Simone received a master's degree in Journalism from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, where she focused on science and health long-form reporting and photojournalism. Before joining Everyday Health, Simone was an editorial director of health and parenting commerce and service content at Dotdash Meredith. She has experience covering mental health, fitness, food, and lifestyle topics, as well as significant experience reviewing and testing products for the Marketplace team, including online therapy, fitness gear, and food. She’s always interested in how products and services can make healthy living more accessible and practical. The only thing is it was a bit thin, so it went down a bit easier than protein shakes made with dairy.” If you’re looking for a milkier protein powder with similar macros, check out MyProtein The Whey. Since this is a protein powder, keep in mind you’ll need a bit of time to put together your protein shake before your head out for the day. Paleo Iced Coffee Protein Shake Let’s get into some of the best pre-made protein shakes for on-the-go days when you need a quick, easy, and tasty high-protein snack or meal replacement shake. While some pre-made protein shakes are available, make sure to read the labels and check what other ingredients are included. As long as you're eating a healthy diet, you likely don't need to add extra protein through protein shakes or other sources. This can happen if you drink protein shakes along with your usual diet and you're not eating less calories or exercising. For the plant-based drinks, we made sure they were made with a high-quality plant-based protein or a combination of proteins that supply all the essential amino acids necessary for building muscle. Because of this, we included whey protein options, as well as plant-based choices. Aloha Organic Protein Shakes are made with no artificial ingredients, and pack 20 grams of protein in each 12-ounce shake. We had another product tester try out the Milk Chocolate flavor, as well, and he claims, “The protein shake tastes exactly like chocolate milk when mixed with milk. Huel claims that its Ready-to-Drink shakes are the most nutritionally complete option available, and honestly, I believe it, based on the nutrition facts and ingredients. Along with 30 grams of muscle-building protein, each flavor contains about 5 grams each of carbohydrates and fats to give you around 200 calories per shake. We personally ordered, unboxed, and tested more than 20 pre-made protein shakes to determine which are the best. This guide to the best protein shakes wasn’t created by a faceless internet forum anon. A morning protein shake (20-30g) promotes fullness until lunch, curbing sugary snack cravings. Drinking a protein shake at the right time helps your body use it better. Meal replacement shakes are particularly helpful for individuals managing weight or aiming for weight loss, busy people, those with limited appetite, and those recovering from illness or surgery who may have trouble eating solid foods. Sassos also adds that many of these meal replacement shakes taste best when served cold or over ice, which can enhance flavor and make the texture creamier. While some lower-calorie options may still need to be paired with food for sustained energy, meal replacement shakes can be a practical solution for busy days or structured weight management. Best Protein Shake for Muscle Gain: MyProtein Clear Whey Isolate Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, so these shakes can help you feel fuller for longer periods as a meal replacement. Huel Ready-to-Drink Protein Shakes offer a balanced macronutrient profile with 17 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbs, and 35 grams of protein, making them ideal for meal replacements. (15) Given the clean ingredients, these vegan shakes are also completely free from common allergens, gluten, GMOs, and artificial ingredients. Plant-based diets can help support weight loss and reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol. Our tester rated this product a 5 out of 5 for texture and notes, “I thought these shakes were very creamy, like a whole milk. Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss in 2026, Tested and Dietitian Approved Yes, it's a little more expensive than other protein powders but you get what you pay for. These shakes contain all 27 essential vitamins and minerals, as well as ample fiber, fat, carbohydrates, omega 3s and 6s, BCAAs, and phytonutrients. I don’t LOVE them, but I love the effect of these shakes so much that I tolerate the “eh” taste,” says Amanda. This certified sports nutrition coach tried the complete lineup of Huel v2 Ready-to-Drink shakes, and while they’re not bad, per se, I definitely wouldn’t compare them to the Premier Protein or Fairlife shakes. Giant V3 Kettlebell Review ( : A Bell That’s Big on Quality, Bigger on Performance Keep portions light (20g) to avoid calories disrupting sleep, supporting repair without late-night hunger.The protein comes from a whey and milk protein blend, and the shake has less than 1 gram of added sugars.Drinking protein shakes can help support your weight loss goals by increasing your protein intake.