Drinking protein shakes can help support your weight loss goals by increasing your protein intake. (1) But finding the best protein shakes for weight loss can feel overwhelming with new brands popping up on your feed weekly. In this review, we’ve evaluated eight top contenders based on their protein sources, ingredient quality, calorie content, taste, texture, effectiveness, credibility, and price.
Whether you’re looking for meal replacements, a convenient way to boost your protein intake, or the best post-workout supplements, our carefully curated list offers something for everyone. 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.
The 8 Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss
- Best Protein Shake for Weight Loss Overall: Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake
- Best Protein Shake Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Keto Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Ample Low-Carb Meal Shake
- Best Budget Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Shake
- Best Tasting Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Premier Protein Shake
- Best Organic Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Orgain Organic Protein Shake
- Best Vegan Protein Shake for Weight Loss: OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shake
- Best Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Loss: Huel Ready-to-Drink
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best protein shakes for weight loss available today, we’ve tested nearly 100 different profiles from the industry’s best brands, using a multi-point supplement testing methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.
- Protein Source: Protein shakes for weight loss can vary in source, from casein and collagen to quinoa and brown rice protein. Different protein sources can offer varying digestibility and nutritional benefits, which we considered in our testing.
- Protein Amount: The USDA recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein intake for a sedentary adult is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, while some individuals need up to 1.6 grams. (2)(3) This means that you’ll want at least 20 grams of protein in a shake depending on your weight and activity level. All the picks on our list contain a minimum of this amount of protein.
- Ingredient Quality: We evaluated the ingredient list for each product on our list. A high-quality, clean ingredient list should be easy to pronounce, without any unnecessary fillers, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.
- Calories: To achieve weight loss, a calorie deficit is necessary by consuming fewer calories than you’re burning. (4) Our roundup consists of options that are generally lower in calories to help achieve a calorie deficit unless a protein shake is intended to replace a full meal — in which case, the number of calories could be higher.
- Taste: While taste is highly subjective, we’ve included a variety of different flavors ranging from neutral to decadent for those who enjoy drinking delicious protein shakes.
- Texture: Since protein shakes often get a bad rap for being gritty in texture, we evaluated the product’s mixability and texture. We’ve included many picks on our list that are creamy and smooth in texture.
- Credibility: Since supplements are not FDA-tested, we checked whether the product is third-party tested. Third-party testing ensures the purity, quality, safety, and efficacy of a product and its ingredients. However, many of the picks on our list are sold as food and not supplements, so those are regulated by the FDA and do not necessarily need third-party testing.
- Price: The best protein shakes typically range from $1.66 to $9.00. We’ve included both budget-friendly options and more specialized, premium options for your consideration depending on your needs and preferences.
Best Protein Shake for Weight Loss Overall: Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake
Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake is recommended for weight loss due to its high protein content (30 grams of milk protein isolate and concentrate) and low levels of carbs, calories, and added sugar. It offers a smooth, creamy texture and a taste similar to a milkshake, making it a satisfying and cost-effective choice for weight loss overall.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.86
- Protein Source: Milk protein concentrate, milk protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 30 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 170 calories
- Third-Party Testing: No
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Coffee, Salted Caramel
Pros
- 30 grams of protein to support weight loss
- Low in calories, sugar, and carbs
- Rich and decadent taste
- Smooth and creamy texture
- Includes calcium, potassium, and iron
Cons
- Contains low-grade fillers
- Stevia extract may taste bitter
Overall, we think the best protein shake for weight loss is Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake. Why? It’s high in protein while also low in carbs, calories, and added sugar. Getting enough protein is important when you’re trying to lose weight because it’s the most satiating macronutrient — and this product boasts 30 grams of milk protein isolate and concentrate. (5)
Supplementing with protein can also help you gain and retain muscle when you’re losing weight to maintain that toned look. (6) To lose weight, you need to consume fewer calories than you use up. (4) With only 170 calories per serving, 4 grams of carbs, and 1 gram of added sugar, this protein shake can help you achieve a calorie deficit.
The formulation boasts 30 grams of milk protein isolate and concentrate, only 1 gram of added sugar, 50 percent of the recommended daily value (DV) for calcium, 10 percent of the DV for iron, and 6 percent of the DV for potassium. 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. 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. Overall, our testers rated the nutritional profile a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
This high-protein shake is ideal for those who have sweet cravings and want a delicious protein supplement. According to Amazon reviews, this product tastes like a milkshake. It comes in several rich and decadent flavors that you can try out. Some individuals did note a slightly bitter aftertaste, which is due to the addition of stevia extract, a natural sweetener.
