The Best Protein Shakes to Help You Crush Your Health and Fitness Goals

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With plenty of options on the market, choosing the right protein shake can be a challenge. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the best protein shakes.

Our list of featured products includes both ready-to-drink shakes and protein powders that you can shake or mix yourself. We've also made sure to include notes from customer reviews as well as my insights as a certified sports nutrition coach.

Whether you have specific dietary restrictions, prefer a plant-based protein drink or want something that packs in a ton of delicious flavor, we will help you find a protein shake to meet your needs. Here are our top picks for the best protein shakes to help you accomplish your personal health and fitness goals.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best Protein Shakes:

• Best Overall Protein Shake: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
• Best Low Carb Protein Shake: XWerks Grow
• Best Whey Protein Shake: Legion Athletics Whey+
• Best Protein Shake for Weight Loss: KOS Organic Plant Based Protein Powder
• Best Personalized Protein Shake: Gainful
• Best Protein Shake With Calcium: Orgain Clean Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shake With Limited Ingredients: Kaged Plantein
• Best Vegan Protein Shake: OWYN Plant Based Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shake for Women: Ripple Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shake for Muscle Gain: Fairlife Core Power Elite Protein Shake
• Best Tasting Protein Shake: Premier Protein Shake
• Best Protein Shake for Diabetes: Kate Farms Glucose Support Shake
• Best Protein Shake with Prebiotics: Iconic Protein Shake

Best Overall Protein Shake: Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein per serving: 28 grams
• Protein source: Grass-fed whey isolate
• Form: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia extract
• Nutrition facts: 0 grams of sugar, 0.5 grams of fat, less than 1 gram of carbs, 0 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein is a naturally-fed hormone-free protein powder sourced from grass-fed American cows. This formula is soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO and free from sugars, artificial colors and artificial preservatives.

In each 32-gram scoop, Transparent Labs delivers 28 grams of protein—a complete amino acid profile with one of the highest protein-by-weight ratios on the market yet.

At the moment, Transparent Labs offers French Vanilla and Milk Chocolate flavors, and reviews are generally positive. One reviewer on the website says “I have been trying different low-carb protein powders for at least a decade now. This is easily the best tasting formula I've ever had, which certainly reflects the quality of the ingredient.”

Essential Protein is $99.99 for a one-time purchase, or $89.99 if you sign up for their subscription option. 

Check out our Transparent Labs Whey Isolate review for more information on this 100% grass-fed whey protein. 

What we love:

• Nutrition label transparency makes it easy to see what you're ingesting
• Grass-fed protein powder with a complete amino acid profile
• Certificate of Analysis on the website indicates that the product is 93 percent protein
• Reviewers rave about its taste and texture

What to consider:

• Premium price point

Best Low-Carb Protein Shake: XWerks Grow

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 110
• Protein per serving: 23 or 25 grams, depending on flavor
• Protein source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
• Type: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia
• Nutrition facts: 1-2 grams of carbs (depending on flavor), 0 grams of sugar, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of fiber

Why I picked it:

With XWerks Grow, you can make your own protein drink that's high on protein and very low on carbs. Depending on which flavor you choose, each serving contains only 1 gram or 2 grams of carbs while delivering 23 grams or 25 grams of protein. The flavors with 1 gram of carbs and 25 grams of protein are Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry, while Peanut Butter has 2 grams of carbs and 23 grams of protein.

The key to the low carb content in XWerks protein powder is the ultra-filtered whey, which has been processed to remove excess carbohydrates such as lactose and fat. The whey itself comes from grass-fed cows raised in New Zealand pastures.

Also, many online reviewers consider XWerks Grow the best-tasting protein powder they've ever tried. They also give it high marks for being easy to mix.

For an in-depth look at this protein powder, check out our XWerks Grow review.

What we love:

• Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry flavors have 1 gram of carbs per serving
• 100 percent whey protein isolate from grass-fed cows
• Good taste and mixability

What to consider:

• Peanut Butter flavor has 2 grams of carbs per serving
• Powder mix, rather than ready-to-drink

Best Whey Protein Shake: Legion Athletics Whey +

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein per serving: 22 grams
• Protein source: Whey protein isolate
• Type: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia, Ovasweet 
• Nutrition facts: 1 gram of sugar, 0 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber

Why I picked it:

In the world of whey protein, products that have the purest ingredients usually source their whey from grass-fed cows and are third-party tested. Legion Athletics Whey+ checks both of those boxes. Free of hormones and antibiotics, this product contains 22 grams of protein per serving, which can fuel muscle growth and athletic performance.