“Some people, like those with kidney problems, allergies to dairy or soy, or sensitive stomachs, should be careful with protein powder,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM.The Kachava Shake is plant-based protein powder packed with vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, antioxidants, and super greens.That said, it’s also a cheaper alternative to pre-made shakes, costing only $1.40 per serving.In fact, some emulsifiers can have a positive impact on our gut bacteria and overall health, according to one systematic review8. Chilling them can also reduce any aftertaste from protein blends or sweeteners, making the shake more refreshing and enjoyable. They offer a structured mix of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals in a single serving. Meal replacement shakes can be a convenient way to get balanced nutrition when time is short or appetite is low. Relying on them too often, though, can mean missing out on the variety of nutrients whole foods provide, like fiber, essential fatty acids, and certain vitamins and minerals, which could affect gut health and overall nutrition over time. Protein supplements and shakes are designed to help boost daily protein intake. For girls and women trying to lose weight or stay strong, protein plays a big role in keeping energy levels... Not all carbs are high in calories, and that’s great news for anyone trying to manage their weight or fuel... Not all carbs are high in calories, and that’s great news for anyone trying to manage their weight or fuel.... What is the best time to drink protein shakes for weight loss? She created the sports nutrition rotation for the New York Distance Dietetic Internship program. She applies the tenets of lifestyle medicine to reduce the risk of chronic disease and improve health outcomes for her patients. She is a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and has a master's degree in nutrition and exercise physiology from Columbia University. She received a bachelor’s of science in food science and human nutrition from the University of Illinois and completed a dietetic internship at the University of Virginia Health System. For a 150-pound (lb) person, this would be about 68 to 89 g of protein per day. Thankfully, with the right recipes, your weight-loss protein shakes can be so delicious you’ll want to drink them every day.It’s high in protein while also low in carbs, calories, and added sugar.Protein powders are a great way to make the most of a healthy diet and exercise habits, and they could also help with the weight loss results you may be hoping for.“Sweet, but not overly sweet,” Brittany says, giving the overall taste a 5 out of 5.These shakes are not only vegan, but also free from gluten, soy and dairy.We know some people prefer to consume a protein shake as a meal replacement for the convenience factor.The protein has a high thermic effect (often estimated at ~20–30% of its calories), meaning your body uses more energy to process it than carbs or fat. This is for the people who either don’t have any protein powder on hand or just don’t like to use it all. Top it off with a cherry and sprinkles, and enjoy a protein shake that is reminiscent of a classic diner shake.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e This recipe from Minimalist Baker is a great example, using blueberries, yogurt (or cottage cheese), maple extract, and the protein powder of your choice to deliver a burst of flavor and staying power. You usually can’t go wrong with “chocolate” in the name, and this protein shake recipe uses chocolate wherever it can. Cottage cheese may sound strange as a smoothie or shake ingredient, but this low-fat, high-protein cheese provides a creamy texture and 12 grams of protein per 1/2 cup. While not all the time, sometimes protein shakes can be loaded with other sugars and fats. Here are some great options to consider as options for the best protein shakes for weight loss. A common misconception is that drinking protein shakes will make you bulk up or gain weight, as they’re often used by bodybuilders. So it's a good option if your strategy is to drink a shake in place of a meal for weight loss. That’s a complete protein source and a good alternative for anyone who doesn't like pea protein–based shakes. Choosing the right protein shake can feel daunting, since there are so many option — and they have various protein amounts, protein types, and additional ingredients. Protein shakes can be a great tool in people’s weight loss journey if used correctly. When looking for a protein shake, it’s important to flip over the