Moreover, the price is reasonable for what you get — our testers gave the price a rating of 4 out of 5. At $1.86 per shake, it’s a reasonable price point to consider as a meal replacement or a snack.
Best Protein Shake Powder for Weight Loss Overall: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
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. Transparent Labs is also offering 25% off sitewide from November 28 through December 3, and all orders over $150 will receive a free gift bundle including a gym bag, shaker bottle, and free samples of popular products.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.80 to $2.00
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 130 calories
- Third-Party Testing: Various third-party analytical laboratories
- Available Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Strawberry Milkshake, Unflavored, Dark Chocolate, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cinnamon French Toast, Sugar Cookie, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Blueberry Pancakes
Pros
- Powdered form, which means fewer fillers than premixed shakes
- 100 percent grass-fed whey isolate
- Excellent macronutrient profile for weight loss
- No artificial sweeteners or artificial flavors
Cons
- High in sodium, depending on the flavor
- Not as tasty as other options
- Expensive for a powder
While many best protein powders out there only contain regular whey, Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate doesn’t skimp on including a high-quality source of protein: whey protein isolate. That’s why we named it the best protein shake powder for weight loss. Also, since it’s in a powder form, we don’t have to worry about added fillers and artificial ingredients to try to achieve a creamy texture.
Whey protein isolate is considered a high-quality protein because it goes through more processing compared to regular whey. This process makes it more digestible and removes much of the lactose content to make it virtually lactose-free while yielding a higher protein content — which can support your weight loss goals by meeting your protein intake and increasing your body’s supply of essential amino acid leucine. (7)
With 28 grams of protein, the amount of protein per serving in this protein powder is also well-suited for weight loss purposes, compared to the recommended amount of at least 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day according to the USDA Dietary Guidelines. (2)
With 1 gram of carbs and 1 gram of fat, this protein powder’s macronutrient profile is solid. Given its third-party tested, clean ingredient list and whey isolate content, our tester gave Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate a 5 out of 5 stars for nutritional quality and notes, “I experienced no stomach rumbles or bloating as you get with some other protein powders.”
The only downside with the formulation is the higher sodium content. Our expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., who is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, states, “People who are watching their sodium intake may not like that some flavors contain 370 mg of sodium per scoop, which is higher than many other protein powders on the market.”
Taste is another aspect of this protein supplement that could use some improvement. Our testers rated this product’s taste at 3.5 out of 5. “The taste was OK, but I could have probably explored my options for better flavors,” our tester states. There are a variety of flavors to try, though, so you can experiment and find a flavor that you enjoy. Overall, if you want one of the best whey isolate protein powders for weight loss, give Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate a whirl.
Read our full Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder Review.
Best Keto Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Ample Low-Carb Meal Shake
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.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $4.48 to $9.00
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein concentrate, pea protein, egg white protein
- Protein Per Serving: 25 to 34 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 400 to 600 calories
- Third-Party Testing: No
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Berry
Pros
- Keto-friendly to help keep your body in ketosis
- Made with whole foods
- Contains vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and antioxidants
Cons
- Doesn’t disclose the breakdown of omega-3 content
- Very expensive
- Slightly bland taste
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. (8) Fortunately, with 28 grams of fat, only 4 grams of net carbohydrates, and 25 grams of protein, Ample Low-Carb Meal Shakes fit the bill, whether as a keto-friendly snack or one of the best low-carb protein protein powders that can replace a meal. While the total carbohydrate content is 11 grams, keto dieters often track “net carbs”, which is total carbs minus the dietary fiber. (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.
Ample Low-Carb Meal Shakes contain several sources of fat from whole foods to deliver its high-fat formula. First, they contain medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil and coconut oil. MCT oils are a form of fat that is more readily absorbed in your body — one of the many benefits of MCT oils is that it may support reduction of weight, making it a popular option for keto dieters. (10)
Second, these shakes also contain macadamia nut oil, which is a good source of “healthy” fats to support your overall health and heart health. (11) To balance out the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids, the formulation also contains omega-3 fatty acids from chia seeds. However, our tester states, “I didn’t find any information on how many omega-3 fatty acids I’m getting from the ingredients.” As a registered dietitian, I love seeing healthy fats from MCTs and nuts incorporated into keto diets compared to the standard keto diet, which recommends animal-based fats that can be high in unhealthy fats.