Legion products are third-party tested by Labdoor, an independent certification agency. You can access Labdoor's latest findings on Whey+ right on Legion's website, which shows the brand's commitment to transparency.

Legion Whey+ is ideal for those looking to consume a high level of protein with a low amount of fat and carbohydrates. Whey+ is currently available in 15 flavors: Dutch Chocolate, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel, Cinnamon Cereal, Birthday Cake, Choclate Hazelnut, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, French Vanilla, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino and Strawberry Banana, and Legion offers an Unflavored option as well.

What we love:

• Whey isolate is easier to digest for those who have trouble digesting dairy
• Cows are free of hormones and antibiotics and grass-fed
• Third-party analysis available on Legion's website

What to consider:

• Not a great option for those looking to bulk up due to low carbohydrates and fats

Best for Protein Shake for Weight Loss: KOS Organic Plant Based Protein Powder

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 160
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Protein source: Organic pea protein, organic flax seeds, organic quinoa, organic pumpkin seeds and organic chia seeds
• Type: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia extract
• Nutrition facts: 2 grams of added sugar, 6 grams of fat, 9 grams of carbs, 3 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

KOS Organic is a vegan protein powder that tastes great and is supported by a blend of plant-based protein sources including peas, flax and chia seeds, pumpkin seeds and quinoa. It's our pick for the best protein shake for weight loss, thanks to its ingredient list.

This ingredient list ensures each scoop of KOS organic is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids per serving. KOS also includes digestive enzymes, a blend of organic fruits and veggies and even some added vitamins and minerals.

As far as taste, KOS comes in a wide variety of flavors. The flavors are naturally sweetened so they contain no erythritol or other sugar alcohols. According to customer reviews, the chocolate and vanilla flavors are both delicious, especially when compared to other dairy-free plant-based protein shakes on the market.

Related Post: The Best Protein Powders for Weight Loss

What we love:

• USDA-certified organic ingredients
• Completely vegan protein powder that is dairy and lactose-free
• Contains organic fruit and veggie blend, digestive enzyme blend and KOS vitamins and minerals blend

What to consider:

• Might not be suitable for customers with allergies since it contains tree nuts (coconut)
• Slightly higher calories than other protein powder supplements

Best Personalized Protein Shake: Gainful

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: Varies slightly based on the formulation
• Protein per serving: Varies between 19 to 27 grams of protein depending on your protein powder selection
• Protein source: Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, plant-based protein (organic pea, organic brown rice, organic oat)
• Type: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia extract or monk fruit extract
• Nutrition facts: Varies based on your personalized formulation

Why I picked it:

Gainful offers a subscription-based service in which a protein powder is individually customized to fit your dietary needs. They have whey, keto and plant-based formulations available. No matter the source of protein you choose, Gainful protein powder contains all nine essential amino acids and anywhere from 19 to 27 grams of protein per serving. The customized powders never contain any gluten, soy, fillers, artificial sweeteners, colors or flavors.

What is unique about this protein is that it actually comes unflavored, and you use various flavor packets to enhance your shake. Gainful offers nine different flavor packets and I have personally tried the Chocolate, Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter and the Sea Salt Caramel. They were all delicious and added a substantial amount of flavor; the Sea Salt Caramel and Chocolate Peanut Butter were my personal favorites. This variety is great for individuals who get tired of drinking the same flavored protein shake over and over again.

Gainful definitely isn’t the cheapest supplement brand on the market, but it does offer high-quality ingredients and customized supplement blends. The Gainful subscription also grants access to individual sessions with a registered dietician. This is a particularly helpful service if you have personal weight loss goals.

What we love:

• Fully customizable protein powder options to align with your dietary preferences
• Multiple flavor options available
• Subscription to Gainful grants access to services from a registered dietitian

What to consider:

• Significant cost per serving of protein
• Subscription based service only
  

Best Protein Shake With Calcium: Orgain Clean Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Protein source: Whey protein
• Type: Ready-to-drink protein shake
• Sweetener: Monk fruit extract, stevia extract
• Nutrition facts: 3 grams of sugar, 2 grams of fat, 11 grams of carbs, 2 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

The Orgain 20g Clean Protein Shake is the perfect grab-and-go fuel when you’re running from the gym to your first meeting. Available in creamy chocolate fudge and vanilla bean, these grass-fed protein shakes are an easy way to get more protein and calcium in your daily diet. Calcium is important for bone strength as you work toward your fitness goals and to support bone health in old age. This protein shake contains 600 milligrams of calcium, nearly half of the recommended daily intake, which is great because many Americans don’t get enough calcium in their diets.