bottle and check out the Nutrition Facts label. Protein shakes and powder serve the same purpose—to help increase your protein intake—but there are several factors that might make one better than the other for you. This can be due to whey or casein protein having lactose, or from using ingredients like sugar alcohols. While our pick for the best budget protein shake for weight loss starts at $1.66, you’ll want to make an informed choice based on the brand, form (powder or ready-to-drink), nutrition goals, and taste/texture preferences.And as long as you’re starting with a high-quality protein powder, like this casein protein powder from Transparent Labs, you’ll be in a good spot.A February 2021 review1 shows that health-promoting phytonutrients are more prevalent in grass-fed milk.For the chocolate flavor, there are 200 calories per bottle—most protein shakes (not meal replacement shakes) have around 120—and 13 grams of carbohydrates, 9 grams of which come from added sugar.However, we ultimately didn't choose this shake because it contains two artificial sweeteners in addition to stevia and monkfruit, carrageenan, and a few gum ingredients.It’s incredibly versatile and can be used on its own or as part of a meal replacement.Several research studies have shown that incorporating protein shakes can support weight loss efforts. Options of vegan protein vary in their calorie content but can also offer low-carb and low-calorie options to support weight loss and help you meet your goals. Check the labels to see if it is a lower calorie option than other forms of protein powders, but many offer very refined protein that cuts out other components. This way you know you’re getting mostly protein and little else for the calories you’re consuming. Who are meal replacement shakes best for? We like that this vegan, ready-made shake has well-rounded nutrients and is made with soy protein. One drawback is that the shakes have 360 mg of sodium per serving, so this option might not be right for anyone who needs to limit their sodium intake. But for those without an allergy, the coconut milk adds creaminess to this protein option. Of note, the added coconut milk and coconut sugar make this product unsafe for those with allergies to the fruit. Product Highlights One of the most important factors to we had to consider was how many grams of protein each shake offered per serving.“Instead of having a second cup of coffee in the morning, I’ve been drinking the Jocko Sweet Cream Coffee shake and getting more protein earlier in the day,” says Kate.The Vanilla flavor tastes like a vanilla milkshake and the Chocolate tastes like chocolate milk.“Even though it was watery, it didn’t leave any weird textures or grittiness like plant proteins sometimes can.”Top it off with a cherry and sprinkles, and enjoy a protein shake that is reminiscent of a classic diner shake.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e We highlighted both lower-calorie options (better suited for snacks or paired with food) and more substantial shakes in the 300–400 calorie range that may help sustain energy between meals. Beyond just the numbers, our dietitians also taste-tested the shakes and reviewed online customer feedback to see what real users thought about flavor and texture. While each bottle is on the pricier side (nearly $5), it’s a significant nutritional boost packed into a convenient shake. For women with a lower body mass than the average man who want, to lose weight and remain in a calorie deficit, a low-calorie option may be best. To prevent this, consuming 1.4 – 2.0 g/kg body weight has been shown to be sufficient in those who regularly exercise.6 A great all-round protein supplement, Impact Whey comes in delicious flavours, is low in sugar and has 21g of protein per serving. It’s important to make sure your shake contains other macro and micronutrients such as carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals. Everyone’s calorie needs vary depending on body size, body composition, health conditions, activity levels and goals. You can certainly do this with meal prepping and eating balanced whole foods, but protein shakes help you get there a little easier. Most protein shakes have at least 20 to 25 grams of protein, so they’re a good way to fill you up between meals or before or after workouts. Many pre-made protein shakes are made with a long list of artificial ingredients and fillers. Our testers, which include a team of certified nutrition coaches, certified personal trainers, and professional athletes, tried most of these protein shakes over the course of several weeks. But as far as vegan protein shakes go, it’s still pretty decent. The amount of protein can also help you meet your protein goals, compared to the USDA Dietary Guidelines recommendation for 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram per day. Although cheaper than other options out there, we