We thought it was a nice bonus that Ample Low-Carb Meal Shakes also support weight loss beyond the keto-friendly aspect by including vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and antioxidants, which you don’t often get from other protein shakes for weight loss. These shakes contain 40 billion CFUs of probiotics to support healthy digestion, which is helpful when you’re trying to lose weight and have regular bowel movements. (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.
While there aren’t many downsides to these shakes, they’re the most expensive on our list and can also taste a little bland. But, if you’re following a strict keto diet and need a good protein shake option for weight loss, Ample Low-Carb Meal Shakes might have to be your new go-to option.
Read our full Ample Low-Carb Meal Shake Review.
Best Budget Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Shake
Optimum Nutrition offers a cost-effective protein drink at $1.66 to $1.75 per serving, making it the cheapest option on our list while still providing 24 vitamins and minerals, and 24 grams of protein, including essential amino acids and BCAAs. Despite its low price, it doesn’t skimp on quality and received high marks for taste and nutritional quality.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.66 to $1.75
- Protein Source: Protein Blend (Milk Protein Isolate, Milk Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Concentrate)
- Protein Per Serving: 24 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 140 calories
- Third-Party Testing: Tested for banned substances
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla
Pros
- Cheapest per-serving option on our list
- Contains 24 vitamins and minerals
- 9 essential amino acids including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
Cons
- Unnecessary fillers
- Sweetened with artificial sweeteners
- Limited to chocolate and vanilla flavors
Looking for good value for your money? Optimum Nutrition offers bang for your buck at a cost-effective price of $1.66 to $1.75 per serving. It’s the cheapest protein drink on our list — our testers gave the price a score of 4 out of 5 stars. We know fitness pursuits can get expensive between all the supplements, performance clothing, and at-home gear, so saving some money always helps.
Although cheaper than other options out there, we gave this product a 4 out of 5 for its nutritional quality. Our expert reviewer, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., states, “I like that this product contains 24 grams of protein, including a good amount of BCAAs and EAAs, and it’s also low in carbs with 0 grams of sugar.” The complete protein blend found in this protein shake contains milk and whey protein, and the latter can help support muscle growth. (6)
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. (2) It also contains 24 vitamins and minerals to help meet your daily value for various nutrients.
However, where this product lost marks for its formulation was due to a lack of transparency in how much of each protein goes into the blend and some of the undesirable ingredients. “I didn’t like that it didn’t disclose how much of each protein is in the protein blend. It also contains some artificial ingredients like sucralose and acesulfame potassium,” Bourgeois says. In addition, it contains low-grade fillers to achieve a creamy, ready-to-drink texture.
While this protein shake is only limited to vanilla and chocolate flavors, they’re both pretty tasty and satisfy even the most discerning palate. Our testers gave this protein shake a solid taste rating of 4 out of 5. If you’re on a tight budget and want a delicious, effective, and nutritious option, Optimum Nutrition has you covered.
Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Shake Review.
Best Tasting Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Premier Protein Shake
Premier Protein Shakes offer a delicious and nutritious option with 30 grams of protein, only 1 gram of sugar, and 24 vitamins and minerals. Rated 5 out of 5 stars for taste, they are an excellent choice for those who don't want to compromise on flavor while meeting their protein intake goals.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.23 to $2.35
- Protein Source: Milk protein concentrate
- Protein Per Serving: 30 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 160 calories
- Third-Party Testing: No
- Available Flavors: Banana, Cafe Latte, Cake Batter, Caramel, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Cookie Dough, Cookies & Cream, Mint Chocolate, Peaches & Cream, Pumpkin Spice, Root Beer Float, Strawberry, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla
Pros
- Rated best taste with over 150,000 5-star Amazon reviews for their 16 flavor choices
- 30 grams of protein with only 1 gram of sugar
- 24 vitamins and minerals
- Gluten-free, keto-friendly, and kosher
Cons
- Contains low-grade filler ingredients
- A bit expensive
- Texture can be chunky at room temperature
Don’t want to compromise on taste when choosing a protein shake? Premier Protein Shakes are a delicious way to meet your protein intake goals. With many decadent flavors to choose from, our testers rated this product a 5 out of 5 stars for taste. Our tester says, “I LOVE these! The vanilla tastes like a milkshake and the chocolate is just like chocolate milk. They’re the perfect amount of sweetness.” Pro tip: Try replacing your morning frappe with a Cafe Latte Premier Protein Shake with some ice cubes – you’ll still get your caffeine fix while getting your protein intake and cutting back on the carbs to support your fat loss and weight loss goals — that’s a win in our book.
