Protein shakes have evolved into a realm of delectable flavors and creamy textures that no longer make you want to give up on your health and fitness goals. From rich chocolate to luscious vanilla and even exotic fruit blends, there is a protein shake flavor to suit every palate. Drinking the best protein shakes is like sipping on dessert, only guilt-free and packed with muscle-reviving protein goodness.
But it’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about nourishing your body. Protein shakes are a powerhouse of nutrients, supplying your muscles with the amino acids they crave for recovery and growth. They’re the ultimate post-workout refreshment, helping you bounce back faster and stronger. Plus, they keep you feeling fuller for longer, making them a savvy choice for those seeking to curb unhealthy cravings and maintain a balanced diet.
Ingredients to look for in protein shakes:
Protein shakes have ascended the ranks from gym-bag staples to mainstream wellness wonders. But with countless options lining the shelves, choosing the “best” can feel like navigating a protein powder blizzard. Fear not, fitness fanatic! Let’s break down the essential ingredients that transform a good shake into a great one.
- Protein: The star of the show, protein fuels muscle growth, repairs tissue, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Whey protein is a popular choice for its fast absorption, while plant-based options like pea or soy protein offer lactose-free alternatives. Look for shakes boasting at least 20g of protein per serving to reap the benefits.
- Sweeteners: Ditch the sugar-laden shakes masquerading as health drinks. Opt for natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, or unsweetened varieties you can customize with your own fruit. Bonus points for added fiber from chia seeds or flaxseed, which aid digestion and keep you feeling satisfied.
- Micronutrients: Look for shakes fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, like calcium for bone health, vitamin D for immune function, and B vitamins for energy metabolism. Green leafy vegetables or a scoop of spirulina can also sneak in some extra micronutrient magic.
- Sustainability: Steer clear of shakes laden with artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and thickeners. Look for brands committed to transparency, using organic ingredients and avoiding unnecessary additives. Your body (and taste buds) will thank you.
Now that you know what to look for in a yummy and healthy shake, it’s time to dive into the brands that make it all happen! That’s why we have put together this conclusive list of the best protein shakes that were most recommended across 10 expert sources. Leave us a comment down below if we missed one of your favorites!
These Protein Shakes Take the Cake as Fitness Expert Favorites
1. OWYN Vegan Protein Shakes
The most popular protein shake in all the land is made by OWYN. OWYN stands for “Only What You Need.” The brand makes many delicious flavors to choose from! Food Network recommends the smooth vanilla flavor which is 180 calories, 20 grams of protein, and five grams of fiber per serving.
Even if you’re not vegan you can still enjoy the OWYN protein shake. Garage Gym Reviews recommends OWYN shakes for those with anything from minor dairy allergies to autoimmune diseases. This is because they are free of common irritants like dairy, animal products, nuts, gluten, and more.
OWYN includes protein derived from peas and pumpkin seeds. Plus, every flavor disguises a broccoli, kale, and spinach blend for even more of a nutritional power boost. Each shake is sweetened with monk fruit extract.
Because they are only 180 calories, Health suggests pairing the dark chocolate flavor with a banana or nut butter on toast for an easy, but filling meal.
2. Ripple Protein Shake
Next on the list of highly recommended protein shakes is Ripple Protein. Health praises their chocolate flavor for its robust nutrient profile and simple ingredient list. The shake, known for its smooth and creamy consistency, offers 20 grams of plant-based protein, along with significant amounts of calcium and iron—essential for those on a vegan diet. Health suggests pairing it with carbohydrates for optimal recovery after a workout, emphasizing its suitability as a snack with 200 calories per bottle, although not sufficient to replace a meal.
Protein shakes like Ripple are lauded as ideal companions for those aiming to build muscle, tone up, or increase protein intake. Garage Gym Reviews notes the smooth and moderately sweet chocolate flavor, praising the balanced texture that is neither too creamy nor too thin. The shakes are enjoyed willingly, not just as a quick protein fix.