gave this product a 4 out of 5 for its nutritional quality. It’s the cheapest protein drink on our list — our testers gave the price a score of 4 out of 5 stars. Knowing that, we think this shake is best used as an occasional protein supplement when you’re having trouble meeting your macro goals instead of a daily go-to. Ripple Vegan Protein Shake is a great option for someone looking for a protein shake that is free from animal products and environmentally friendly. Read our full OWYN protein shake review for more info. Anthony doesn’t call out any grassy or earthy undertones, so it’s well hidden; you won’t be getting something that tastes like a greens powder. It mixes pea protein with organic pumpkin seed and organic flax oil, which provides some healthy fats, too. In other words, make sure it’s low calorie and has enough protein to keep you full.Most protein shakes we recommend range from about $2.50 to $3.50 per serving, which we think is reasonable.Brittany Combs, GGR expert tester and a mother of three, picked this up for her little ones and says it’s worked well to keep her kids full until dinnertime.This number depends on your individual goals, how much protein you’re aiming to get daily, and whether you’re using it as a snack or a meal replacement.No matter which type you choose, protein shakes are a convenient, portable, and practical addition to a healthy weight loss plan.The goal here is to find a protein shake that can help boost your protein intake while keeping your overall calorie intake lower than how much you burn.Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. (12) “I love that Ample contains nutrients like vitamins and minerals in the formula so that it’s not just calories and probiotics,” our tester says. (9) Since these shakes contain 7 grams of dietary fiber, there are only 4 grams of net carbs — which is low enough for a keto diet. When you’re on a keto diet, your macros have to be on point for several days to weeks to keep your body in a state of ketosis. Ample's formula comes in 400 or 600 calorie vanilla or chocolate flavors that contain premium fats, proteins, fibers, antioxidants, and electrolytes in addition to the pre- and probiotics. Unlike creamier whey protein options, the whey protein in this powder is ultra-filtered to create a lighter texture and mouthfeel. At 400 calories per bottle, this shake is more of a meal than a snack for most people. Koia Elite Plant-Based Protein Shake has the highest amount of protein per serving of all the shakes we tried at 32 g per bottle. “This is one of my favorite plant-based powders flavor-wise — plus, my kids approve of it,” said health writer Caitlin Beale, RDN. Protein Shakes are a great way to get instant protein in your body. For girls and women trying to lose weight or stay strong, protein plays a big role in keeping energy levels steady and cravings away. Valerie Agyeman (she/her) is a women's health dietitian and the host of the Flourish Heights podcast, where she produces science-driven content covering overlooked nutrition, wellness and women’s health topics. Valerie Agyeman, R.D., is a women's health dietitian with over 10 years of experience in clinical nutrition, corporate wellness, and nutrition communications. Lower-calorie shakes may need extra food alongside them, while 300 to 400 calorie options may be more filling on their own. The 10 Unhealthiest Protein Shakes on Grocery Shelves Those who are watching their sugar intake will appreciate that the sweetness in this drink comes only from dates. Kefir is a fermented drink that provides probiotics, vitamins, and protein. Those concerned about artificial ingredients may be taken aback by the long ingredients list. They’re sweet but not too sweet, and even though they contain artificial sweeteners, I don’t get that distinct aftertaste. Adding protein to your daily diet doesn’t have to break the bank with a Premier Protein Shake. It’s also certified non-GMO, but if you easily have problems from artificial sweeteners, then beware—Pure Protein uses some sucralose as a sweetener in addition to sugar. Another tester, certified personal trainer Lauren Strong, tried the Strawberry Milkshake, and loved the texture. Protein is important for fat loss and building lean muscle mass11. Losing weight shouldn’t be a miserable journey—you can enjoy the foods and drinks you’re consuming. Typically, whey protein is considered the gold standard for protein supplements, but we know that everyone has different goals and preferences. While these drinks may prompt weight loss as part of an overall calorie-restricted diet, they don’t do much for your overall wellness. This unflavored protein mixes easily into any flavor of beverage or smoothie, or in prepared foods like oatmeal or healthy baked goods. It's low in calories, with only 90 calories per bottle, and it’s sweetened with monk fruit extract and stevia, not sugar. Good and solid