Reviewers on Orgain’s site love the taste and use this product as a daily snack or part of their post-workout routine. Tanya M. says, “Great recovery drink for my sons who are in track or after my husband and I do a workout. I also use it to keep my macros in check. We love that we can grab and go with our busy schedule. Tastes great!”

What we love:

• Gluten-free, Non-GMO, made without soy
• Pre-made shake is easy to grab and go
• 600 milligrams of calcium per serving

What to consider:

• Not for vegetarians or those who are sensitive to lactose

Best Protein Shake With Limited Ingredients: Kaged Plantein

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 160 calories
• Protein per serving: 25 grams
• Protein source: Pea protein
• Type: Powder
• Sweetener: Stevia and sucralose
• Nutrition facts: 1 gram of sugar, 4 grams of fat, 5 grams of carbs, 2 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

Kaged Plantein is a vegan protein shake that’s made with just five ingredients: pea protein isolate, natural flavors, organic quinoa, medium chain triglyceride powder (coconut oil, acacia), stevia and sucralose. Since it’s a protein powder, it needs to be mixed with water or milk in a shaker bottle, unlike many of the pre-mixed protein shakes on this list.

Plantein delivers 25 grams of protein and 150 calories per serving, and is low-sugar, low fat and low-carb. Kaged uses its Ingredient Optimized Technology on this shake, which it says increases the surface area of proteins, enhancing amino acid absorption and utilization. According to Kaged, pea protein treated with Ingredient Optimized Technology has an amino acid bioavailability that’s comparable to whey protein.

Plantein comes in three flavors designed to satisfy your sweet tooth: Banana Bread, Cinnamon Roll and Peanut Butter Cookie. Reviewers like that it doesn’t have the gritty texture other plant-based protein shakes can have. Timothy S. from the Kaged website says, “I love the taste and how well it mixes. It’s my go to daily protein supplement.”

What we love:

• Vegan protein shake made with pea protein, which is a complete protein source (i.e. containing all nine essential amino acids)
• Made with only five ingredients (pea protein isolate, natural flavors, organic quinoa, MCT powder, steviol glycosides and sucralose)
• Free of soy, nuts and gluten

What to consider:

• Not good for those who don't digest stevia or sucralose well
• Needs to be mixed with liquid before consuming

Best Vegan Protein Shake: Owyn Plant Based Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 180
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Protein source: Blend of pea protein and organic pumpkin seed protein
• Type: Shake
• Sweetener: Organic cane sugar, monk fruit extract
• Nutrition facts: 4 grams of sugar, 7 grams of fat, 8 grams of carbs, 3 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

It's still possible to build tons of muscle as a vegetarian or vegan, despite what you may have heard. Vegan protein supplements like Owyn Plant Based Protein Shakes can help when paired with strength training or other muscle-building exercises.

Owyn protein shakes are made with a high-quality blend of pea protein and organic pumpkin seed protein that most reviewers say digests well and does not have the gritty taste of many plant proteins. Each Owyn shake provides 20 grams of protein with no artificial ingredients or flavors. Pea protein is an important ingredient in vegan protein shakes because it contains all nine essential amino acids. Pumpkin seed protein is also a well-balanced protein source.

Owyn comes in four flavors: Cookies and Creamless, Dark Chocolate, Smooth Vanilla and a three-variety pack that includes a Cold Brew Coffee flavor.

What we love:

• Transparent ingredient label
• Features one of the best plant protein sources, pea protein
• Provides complete amino acid profile
• Major allergen-free

What to consider:

• Each serving contains 4 grams of sugar

Best Protein Shake for Women: Ripple Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 200
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Protein source: Pea protein
• Type: Ready-to-drink protein shake
• Sweetener: Cane sugar
• Nutrition facts: 9 grams of sugar, 7 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbs, 1 gram of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

There aren’t really any protein shakes that are better for women than men, and any major differences are usually just marketing. With that said, Ripple Protein Shakes are a great option for women (and men) who want a shelf-stable, ready-to-drink vegan protein shake. Each Ripple shake provides 20 grams of protein per serving from pea protein. For an extra boost, you can opt for the Coffee flavor, which has 94 milligrams of caffeine (almost equivalent to one cup of coffee).

