plenty of other causes) so trying to get your body to produce more glutathione which is the mother of all antioxidants would help reverse insulin resistance. I have been doing research on organic grass fed undenatured whey protein as a source of glutathione precursors (amino acids?). If instead of that I decide to use this vegan protein source could I be guaranteed the same thing? Will this product help boost glutathione levels in my body?

    1. Good question Allison! I used to always use Whey protein powder and switched to vegan a year ago. I love how it makes me feel and don’t think I would ever go back to Whey. You can also take N-acetylcysteine (NAC, curcumin and alpha-lipoic acid as they help with glutathione levels. I would rather get mine from vegetable sources rather than whey. Per serving, asparagus, avocado, asparagus, squash, okra, cauliflower, broccoli, potatoes, spinach, walnuts, garlic, and raw tomatoes have the highest glutathione content.

  18. Over the years I have slowly become a vegetarian for many reasons, but have continued to gain weight. At my latest doctor’s appointment she said that is the worst diet choice for me and that I need to up my protein big time to improve my PCOS.

    Can anyone point me in the right direction for HOW MUCH protein I should be having daily with PCOS.

    I have started doing the protein shake from this site for breakfast, but have no idea how much I should be shooting for.

    1. She is correct, vegetarian is very hard to do with PCOS (although it can be done) I try to shoot for at least 25g at every meal.

  19. Hey Amy,

    I tried the Growing Naturals Rice protein powder (chocolate so far, but I’ve also ordered vanilla) and I like it, but I don’t love it. You mentioned that you taste-tested many other products but the Rice Protein was your favorite. Would you be willing to share the the products that still met your standard (good sources of protein, vegan, gluten free) in case one of those make my taste buds happier?

    Thanks!
    Lindsey

  20. Can you use Almond milk instead of water? Or is Almond milk not recommended for PCOS?

  21. I’m currently trying hemp protein and take it every morning. I’m finding it seems to stabilize my blood sugar and keeps me fuller for longer. Will need to give it time to see the full effects 🙂

  22. Is this protein powder low glycemic? I also have the insulin resistance and have been eating a low glycemic diet.

  23. I know this post is sort of old… 🙂 but recently stumbled upon it. I’ve recently visited a nutritionist that specializes in women with PCOS. I’m currently on a plan that will help me lose the weight I’ve gained. I asked her if I could drink protein shakes and she said no. She said that women with PCOS have a lot of testosterone and would only result in me gaining muscle mass instead of losing weight. Do you know how true this might be?

    1. Honestly, that is the craziest thing I have heard. Women with PCOS need protein to keep blood sugar balanced which in turn will help balance hormones like testosterone. My advice would be to find another nutritionist.

  24. I just wanted to let you know that I came across your site tonight and it was like a breath of fresh air. I was diagnosed with PCOS last October and it has been a struggle to find food alternatives/replacements but this makes complete sense to me!

    Thank you for all of your advice and knowledge- can’t wait to read the rest of your site!

  25. I don’t have PCOS but do struggle a lot with sugar sensitivity. Do you recommend the Potatoes Not Prozac book? And, do you still use and recommend Growing Natural Rice Protein?

    1. I do love Dr. Kathleen Desmaisons. She was very influential in my early stages of my PCOS journey. Yes, I do still use Growing Naturals.

  26. Hi Amy,

    Would you recommend this protein shake vs the vegan shakeology? I currently use vegan chocolate but it has agave and is so expensive. The taste is great though. Just wondering which you prefer health wise and taste wise.

    Thank you!

  27. I was diagnosed with PCOS at 22 and was told by a doctor that if I continued eating bread that I’d be a diabetic by 25 and died by 30. Needless to say, I got a second opinion. I went to a weight-loss clinic that specializes in PCOS and I was told that for my personal health I needed to consume a 1 to 3 ratio of carbohydrates to protein. I needed 180gm of protein daily with only 40-50 carbohydrates.
    I started drinking a lot of protein powder, the clinic recommended Dymatize Elite because there was no added sugar, fructose, salt, or added carbohydrates. After the first 6 months I got feed up with the taste and price. You can only drink chocolate sand for so long before snapping. I tried Six Star protein from Walmart and the flavor wasn’t too bad and it mixed well in hot water. However, the flavor was inconsistent, one tub would taste fine and the next tasted like lard(I do not exaggerate) had been added.
    I was house sitting for a neighbor and I tried some of their protein powder and four glasses later I didn’t care how much it cost I wanted this product. Surprise surprise when it turned out to be Dymatize again but this time it was their ISO 100 Cookies and Cream. It is a little more expensive but there are good deals on
    http://www.allstarhealth.com
    https://www.fitrx.com

    I was doing so well for the first year I stayed away from carbohydrates and drank my protein but I broke down and have gained back half of what I lost last year.
    Thank you for starting this site, it’s nice to know there are others facing this as well.