flavor — I would say that it’s a total fruit juice taste,” said health writer Raki Swanson. Whether you’re juggling a packed schedule or striving for sustainable weight loss, they’re an easy way to fuel up. On days when life feels nonstop, meal replacement shakes can be a quick, nutritious solution. Keep in mind, though, that liquids don’t keep people as satiated as solid foods, so you might still feel hungry after drinking a protein shake. We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. She has also completed her nutrition coach certification from NASM and personal training certification from ISSA. Erin has experience writing and editing workout-based, human interest, product reviews, and advertorial stories within the fitness industry. After making sure it has enough protein for your macronutrient needs—along with a moderate amount of carbs and fat—check the ingredients list. “Some people, like those with kidney problems, allergies to dairy or soy, or sensitive stomachs, should be careful with protein powder,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Many shakes include natural alternatives to sugar, as well, such as stevia extracts and monk fruit extract. It supports muscle building and weight loss while being totally plant-based, making it ideal for vegans. Mid-day shakes replace high-calorie snacks, stabilizing blood sugar to fend off afternoon cravings and fatigue. The protein has a high thermic effect (often estimated at ~20–30% of its calories), meaning your body uses more energy to process it than carbs or fat. Whey protein isolate is considered a high-quality protein because it goes through more processing compared to regular whey. With 8 different flavors and 28 grams of whey protein from hormone-free, grass-fed cows, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is an excellent way to hit your protein macros. However, since it’s a premixed shake, it does contain some low-grade fillers like soy lecithin, vegetable oil, and gellan gum to achieve its creamy and smooth texture. The best protein shakes for weight loss are higher in protein content and lower in carbs, calories, and added sugar. While our pick for the best budget protein shake for weight loss starts at $1.66, you’ll want to make an informed choice based on the brand, form (powder or ready-to-drink), nutrition goals, and taste/texture preferences. While there’s so many options for protein shakes, the best for weight loss are the ones that help you meet your protein goals without going overboard on calories. From a nutrition standpoint, protein shakes can replace a meal, so long as their caloric and protein content are equal to that of a plate of whole foods. Yes, Premier protein shakes are perceived as healthy because they contain a high amount of protein with low amounts of carbs and fat. We have an entire roundup dedicated to the best protein shakes for weight loss, which features some of our favorite shakes including Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate and Ka’Chava Shakes. In other words, make sure it’s low calorie and has enough protein to keep you full. Calories aren’t everything, but forgoing a quick check could be detrimental to your goals if you’re either trying to lose weight or gain weight. “It’s important to adjust your protein intake to match your lifestyle and other nutrient needs, making sure your body gets what it needs without overdoing it,” says Dr. Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD,. Since dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA, having an independent third-party lab verify that what’s on the label is truly what’s in the shake is important for your health and safety. Overall, we think these shakes are nutritionally complete and well-suited as meal replacements beyond protein. These shakes also include a micronutrient blend of 27 essential vitamins and minerals and 6 grams of dietary fiber, providing comprehensive nutrition to support weight loss. “These shakes are a bit watery, but the texture is not as bad as your typical protein powders,” our tester says, giving the texture a score of 3.5 out of 5 stars. I don’t add the full serving size to my small espresso drink in the morning, but adding in a small portion still made my espresso tastier and also gave the benefit of added protein.” Brittany rated them a 5 out of 5 for taste and a 5 out of 5 for effects since they were so filling. “It’s very well balanced for someone who is counting their macros, too, with ample fat cand carbs.” “They really did their research to include all the micronutrients one would need for a complete meal and made it gluten-free to top it off,” says Brittany. When protein shakes are paired with a protein-rich diet, they work together to support healthy weight loss and muscle maintenance. Makers of protein shakes may say that their products help lower body fat or promote weight loss. If you have additional fitness