Ripple shakes are free of major allergens like gluten, soy, nuts and lactose. Because the protein source is pea protein, it contains all nine essential amino acids per serving. Three flavors are available—Chocolate, Vanilla and Coffee—and Amazon reviewers like that they don't have the gritty texture other protein shakes can have.

One reviewer named Debra says, “I’ve tried a million vegan protein shakes. The powder ones always taste chalky, have a bad aftertaste or something majorly wrong that I can’t drink them. This is the only one that I can drink every day and not have to force it down. Tastes great! Definitely has a different flavor to it but it’s good.”

What we love:

• Completely vegan protein shake that’s free of gluten, soy, nuts and lactose
• Comes with a caffeinated option
• Shelf-stable and ready-to-drink

What to consider:

• Slightly higher calories than other protein powder supplements (200 calories per serving)
• Each bottle contains 9 grams of sugar

Best Protein Shake for Muscle Gain: Fairlife Core Power Elite

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 230
• Protein per serving: 42 grams
• Protein source: Filtered low-fat grade-A milk
• Type: Shake
• Sweetener: Stevia leaf extract, sucralose, monk fruit juice
• Nutrition facts: 7 grams of sugar, 3.5 grams of fat, 8 grams of carbs, 0 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

Fairlife Core Power Elite is a heavier protein shake formula that’s a great option for hard-gainers seeking some serious muscle gain. Each shake has 230 calories with 42 grams of protein—about twice as much protein as most other protein shakes.

Core Power Elite is also a good source of micronutrients with 50 percent daily value (DV) vitamin D, 80 percent DV calcium and 25 percent DV vitamin A. This shake also contains essential electrolytes sodium and potassium to help you stay hydrated during intense gym sessions.

The flavor options are somewhat limited: Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry. However, reviewers rave about the taste. One Amazon reviewer, Billie Charlie even says, ”These taste stupid good. I don’t know how they did it but these taste fantastic.”

Check out our Fairlife Protein Shakes review for more information about all the brand's shakes.

What we love:

• High protein content
• Transparent ingredient label
• Zero added sugars and artificial preservatives

What to consider:

• Not ideal for individuals searching for a low-calorie shake option

Best Tasting Protein Shake: Premier Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 160
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Protein source: Milk protein concentrate
• Type: Shake
• Sweetener: Sucralose
• Nutrition facts: 1 gram of sugar, 3 grams of fat, 5 grams of carbs, 3 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

Premier Protein shakes are our pick for the best tasting protein shakes because the protein is sourced from smooth, creamy milk protein concentrate, and there are 12 flavors to choose from (plus occasional seasonal flavors, like Pumpkin Spice).

Premier Protein flavors include Cafe Latte, Cake Batter Delight, Caramel, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Cookies & Cream, Peaches & Cream, Root Beer Float, Strawberries & Cream and Vanilla.

Each 11.5-ounce bottle is packed with 30 grams of protein and 25-50 percent DV of 22 micronutrients, including vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, B12, magnesium and calcium.

Because it’s a ready-to-drink shake, you can put Premier Protein in your bag to help curb hunger, or mix it with a beverage for a tasty alternative to fillers like coffee creamer. One reviewer on the Premier Protein website named Hannah K. says, “I use the Caramel flavor as creamer in my coffee every morning and it’s both filling and delicious!”

Related Post: The Best Tasting Protein Powders to Help You Achieve Your Fitness Goals

What we love:

• Large selection of dessert-inspired flavors
• Extensive micronutrient profile—between 25 and 50 percent DV of 22 vitamins and minerals
• Ready-to-drink form means no shaker bottle or blender are needed

What to consider:

• Contains soybean oil
• Includes artificial flavors

Best Protein Shake for Diabetics: Kate Farms Glucose Support 1.2 Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 300
• Protein per serving: 16 grams
• Protein source: Pea protein
• Type: Ready-to-drink shake
• Sweetener: Agave syrup
• Nutrition facts: 9 grams of sugar, 15 grams of fat, 26 grams of carbs, 6 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

Kate Farms makes nutritious shakes for adults, kids and those with special medical needs. Their shakes are made with organic yellow pea protein isolate to accommodate those with dairy allergies and intolerances, and their Glucose Support shake is formulated specifically for those with diabetes.