  28. I was diagnosed with PCOS at 22 and was told by a doctor that if I continued eating bread that I’d be a diabetic by 25 and died by 30. Needless to say, I got a second opinion. I went to a weight-loss clinic that specializes in PCOS and I was told that for my personal health I needed to consume a 1 to 3 ratio of carbohydrates to protein. I needed 180gm of protein daily with only 40-50 carbohydrates.
    I started drinking a lot of protein powder, the clinic recommended Dymatize Elite because there was no added sugar, fructose, salt, or added carbohydrates. After the first 6 months I got feed up with the taste and price. You can only drink chocolate sand for so long before snapping. I tried Six Star protein from Walmart and the flavor wasn’t too bad and it mixed well in hot water. However, the flavor was inconsistent, one tub would taste fine and the next tasted like lard(I do not exaggerate) had been added.
    I was house sitting for a neighbor and I tried some of their protein powder and four glasses later I didn’t care how much it cost I wanted this product. Surprise surprise when it turned out to be Dymatize again but this time it was their ISO 100 Cookies and Cream. It is a little more expensive but there are good deals on
    http://www.allstarhealth.com
    https://www.fitrx.com

    I was doing so well for the first year I stayed away from carbohydrates and drank my protein but I broke down and have gained back half of what I lost last year.
    Thank you for starting this site, it’s nice to know there are others facing this as well.

  29. My nutritionist at the clinic mentioned that with PCOS it is very important to take a B-12 supplement because our bodies use a great deal more than other people need. Also, the higher protein diet can sometimes prevent your body from absorbing calcium and biotin so I’m also taking a supplement for both as well as the B-12. I thought I’d mention this because she said most people aren’t told about this when they switch to a high protein diet.

  30. Hi, I am a dancer and I am borderline PCOS. I am always feeling tired now-a-days so starting protein shakes but sort of confuse with how I should build them in my routine. Help, please! Should I have them before my workout and after? Or do like 2 protein shakes a day since I might have my dance session in the morn thru the day but like workout/yoga in the evening. I am not sure how to keep my energy up but also try to get my periods regular/ovulate. I am also going to incorporate inositol in my diet. Any advice is appreciated.

    1. I would keep it to one protein shake in the morning for breakfast and see how it makes your body feel.

  31. what do you think of egg protein from jay robb? and which proteins on the market are the best sources for pcos? Thanks:)

    1. I think many women are intolerant to eggs and it can add to inflammation. I obviously like my Power Protein which is a beef collagen based protein. I also like pea as a vegan source.

  32. I was diagnosis with pcos 5yrs. ago and struggle with it everyday. I dont know where to start to stop the symptons. Also when you used kale in your smoothie can that be substituted with other greens I have to be careful using kale
    cause I had kidney stones before.

    1. You are not alone. Start with baby steps and you will see improvement. First, read my free PCOS 101 Guide (http://pcosdiva.designbyansley.com/programs/pcos-101/) to help you understand what is happening to your body and why. Then, start making little lifestyle and diet changes. For most women with PCOS, gluten and dairy are problematic and make your symptoms worse. If you would like help, I have a 7 Day Jumpstart program beginning in September that will walk you through the steps to healing. http://pcosdiva.designbyansley.com/programs/online-programs/

  33. I’m a known pcos since 7-8 yrs , evN after being a doctor , I actually HV lost hopes about fertility and getting out from it …
    Me , Being fat since childhood..
    I’m sick of this really and I HV a knee lig prblm to go for jogging / walking…
    I strtd wid diet and crunches …
    Will I be able to get over it ? How much time will it take ?

  34. Hi Amy – I am having a really hard time getting this powder to dissolve, it is always so clumpy. I have tried mixing it with warm water, then blending it with other, colder things, but it still is clumping, which is gross. I have used it for a week and cannot imagine going another 20 days like this.Thank you!

    1. What type of blender are you using? I make my smoothies with 1 cup non-dairy milk, frozen fruit and a scoop of powder and my Power Greens and Fiber. I blend this up in my Vitamix and it is always creamy and almost whipped. If you are using a Ninja type blender with a spiral blade, it may not mix well.

      1. Thank you for the quick response! I am using a Magic Bullet. I will try a different blender tomorrow. I try to dissolve the powder first in the bottom, then add half a frozen banana, tablespoon of almond butter, ice, spinach and a splash of almond or cashew milk. I really like the powder – it tastes good, does not have any artificial taste and keeps me fuller longer.

  35. Hi Amy!

    I hope you see this post since I know you did this a while ago. But is your protein powder safe for use during pregnancy?

  36. Hi Amy,

    Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge. I am wondering about the stevia in this protein powder. I have read that stevia can interfere with fertility (http://detoxinista.com/2016/03/why-i-stopped-using-stevia/) and also via Fiona McCulloch (I found your site through hers). Do you know what the real deal with stevia is? Is there a difference depending on how it’s processed?