or body composition goals beyond weight loss, drinking protein shakes before or after your workouts can help increase muscle mass, while drinking protein shakes before bedtime can help increase muscle strength. Huel’s ready-to-drink shakes deliver a complete, balanced meal in a convenient grab-and-go format. After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, Williams developed these shakes to provide the nutrients she needed to fuel her body. Created by tennis star Venus Williams, Happy Viking shakes are 100% plant-based and designed to support active lifestyles. Aim to get a protein-rich meal or shake within a few hours after training (sooner if you trained fasted or haven’t eaten for a while). Whether it’s morning, post-workout, or before bed, timing can make all the difference in how your body uses that protein power. Shakes provide protein, vitamins, minerals, and controlled calories, making it easier to meet nutritional needs on the go. While useful in moderation, relying on meal replacement shakes too often can have drawbacks. According to our research, protein shakes for weight loss can cost anywhere from $1.66 to $9.00. Incorporating protein shakes into your diet offers multiple benefits for weight loss and overall fitness. As a registered dietitian, I typically recommend choosing protein shakes with minimal fillers whenever possible, since these ingredients do not contribute any nutritional value like vitamins or minerals. Read on to discover the best protein shakes to help you achieve your weight loss goals, hand-picked by our testers and expert reviewer after evaluating over 100 protein shakes on the market. This bumps up the micronutrient and antioxidant profile so you’re not just getting protein—you’re getting other important nutrients too.But when to drink the protein shakes for weight loss is a question that pops into every mind at first.All shakes and powders were tested by registered dietitians, health editors, or health writers.Available in flavors like triple chocolate, strawberry, berry parfait, and vanilla, Happy Viking shakes also come in convenient travel packets for on-the-go use.Ample's formula comes in 400 or 600 calorie vanilla or chocolate flavors that contain premium fats, proteins, fibers, antioxidants, and electrolytes in addition to the pre- and probiotics.But it still only has 2 grams of sugar and 9 grams of total carbohydrates, which is pretty balanced for a shake that’s supplying so many other nutrients too.When it comes to taste, Anthony and Kate scored Jocko Molk at 3.5 out of 5 stars.She contributes to food and supplement testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab and writes nutrition content for Good Housekeeping.Plus, when you’re burning calories during intense workouts, protein shakes not only help your muscles to repair, but also prevent their breakdown. Every woman’s body is different, so it’s about finding a rhythm that fits your lifestyle and goals. When paired with protein-rich foods, they help you stay full, build lean muscle, and keep your metabolism active. By adjusting your diet, hydration, and exercise habits, you can improve protein utilization for maximum health benefits. Whole foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while shakes help fill in the gaps on busy days. Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. Though she specializes in pediatric nutrition, she is passionate about helping people of all ages lead a healthy lifestyle. This stabilizes blood sugar after overnight fasting, enhancing focus and setting a calorie-controlled tone for the day.Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news.While GGR senior staff writer and 2020 Olympian weightlifter Caine Wilkes hasn’t had this flavor, his wife Emelie has had it many times before and likes the Vanilla Milkshake.Another kid-friendly option you could look into is Nourished Kids, which earned the top spot on our best protein powder for kids list.Ideal for busy schedules, this fits seamlessly into weight loss by bridging meals without nutrient gaps from whole foods.Many blends give all the nutrients your body needs to stay strong. Everyone’s calorie needs vary depending on body size, body composition, health conditions, activity levels, and goals. When it comes to losing weight, it's as simple as calories in vs. calories out. Protein powder is a convenient protein source that can be used to help meet your workout goals, or to ensure that you consume enough protein each day. Orgain Organic Grass-Fed Protein Shake is a great option if you are looking for a standard protein shake that is organic with clean ingredients. Still, as you can see from our list, protein shake recipes can include other flavorful, nutritious ingredients like fruit, veggies, nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners. This combination of almond milk, almond butter, banana, chocolate protein powder, and cocoa