Favorite Products
We created this document to share some of our favorite products. In in you’ll find recommendations for everything from protein bars/powders to massage guns. We would love for you to contribute any of your favorites either by posting the link in your FB group, messaging your coach, or emailing admin@estheravant.com.
Where it makes sense & we’re able, we’re providing links and discount codes. Also make sure to check out our Amazon storefront!
Protein Powders, Shakes, & Bars
Powders
“My personal recommendations for a protein powder are: <140 cals, <2g fat, <5g carbs, >25g protein. Lots of brands fit that criteria but these are my faves.” ~Esther
Ghost (use the link for 20% off your first purchase)
“Delicious flavors like peanut butter cereal milk and Chips Ahoy, plus seasonal ones like white chocolate mocha. I haven’t tried the coffee ice cream flavor bec I don’t do coffee but my husband says it’s the best. Right on the border of the criteria above but still within.” ~Esther
Quest
“My favorite until I discovered Ghost. All the flavors are
good but I’m partial to the salted caramel. The baking mix is useful & versatile, too.” ~Esther
“I have only tried the cinnamon crunch flavor, I really like it! It tastes like cinnamon toast crunch cereal.” ~Emilee
“My favorite brand because it sits well on my stomach, unlike some other protein powders. I like all of the flavors as well, especially the Cookies and Cream one.” -Meg
“I was looking for a delicious coffee-flavored protein powder and someone suggested this to me, it has more of an authentic coffee taste compared to others I’ve tried. The numbers aren’t ideal (160 cals 20g protein per serving) but it’s my favorite protein drink right now so I wanted to share it.” ~Emilee
“I haven’t tried this so I can’t vouch for the taste but this is the best macro profile I’ve seen on a plant-based protein: 6g carbs, 3g fat, 30g protein.” ~Esther
“I like their strawberry lemonade and their vanilla, I add a vanilla scoop to other protein drinks for an extra 9g of protein for 40 cals when I need a little extra to hit my protein goal. It’s also a good addition to fruit smoothies.” ~Emilee
“This is one of my favorite proteins. It blends really well, even in water. It is fluffier than other proteins. It also doesn’t make me gassy which is always a plus. I have only tried the vanilla but I have heard great things about the other flavors as well.” – Anna
Premade Shakes
Fairlife Core Power – 30-42g protein/bottle
“Legit tastes like a milkshake—great as a coffee creamer if you like things like that. I’ve heard that the chocolate one is fantastic warmed up like a hot chocolate. Even my super picky, hates all protein everything 13 year old loves them.” ~Meg
“Vanilla is my #1 flavor, Choc a close 2nd and the -Salted Caramel is good too.” ~Andrea
Orgain – 20g protein/bottle – plant based
Premier – 30g protein/bottle
Quest – 30g protein/bottle
Ghost – 26g protein/bottle
“They taste soooo good. The Chips Ahoy tastes like milk & cookies.” ~Trish
Bars
“My favorite until I discovered Built bars. They’re very chewy and some taste very protein bar-y but Smores flavor is solid, especially if you microwave it for a few seconds or broil it for a few mins. Tastes a lot like a cookie. The flavors with chunks of stuff in them are way better than the ones that are just solid protein bar. I was all about white chocolate raspberry when I was pregnant but haven’t touched one since. Another good flavor is cookies & cream. They do have sugar alcohols so don’t plan to eat more than one per day and pay attention to whether they cause you any GI distress” ~Esther
“My favorite flavors are cookie dough and chocolate brownie, they’re a great grab-and-go protein option. They’re an awesome source of fiber, too!” ~Emilee
“My favorite flavors are cookie dough and oatmeal chocolate chip.” -Maria
“Really easy to find, pretty much anywhere, even in bulk at Sams and Costco.” -Meg
They have a new crispie version that are awesome – love the coconut chocolate one! – Patty
Built (use this link to save 15% on your first order)
“My current fave bar that actually tastes like a candy bar. Like Quest, the flavors vary a ton and coconut almond is worlds above most of the other options. They do have sugar alcohols so don’t plan to eat more than one per day and pay attention to whether they cause you any GI distress” ~Esther
“Big fan of Built bars too–and I may be a weirdo, but I really like their chocolate banana flavor. I like that they give you a good sweet treat without putting too much of a dent in your macro budget”. –Meg
Built Puff Bars
“I am not a fan of how chewy Build Bars are…but this new one is light and fluffy. Tastes just like a dark chocolate covered marshmallow . Soft and yummy! And High in protein.” ~Trish
Lower protein than Quest & Built but plant-based so a decent option if you don’t tolerate dairy.
