5 Best Protein Shake Brands, According to Our Nutritionist
Ready-to-drink options for all of your muscle needs.
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Protein shakes are no longer just for hardcore athletes or the muscle heads pumping metal at your gym. The right one can help you get more protein if you’re lacking (say, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan) or help you increase your intake if your exercise regimen requires it.
But it's important that you don’t rely on protein powders and shakes for all of your protein needs. “Real food should always be prioritized, and these aren’t designed to be a replacement for meals,” says Stefani Sassos, MS, RDN, CDN, registered dietitian for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
If you're looking to incoporate a ready-to-drink option, here's what to keep in mind when choosing a protein shake:
- Aim for 15-30 grams of protein per standard 12oz shaker bottle depending on your health and nutrition goals.
- Try to choose options with at least 3 grams of fiber, which helps keep you full and supports good digestion.
- Keep it under 8 grams of added sugar, ideally less.
- Avoid protein shakes with an excessive amount of artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, which can cause or contribute to digestive issues.
Here are a few of our picks for the best protein shakes on the market today:
"OWYN is by far my top pick," says Sassos. "It has a silky consistency and amazing taste." It's also 100% vegan, made from a plant-based protein blend of pea protein, pumpkin seed protein, and flax oil. It clocks in at just 4g added sugar and packs in 5g of fiber and 20g of protein.
ALOHA Organic Plant Based Coconut Protein Shake with MCT Oil
This USDA certified organic shake has just 7g net carbs and is sweetened with coconut sugar and monkfruit extract. It's also plant-based and comes in yummy flavors like coconut, chocolate sea salt and vanilla.
"I really like the chocolate banana flavor," says Sassos. "It has just 4g of added sugar and packs in 6g of fiber and 18g of protein." It's also dairy and gluten free.
With 12g of protein, this checks in on the lower end of the protein scale, but it's also low in calories and contains bonus health boosters like turmeric and maca, and it is sweetened with stevia.
Take a quiz about things like your body composition, lifestyle habits and diet, and Gainful helps you find the right protein powder to help you achieve your health goals. There are both whey and plant-based options, as well as flavors for every taste, and they'll deliver it right to your doorstep.