powder will instantly satisfy your sweet cravings but will keep you feeling full for hours. This Walnut and Honey Spiced Shake from Minimalist Baker is the perfect choice for a super creamy, super indulgent protein shake that still gives your body a big boost of nutrients. Made with protein powder, cashew butter, banana, almond milk, and pumpkin puree, it provides a huge boost of protein and plenty of fiber from the pureed pumpkin. She did feel satisfied after drinking the shakes, but said it wasn’t overwhelming trying to get them down. “I do have a little bit of GI distress after drinking this, which honestly isn’t surprising considering that it’s 20 grams of pea protein and 10 grams of fiber. The Evolve shakes lost some points for side effects—Frieda gave them a 3 out of 5. Many blends give all the nutrients your body needs to stay strong. It’s a great choice if you’re not sensitive to dairy and want fast results. It helps muscles recover after a workout and keeps you full longer. Each type works a little differently in your body, so the best one depends on your goals, diet, and how you feel after drinking it. Adding a scoop of peanut butter, swapping water for milk, or adding oats and fruit to your shake is a great way to pack nutrients in.Brittany received her undergraduate degree in human nutrition and dietetics from University of North Carolina in Greensboro.Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing.She also writes freelance food and nutrition content and has been featured in publications like Eating Well, Food & Wine, Shape, The Spruce Eats, U.S. News 360 Reviews, Verywell Health, and many more.The diet's overall nutrient density may benefit weight loss and health goals.Though she specializes in pediatric nutrition, she is passionate about helping people of all ages lead a healthy lifestyle.But we found that other options had more protein and less sugar, as this shake contains only 16 g of protein per serving, and contains 11 to 12 g of added sugars depending on the flavor.While there are some artificial ingredients, they are present in small quantities and should pose no risks to human health, so long as they are had in moderation.It does have a good amount of total protein, though, especially for a vegan option. However, a protein shake packed with other goodness makes a great breakfast. When trying to lose weight, the bottom line is that you need to consume fewer calories than your body burns throughout the day. In this article we’ll take you through how protein works to help with weight loss, as well as ideas for how to make it work for you and your diet. Since protein has calories, consuming too much can make it harder to lose weight. “It mixes decently in water, milk, and almond milk, but it seems that the thicker the liquid, the tougher it is to mix.” If you’re wanting a few more flavor options, try out Legion Plant+, which has six different flavors to choose from. She tried the chocolate and said it’s just the right balance of creaminess. Just like taste, these shakes earn another perfect score for texture. The Vanilla flavor tastes like a vanilla milkshake and the Chocolate tastes like chocolate milk. OWYN uses pea protein, which contains most of the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair, though it’s low in methionine. And if you’re following a Keto diet, this shake can meet your higher-fat, lower-carb needs. This recipe is also Paleo-friendly, but if you’re not following a Paleo eating plan and can consume dairy, you can switch out the coconut yogurt and almond milk for dairy products for even more protein. At this rate, you could benefit from a protein shake that has around grams of protein. For example, let’s say you’re aiming for 125 grams of protein per day, and you get around 30 grams of protein per meal. Koia’s ready-to-drink shakes offer a convenient, nutritious option with 20 grams of protein from brown rice, pea, and chickpea, plus 21 essential vitamins and minerals. That said, the shakes do contain about 18 grams of added sugar, which is lower than some competitors but still on the higher side. Created by a family seeking better nutrition for their daughter, our dietitians appreciate the thoughtfully selected plant-based ingredients in Kate Farms Nutrition Shake compared to those of other products on the market. This nutrient-dense meal-replacement shake is a Sassos favorite, who says it’s not only tasty but also blends well. Higher levels of muscle, or lean mass, increase metabolism for greater calorie burn even at rest. They are, however, a great way to pad out your day with some extra protein. High-protein food sources can also be more satisfying in terms of volume. Food stays in the stomach for longer, so your brain thinks you’re full and satisfied.2 Research has shown more protein in our diet leads to lower levels of ghrelin.3 The lower the level of ghrelin, the more satisfied you’ll feel.