“I really love built bars but this is a great runner up. The glazed doughnut is a great flavor.” -Anna
Higher Protein Snacks
Enlightened Broad Beans
“These are delicious. One of my favorite high(ish) protein snacks. I’m a big fan of the Sweet Sriracha but it looks like they have a ton of new flavors so will continue to update with reviews. I haven’t loved the sweeter ones (Cocoa Dusted, Sweet Cinnamon) but I don’t have much of a sweet tooth to begin with” ~Esther
Quest Protein Chips
“These have pretty good flavor but not as much substance as “real” chips. They’re crunchy and it’ll take you a while to eat the whole bag so I do like them as a snack, just not as an actual replacement for the real thing.” ~Esther
“I tried these and didn’t like the texture of the chips. Felt powdery in my mouth.” ~Maria
Halo Top Ice Cream (if you email them here they’ll send you 2 coupons for $1 off and you can request them every 6 months. Personally seems like a lot of effort to save $4/year but just wanted to let you know)
“If you tried this side-by-side with a normal ice cream, you’d probably be able to tell the difference but as a stand alone, it’s pretty solid. I’ve mostly tried the dairy-free line because eating too much doesn’t make me feel great but I haven’t noticed them tasting weird or anything like that. The Candy Bar flavor is delish. You might not want to eat the whole pint in a sitting, but you could and it wouldn’t blow your whole calorie budget.” ~Esther
Slate Chocolate Milk
“These are pricey but yummy! They are basically chocolate milk (milk, dark, and espresso flavors) but higher in protein. They taste delicious! I recommend.” ~Maria
Bada Bing Broad Beans
“Crunchy and I ordered the bags that are 100-110 calories per bag so can keep in car or backpack to have easy simple snack. And you can slowly eat them or eat 1 at a time to make them last for a long snack if needed. They come in like 20 different flavors!” ~Jaime
“These are THE BEST. One of my fave snacks. I feel like they really check the crunchy box and you get a lot of trips to mouth AND they’re calorie/protein/fiber friendly!” ~Esther
Kashi GoLean Cinnamon Crisp Cereal
“Sarah found this one and with 14g protein and 10g fiber per serving, it’s about the best cereal option I’ve seen. She says it’s delish!” ~Esther
Catalina Crunch Cereal
“I haven’t tried these but they’re high fiber and decently high in protein.” ~Esther
Roasted ChickPeas – 12g protein/2oz
Flex Popcorners – not the regular ones, 10g/bag, plant based, gluten free
Bone Broth – 10g protein/cup
StarKist Tuna Pouches – 15g/pouch
Tuna Infusions – 20-22g/container
Hard boiled eggs – 12g/2 eggs
Cottage cheese – 23g/cup
Krave Jerky
“I consider myself a jerky snob and this is my favorite brand (specifically the purple bag). It’s not low in sugar so that’s something to keep in mind but it’s a delicious snack that also contributes a chunk of protein. All jerky is pretty pricey but if you can find it on sale, stock up!” ~Esther
Nature Valley Protein Granola
“I get asked for granola recommendations a lot and this has been the winner so far. One thing to look out for when you’re comparing granola labels is the serving size. Often the higher calorie ones will have a smaller serving size to look comparable to others. This one isn’t low-calorie by any means and the protein isn’t really that high, so that’s mostly a marketing ploy but overall, it’s still a better choice than many others.” ~Esther
Arctic Zero Ice Cream
“Disclaimer: I might be the only person in the world who actually likes this. I prefer it to Halo Top even though most people will tell you it tastes like flavored ice water. I don’t have much of a sweet tooth so maybe that’s why but I’ll crush a salted caramel pint from time to time. Good news: no sugar alcohols! Very macro friendly.” ~Esther