Ripple brand protein shakes are considered revolutionary in the health industry. Food Network highlights Ripple as the first brand to introduce pea milk, offering a stellar plant-based protein shake derived from pea protein, cane sugar, and flavorings. With 20 grams of protein, along with carbs, sodium, and potassium, this shake is recommended for replenishing losses from exercise.
3. Kate Farms Nutrition Shakes
Kate Farms nutrition shakes stand out as one of the more calorie-dense options in the market, offering a well-balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Health suggests it can serve as a light, on-the-go meal or be paired with an apple and almonds for a more satisfying option. It’s also recommended for post-workout refueling when a full meal may not be appealing.
Consideration of taste is crucial when choosing the right protein shake. CNET highlights Kate Farms’ use of organic yellow pea protein in its plant-based shakes, which are gluten, soy, dairy, and artificial sweetener-free. The shakes are praised for their creamy and delicious quality, with a higher calorie content (330 calories) suitable for a meal replacement beverage, not just a protein shake.
Following an intense workout, the satisfaction of a protein shake is unparalleled. Medical News Today mentions that Kate Farms’ shake is enriched with phytonutrients from nutritious foods like organic broccoli, green tea, and turmeric. The shake is specifically noted for its absence of artificial sweeteners and is free from various allergens, providing a refreshing option after exercise.
4. Fairlife Core Power Protein Milk Shake
Fairelife makes two different versions of their shakes. They have regular Core Power Shakes and Core Power Elite Shakes. What’s the difference? Elite shakes simply have more protein in them. Garage Gym Reviews likes the Elite Vanilla flavor, praising its taste, texture, and protein content. They consulted certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly, who says the milk-like texture and Elite Vanilla flavor, reminiscent of childhood vanilla ice cream cones, earned it a perfect five out of five on taste.
Protein shakes serve as more than just supplements for gym enthusiasts; they are valuable tools for anyone focused on maintaining proper nutrition. Breaking Muscle highlights the Fairlife Core Power Elite shakes, emphasizing their exceptional protein content with 42 grams and only eight grams of carbohydrates. These shakes are particularly recommended for those aiming to gain muscle, as high-protein diets have been found beneficial for muscle mass increase.
One of the key advantages of protein shakes is their ability to satiate hunger while promoting internal growth. Health underscores the benefits of Fairlife Core Power shakes, offering 26 grams of protein, which is beneficial for athletes with elevated protein needs. Additionally, Fairlife Core Protein helps meet daily calcium requirements with 50 percent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults and serves as a good source of potassium for healthy blood pressure support.
5. Chobani Mixed Berry Vanilla Shake
Next up is a shake from Chobani. No, not the yogurt, the protein shake. Very Well Fit enthusiastically praises the Chobani Complete Mixed Berry Vanilla Shake as an excellent on-the-go option, providing 20 grams of protein from cultured, low-fat milk and 16 grams of carbohydrates from a berry puree blend. The convenience of this shake makes it a favorite snack. For those looking to turn it into a complete meal, adding a handful of nuts for healthy fats is recommended. The product, available in four flavors, is lactose-free, suitable for those with lactose intolerances, and contains added lactase. It can be enjoyed pre or post workout, depending on exercise intensity and duration.
You can even make Chobani Complete shakes customizable. Tailor them to your preferences by adding fruits, veggies, nut butter, or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor. Health notes that the shakes, available in various flavors and sweetened with stevia and monk fruit extract, derive their protein from yogurt, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. All flavors are gluten-free, lactose-free (due to added lactase), Kosher, and free from artificial flavors.
Indulging in something sweet can be guilt-free with Chobani Complete shakes, as Garage Gym Reviews points out. Sweetened with monk fruit and stevia leaf extract, these shakes have a higher sugar content (11 to 12 grams per bottle, depending on the flavor) from natural fruit and milk sugars, with none of it being added sugar—a positive aspect for health-conscious consumers.
What is your favorite protein shake flavor combination? Leave a comment to let us know!
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Sources:
- Garage Gym Reviews
- Food Network
- Medical News Today
- Health
- Very Well Fit
- Breaking Muscle
- Pinkvilla
- Sports Illustrated
- Discover Magazine
- CNET
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