This shake is designed to help manage blood sugar, and provides a balanced macronutrient profile, including 16 grams of protein, 26 grams of carbohydrates and 15 grams of fat. It also provides 6 grams of dietary fiber and contains 9 grams of sugar from agave syrup—all totaling 300 calories per 8.45-ounce serving.

Additionally, it’s certified USDA Organic, certified gluten-free and Non-GMO Project Verified. Only one flavor is available, Vanilla, and the majority of reviewers on the Kate Farms website report enjoying the taste.

The Glucose Support shake is not budget-friendly, costing $51 for a 12-count case ($4.25 per serving), but subscribers can save 10%, and the extra cost may be worthwhile for those with special dietary needs due to diabetes.

Related Post: The Best Protein Powders for Diabetics

What we love:

• A low glycemic index food
• Made without dairy for easy digestion
• Designed specifically for those with diabetes
• USDA certified organic, certified gluten-free, Non-GMO Project verified

What to consider:

• Not a low calorie, low sugar or low carb protein shake
• Only available in Vanilla flavor

Best Protein Shake with Prebiotics: Iconic Protein Shake

Key features and specs:

• Calories per serving: 140
• Protein per serving: 20 grams
• Protein source: Grass-fed milk protein isolate
• Type: Ready-to-drink shake
• Sweetener: Monk fruit extract powder, stevia leaf extract
• Nutrition facts: 0 grams of sugar, 3 grams of fat, 8 grams of carbs, 4 grams of dietary fiber

Why I picked it:

For those who can't tolerate whey or are vegetarians or vegans, plant-based proteins are a great alternative. Made with grass-fed milk protein isolate, Iconic Protein shakes deliver 20 grams of protein per serving with dessert-inspired flavors like Chocolate Truffle, Vanilla and Cafe Latte.

Despite the names of the flavors, Icon Protein shakes are sweetened with stevia leaf extract and monk fruit extract, both of which are natural alternatives to high-fructose corn syrup, sugar and sucralose with minimal to no impact on your blood sugar.

Iconic shakes also contain prebiotics in the form of chicory root fiber. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that the good bacteria in your gut feeds on. That means Iconic may help your body maintain a healthy gut and smooth digestive process.

What we love:

• 20 grams of protein per serving
• Contains prebiotics
• Reviewers rave about its flavor

What to consider:

• Some may not like the flavor of stevia

How to Choose the Best Protein Shake for You

When picking your ideal protein drink, think about these essential factors:

Ready-to-drink vs. powder mix

Do you want a premade protein drink or do you prefer making your own shake with protein powder using a mixer or cup shaker? The ready-to-drink option has the advantage of being far more convenient. On the other hand, protein powders tend to have higher protein content. They also make it easier to blend in your own ingredients for a customized protein drink.

Protein sources

Another decision is whether you want animal or plant protein to accommodate your personal dietary preferences. The good news is that you can find either option with ready-to-drink protein shakes, as well as whey protein (milk protein) powders and plant-based protein powders.

Macronutrients and calories

Consider each product's calorie and macronutrient profile to make sure it aligns with your diet plan, such as an organic protein shake or a protein shake for weight loss. The best premade protein shakes and protein powders are likely to fit within your dietary preferences and also offer other benefits such as added calcium.

Quality of ingredients

Look at whether the premade protein shake or protein powder uses artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.

Flavors

Taste is more important than you might think. Even if the product is high quality, if it tastes horrible you aren’t going to use it.

Price comparison

There are plenty of options available so that you can find one that fits with both your budget and your taste buds.

How We Chose the Best Protein Shakes

In order to find the best protein shakes we looked at a number of different factors including the overall quality of ingredients, online customer reviews, the price point and our own first-hand experience using these products.

There are so many different protein supplements that claim to be the best in terms of taste, muscle gain and performance, we wanted to see which companies delivered on their promises. Not only should your protein shake taste great, but it should also provide your body with the high-quality nutrients it needs. Learn more about our product review process.

Protein Shake Ingredients

Many of the proteins on this list are in powder form. Protein powder is more versatile than premade protein drinks and allows you to make your own healthy protein shakes. To fuel up post-workout, try blending protein powder, ice, low-fat chocolate milk, a banana and peanut butter for a mix of healthy fats, potassium and protein. 