“Another Arctic Zero fan. The trick is to soften it up juuuuuuust enough. 30 seconds at 30% power in the microwave does the trick every time. I love the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor. They’re also dairy free for people who are sensitive.” –Meg
IWON Protein Stix
“I haven’t tried these but they came very highly recommended in a FB group I’m in so if you’re looking for a crunchy, on-the-go snack, these have 10g of protein & 5g of fiber per serving.” ~Esther
Premier Protein Cereal
“I haven’t tried this but you guys love this brand of pre-made shakes so it might be worth trying. Should be able to find at Costco. 20g protein per cup!” ~Esther
Flap Jacked Mighty Muffin – 20g protein
Kodiak Cake Frozen Power Cakes & Waffles – 12+g protein
Birch Benders Frozen Protein Waffles – 11g protein/2 waffles
Edamame – 16g/4oz (in shell)
Sargento Light Mozzarella String Cheese – 12g/2
Kite Hill Almond Milk Greek Style Yogurt 11g protein & 2g sugar
Smoked salmon – 10g/2oz
Shrimp cocktail – ~2g/shrimp
Meat & Dairy
“If you take issue with the level of processing of deli meat, this one’s not for you, but it’s a staple for me to have in wraps or on top of salads. It’s also a great snack by itself or with string cheese or veggies. My Go Tos are the oven roasted, mesquite smoked, or honey smoked turkey” ~Esther
Smithfield bacon pork loin
“The bacon does add a good amount of fat to what would otherwise be a pretty lean meat but it’s SO good and you don’t have to do anything but take it out of the package and stick it in the oven.” ~Esther
“I usually buy the 2% because I like thicker yogurt and I think it tastes better than fat-free but you do you. I like this brand because it’s thick. If you like runnier, Chobani fits that bill.” ~Esther
Yola Yogurt Whipped Topping
“This is a GREAT substitute for whipped cream in a can. It’s half the calories and tastes great. I actually like it better than regular whipped cream!” – Maria
Nut Butters
“With a nut butter, I’m looking for no added sugar or oils, really just the nuts and maybe some salt. I prefer all the crunchiness but all these brands have creamy, as well.” ~Esther
Crazy Richard’s – code PBLove for savings but doesn’t beat the $3/jar at WalMart
Nuttzo Nut Butters – code NUTTZOFANATIC gets 15% off
“Word of warning with the Nuttzo. It’s SO good that you might want to eat the entire jar with a spoon. So make sure you’re measuring out your portions” ~Esther
Nutz N More (Vitamin Shoppe too) – has a little added protein and I find that I get more per gram when weighing it out, so 10g of this goes a lot farther than 10g of regular PB, if that makes sense”. -Meg
Kirkland Almond Butter (Costco)
Pasta
Banza
“This is the first non-traditional pasta I tried and honestly I can’t really tell the difference. Might as well get in some extra protein in an easy swap for something you’re probably already eating.” ~Esther
Edamame based (links to a brand I’ve tried but probably cheaper on Amazon)
“I don’t have any loyalty to a particular brand, usually the local store only has one option. I actually prefer this to the chickpea based one because they’re higher protein and lower carb but they’re also usually green so keep that in mind if it’ll be an issue for your kids (or husband/self lol).” ~Esther
Shirataki noodles
“These are a weird thing and I don’t remember how I came to find them but they’re this noodle-like product made out of konjac yam and somehow basically 0-calorie. I use them to add volume to dishes where my husband and son are having pasta but I’d rather have more of the other stuff so I save myself the carbs here and have more veggies or potatoes. They don’t really taste like anything and take on the flavor of whatever sauce you use.” ~Esther
Barilla Protein Plus Pasta
“I don’t eat a lot of pasta, but my kids love this one (they turn their noses up at the other protein ones)” -Meg
Wraps/Bread/Oatmeal
Wraps
Xtreme Wellness Wraps
Tumaro’s Wraps
Mission Low-Carb Wraps
“I’ve listed these in order of my personal preference but I basically use these interchangeably depending on where I’m shopping & what’s available. All are very high in fiber (8-15g) which is awesome if that’s something you struggle with. Keep in mind that due to labeling laws, the companies are able to subtract fiber from the total calories so they’ll throw off your calories at the end of the day but the macros will accurately reflect what you’ve eaten.” ~Esther
Mr Tortilla
“I haven’t tried these but they were highly recommended in a group I’m in. They’re small (8” diameter) but very low in calories (15) so if you like doing street tacos, worth trying!” ~Esther
Egg Life
“I’m not sure how big these are but they’re only 25-35 calories with 5-6g of protein! It looks like you can find them in the refrigerated section of grocery stores or order thru their website or AmazonFresh.” ~Esther
Breads
Dave’s Killer Bagels
“These are a client suggestion and though I haven’t tried them, myself, they look awesome! 13g of protein and 5g of fiber from a bagel?! Amazing! Add an egg or two, bacon, smoked salmon, or whatever other protein source sounds good to bump your breakfast up a bit and enjoy every bit of a food that was probably “off-limits” in a past life!” ~Esther
Sara Lee 45-calorie wheat bread
“These slices are small and soft but if you want some toast or a sandwich without it being a major calorie suck, this is a solid choice. 2 slices has 5g of protein and 6g of fiber, too!” ~Esther
647 Bread
“I love this bread. It’s full size, which is different than other lower calorie breads. It is 40 calories/slice with 7g of fiber and 2 grams of protein.” – Anna
Better Oats Oatmeal
“I use them EVERY single day! Whether it’s a podcast, music, sermon, or audio book I have them in nearly all day! They’re also great for sleep! I have trouble sleeping some and it helps to pop those in and play some white noise.” ~Meg
Veggies
SteamFresh
“I do buy a lot of fresh produce each week but I always have several bags of these in the freezer in case I run short or just want to supplement. The are a ton of options but the ones I buy the most often are the “Mixtures” line.” ~Esther
Green Giant cauliflower rice
“You’ll pay a lot more for these than if you riced your own head of cauliflower but who has time for that? I’m partial to the risotto blend but they’re all good.” ~Esther
Green Giant cauliflower gnocchi
“These are actually a pretty good sub for potato gnocchi which will blow your carb budget in a couple bites.” ~Esther
Sauces/Seasonings/Dressings/Misc
Sabra Hummus
“I usually get the Supremely Spicy or the Roasted Red Pepper but the Dark Chocolate is a nice, mildly sweet treat that goes well with fruit or pretzels.” ~Esther
Moore’s Buffalo sauce
“This is a big family fave. I mostly use it with crockpot chicken but my husband would put it on anything.” ~Esther
Bolthouse Farms salad dressings
“I use dressing pretty sparingly but I want it to have good flavor, unlike those 0-calorie “dressings” that taste like sadness. This line is pretty macro friendly (~25-50 cals/serving as compared to ~100 for many other brands) but actually has flavor.” ~Esther
“My favorite dressing–the Blue Cheese and the Cilantro Avocado ones are pretty flavorful!” –Meg
Love Bolthouse! My favorite is the Salsa Ranch. Add that, and some salsa, to a salad and it’s soooo good! – Patty
“This salsa has ruined all other salsa for me. The Mango Habanero is the perfect balance of spice with a hint of sweet. Just beware, even if you like hot stuff (I do), the ghost pepper and regular habanero options are VERY hot.” ~Esther