Add your favorite berries for added antioxidants, dates for fiber and added sweetness. You can blend protein with milk or water, or to make a non-dairy protein shake, try adding your favorite nut milk.

Benefits of Protein Shakes

The primary health benefits associated with protein shakes are that they are a convenient and effective way to increase your daily protein intake. We know protein is important because it has a number of important roles in the body ranging from muscle building and muscle recovery to supporting weight loss and overall health and wellness. Therefore, shakes are not only a perfect option for some post-workout recovery, but they also can be fortified with additional ingredients like oats, fruits and vegetables to create nutritious and well-rounded meals.

Another added benefit is that protein is the most satiating macronutrient which means that it will help you feel full for a longer period of time and help you consume fewer calories throughout the day. These benefits, especially when used in conjunction with a well-designed resistance training protocol will have you well on your way to reaching your health and fitness goals.

Who Might Not Benefit from Protein Shakes

It is important to remember the definition of a supplement as something that enhances your diet. For example, if you eat a plant-based diet and have trouble getting enough protein from food alone, then a daily protein shake might prove beneficial. The same could be said for a bodybuilder or athlete who has increased protein demands due to their training and activity levels. In this case they might utilize a protein shake to supplement their diet. However, if you aren’t very active, or have a diet high in meat, eggs and dairy then you are likely getting enough protein from your food alone and won’t need the added protein from a shake.

Protein Shake FAQs

Are protein shakes actually good for you?

Yes, if used correctly, protein shakes can definitely be beneficial for you. These shakes are just an additional source of protein and calories for your body. They can be helpful for people who struggle to consume enough protein through their diet alone or have athletic performance or bodybuilding aspirations. These shakes can also be beneficial for individuals who have weight loss goals and are looking for a low-calorie, high protein snack to supplement their meals. Protein shakes are no longer the nasty chalky tasting supplements of the past. In fact, when blended together with some milk and ice, most flavors transform into delicious milkshakes that can satisfy almost any sweet-tooth.

How many protein shakes can I drink per day?

In most cases, you probably want to limit your maximum protein shake consumption to two shakes per day. While these shakes might be convenient, they usually don’t provide the additional calories and nutrients from whole food sources that your body needs. Consuming too many shakes may also cause unwanted side effects such as nausea, stomach pain and digestive issues, especially if you are new to drinking these shakes. Remember, protein shakes should only be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and not as a complete replacement for whole foods.

Related Post: Drinking Protein Shakes Before Bed for Muscle Recovery and Growth 

How much protein do I need per day?

The World Health Organization advises a protein intake of 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight (0.36 grams per pound of body weight). This protein intake is enough to maintain the muscle mass of a relatively sedentary person, but it is most definitely not enough to support or maximize muscle growth. The actual amount of protein someone needs depends on a number of different factors including age, weight, activity levels and fitness goals. 

For some recommendations regarding how much protein to consume on a muscle building, fat loss or body recomposition program, refer to our Best Protein Powders article.

Do doctors recommend protein shakes?

It is always smart to consult with a doctor before starting any new dietary supplement, including protein shakes. A doctor, especially a registered dietitian, will be able to provide recommendations and advice on the type of protein supplement that would work best for you. This is especially true for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or who are taking any medications. The doctor or dietitian will be able to help identify which protein shake supplement might be the best for your specific needs and goals.

Can you drink protein shakes without working out?

Yes, protein shakes are meant for anyone that isn’t getting enough protein from their diet alone. This is because protein is an essential nutrient that plays many different roles in the body and is not just for people looking to build muscle. So, whether you work out or not, if you are failing to consume enough protein then these shakes can be a great resource.

Can protein shakes replace meals?

Unless specified on the product, most protein supplements are not intended to act as meal replacement options. This is because most shakes are high in protein, but low in carbohydrates, fats and other nutrients. If you are looking to use protein shakes to replace one of your meals, then I would suggest adding additional ingredients like fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds to fortify the shake with the added nutrients and calories.

If you would like additional information regarding high calorie shake options designed specifically to replace meals, then check out our article on the Best Meal Replacement Shakes.

Final Thoughts

Protein plays a key role in almost all of the biological processes of the body and consuming enough daily protein is extremely important for overall health and wellness. While protein shakes are not a replacement for a well-balanced and varied diet, they are a convenient and tasty way for individuals who struggle to consume enough of the muscle building macronutrient from their diet to meet their daily protein needs.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.