“Yeah, yeah. Chemical shit storm, but I like it on my oatmeal or drizzled over my Proyo. But at all costs, avoid any of the savory flavors! The Maple Walnut or the Chocolate ones are really the only ones worth trying” -Meg
“I can’t speak to the other flavors, but the Teriyaki Sauce is really good!” ~Lindsay
Stubb’s BBQ sauce
“This is the best sauce I’ve found that is macro friendly but also tastes good. I usually use the Original or Spicy because they’re 30 cals/serving. Don’t be duped by the reduced sugar one, it actually has more calories/carbs than these two. The different types can vary a ton, up to 60 cals/serving so check labels.” ~Esther
Mrs. Dash seasoning blends
“I have the whole line of these and use them liberally on just about everything. My faves are Spicy, Chipotle, Onion & Herb, Garlic & Herb. They’re all salt-free, too” ~Esther
NuNaturals oat fiber
“This is 0 cals, it’s a great to add extra fiber to your diet and it’s fairly tasteless, I also add this to protein drinks” ~Emilee
Nutritional yeast (I’m not loyal to this brand but it’s probably the most common one you’d find in stores)
“This is another kinda weird one but it’s a deactivated yeast that’s sold in flakes and basically looks like fish food. It has a “cheesy/nutty” flavor that you’d really only think if you hadn’t had those things before. But that said, it makes a good salad topper or mixed into sauces to add a little flavor and thickness. It can also be a sub for cheese if you can’t do dairy. It’s high in both fiber and protein which makes it even more worth trying.” ~Esther
Cacao Nibs
“They’re great sprinkled on a smoothie, Greek yogurt, on top of oatmeal—anywhere that you’d like a chocolatey crunch. 5g goes a long way!” ~Meg
Goya Adobo All-Purpose Seasoning with Pepper
“I love Adobo on everything…eggs, chicken, fish, beef, pork.” ~Hallie
Drinks/Water Flavor Enhancers
Tazo Glazed Lemon Loaf Herbal Tea
“The only tea I’ve found that sort of actually tastes like dessert” -Meg
Harney & Sons Hot Cinnamon Spice Tea
“I don’t like tea but this one was recommended so strongly that I had to try it and it won me over.” ~Esther
Fitz’s Diet Root Beer & Fitz’s Diet Cream Soda
“Favorite party or BBQ drinks.” -Kaci
Hop Water
“I have the plain bottles of hop water and mango flavor (you can tell it’s not a beer, but it’s close enough for me).” – Kaci
“Sparkling water that tastes like a light beer.” – Meg
Crystal Light
“This is a staple in our house. I like mixing the decaf sweet tea and pink lemonade to make Arnold Palmers.” ~Esther
Mio
“The Iced Tea flavor is my favorite. Most of the fruity flavors are awful except for Lemonade and Orange Vanilla.” -Meg
Stur
“I haven’t tried these but they’re sweetened with Stevia which I know some people prefer to other 0-calorie options.” ~Esther
Exercise Equipment
16 piece Whatafit Resistance Bands Set (includes 5 mini-bands, 5 tubing, door anchor, 2 handles, 2 ankle straps, carrying case)
Set of 5 mini-bands
“I’m not particularly loyal to any brand here but you want a set of 4-5 for no more than $10-20. These are really versatile and convenient if you travel and want to pack a little equipment.” ~Esther
Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells (get 2.5% back with Rakuten app)
“I don’t actually have these but they’re the one that I would purchase. Mostly because they most resemble DBs shape-wise, rather than being really bulky and square.” ~Esther
Chirp Wheel
“I absolutely LOVE my Chirp wheels (I have all three sizes and use them all). They help with pain, stiffness, tension, tightness, trigger point release, or even just to counteract poor posting and slumping. I seriously cannot say enough. Game changer for me.” ~Joanne
Theragun Mini
“Amazing for sore muscles….instant relief! I have been using it almost everyday ! The mini does the trick.” ~Trish
Raycon Wireless Ear Buds
“I use them EVERY single day! Whether it’s a podcast, music, sermon, or audio book I have them in nearly all day! They’re also great for sleep! I have trouble sleeping some and it helps to pop those in and play some white noise.” ~Andrea
Exercise Clothes/Shoes
Sneakers & Socks
Reebok Nanos
“I’ve been wearing these for about 8 years for cross training. Reebok has great sales a couple of times each year and if you don’t care about having the most recent type, they’re usually under $100.” ~Esther
No Bull’s
“ I have both the trainers and the rip stop runners and wear them daily.” ~Meg
Inov-8
“Flat and wide toe box – great for strength training.” ~Kathy
Bras & Tops
Target Tank Tops
“They showcase those hard earned shoulders and they’re CHEAP!” ~Meg
Pink Sports Bras
“PINK sports bras are LIFE” ~Amber
Lululemon
~Meg
Sublime Sports Bra
“Kindred bravely has great nursing sports bras!”
Shorts/Pants
Athleta Mesh Race Runner Textured Short
“I’ve been living in these. I’ve got muscular thighs so these are not my first choice if I’m running.” ~Stephanie
Lululemon Fast and Free Bike Shorts
“I LOVE these for running or biking. The pockets are and it’s the precise amount of compression/support needed to feel held in without being too tight.” ~Stephanie
Aerie Biker Shorts
“Aerie has really comfy spandex shorts/pants. I like them bc they’re more of a biker style and cover more” ~Amber
Vuori Joggers
“Love the joggers, I could live in them every day all day! Love their other workout clothes too.” ~Janelle
Fabletics
“Fabletics is another good one when you join their membership. You can get some good deals!” ~Janelle
Fleo
~Meg
Lululemon Speed Up Low Rise
“I wear these shorts exclusively. They’re short but they have a longer version (I just don’t like the way they fit me). They have built in undies which normally I hate (I still wear undies anyway) but I love the way they look and feel, they’re high quality, and have a zipper pocket in the back that I put my rings in when I’m working out.” ~Esther
RBX Leggings
“I like RBX leggings- I usually buy them at TJ Maxx.” ~Kathy
Scales
Food Scale – Oxo Good Grips
“This is the one that I have and it’s served me well. No particular reason I settled on this one, it was just probably on sale at the time. In the $20-30 range is fine.” ~Esther
Bathroom Scale – Fitbit Aria 2 Wifi Smart Scale
“My husband and I both have Fitbit watches so we asked for this scale for Christmas. It automatically syncs your results with the Fitbit app and it knows which user is standing on the scale based on previous weigh-ins. I also really like how it looks.” ~Emilee
Books
Atomic Habits
“Excellent book on how to build and break habits. Would like to make it required reading lol” ~Esther
Chasing Cupcakes
“If I could give you required reading, this and Atomic Habits would be my top picks. I would love for ALL of you to read this to reinforce what we talk about in coaching about how powerful your thoughts are and how you are in control of your results. It’s a quick read and there’s an audio version, too. It’s the perfect thing to play on your commute or during walks.” ~Esther
Roar
“If you’re interested in female physiology, how to eat and train for performance (and not just like a small man), this is the book you need. A lot of it is focused on endurance athletes but much of the info is relevant to recreational exercisers, as well.” ~Esther
Personality Isn’t Permanent
“I used to like personality tests as much as anybody but have noticed that a lot of times, we use the results to justify not changing. We accept the outcome as just who we are but that’s not how it has to be. Our personalities are ever changing and we can become whomever we want.” ~Esther
Golden Coil Planner
“I’m loving my Golden Coil Planner. It’s customizable calendar/ bullet journal/ habit tracker.” ~Kelly