Beyond their excellent taste, Premier Protein Shakes are pretty nutritious, too. These shakes are protein-rich with 30 grams of milk protein and low-carb with only 1 gram of sugar. They contain a vitamin and mineral blend consisting of 24 different micronutrients. They’re also well-suited for a variety of diets including gluten-free, keto, and kosher, but not for those who are lactose-intolerant since the protein source is milk protein.
The only downside with the formulation is its inclusion of low-grade filler ingredients like sunflower oil, soybean oil, cellulose gel, cellulose gum, carrageenan, and artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium. As a registered dietitian, I recommend limiting or avoiding low-grade fillers as much as possible, since they don’t contribute any nutritional value like vitamins, minerals, or macronutrients. “I give this product’s nutrition stats 5 stars for the macro profile, 5 stars for micronutrient profile, but docking a star for including some artificial ingredients,” our tester states, giving this product an overall 4 out of 5 stars for nutritional quality.
While the texture is smooth and creamy without being too thick, some customer reviews note that milk protein solids can settle at the bottom. We recommend refrigerating and shaking your Premier Protein Shake before consuming it to avoid the clumps (and check the expiration date to make sure the product isn’t expired). The price is on the higher side of the picks on our list, but we think these shakes are well worth the cost if taste is important to you.
Best Organic Protein Shake for Weight Loss: Orgain Organic Protein Shake
Orgain Organic Protein Shakes provide 26 grams of USDA-certified organic, non-GMO protein with a creamy, rich consistency, and only 1 gram of sugar. With protein sourced from grass-fed cows, are an excellent choice for supporting general wellness and weight loss goals while minimizing exposure to pesticides and GMOs.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $3.58 to $3.92
- Protein Source: Grass-fed organic milk protein concentrate, organic whey protein concentrate
- Protein Per Serving: 26 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 160 calories
- Third-Party Testing: USDA Organic
- Available Flavors: Creamy Chocolate, Vanilla Bean
Pros
- Certified USDA Organic, non-GMO
- 26 grams of protein
- Creamy, rich consistency
Cons
- Low-grade filler ingredients
- Contains sugar alcohol erythritol
- Expensive
There are very few organic protein supplement options out there that aren’t plant-based and contain enough protein to support your weight loss goals. Fortunately, Orgain Organic Protein Shakes are certified USDA Organic and non-GMO, with organic milk protein and whey protein concentrate as their protein source. If you choose to minimize your exposure to pesticides, GMOs, hormones, and antibiotics, we think an organic protein shake like Orgain ranks among the best organic protein powders and shakes out there.
This shake boasts 26 grams of protein with only 1 gram of sugar. The complete protein blend found in this protein shake contains milk and whey protein, and the latter can help build muscle mass while supporting your weight loss goals. (6) The protein also comes from grass-fed cows. However, where we deducted points was in its low-grade filler ingredients and sugar alcohol. This product contains erythritol, a sugar alcohol. In high quantities, sugar alcohol can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. (13)
As a registered dietitian, I typically recommend avoiding or limiting sugar alcohol in products when you’re trying to lose weight, so that you don’t feel so gassy and bloated. Plus, gastrointestinal symptoms may cause fluctuations in your weight and water retention, which makes it hard to understand how much weight you’ve really lost.
One of the other great aspects of this protein shake is its creamy and rich consistency. 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. You certainly don’t get that kind of texture with a protein powder unless you mix it with whole milk, which I never do.” It also received a rating of 4 out of 5 for its splendid taste. “I tried the chocolate and it was pretty good – a little bit of an aftertaste but it’s not bad, honestly,” our tester says.
While the price tag on this product is a little higher, we get it since it’s certified USDA Organic. Orgain Organic Protein Shake is a high-protein, creamy, and nutritious option for organic lifestyles for those on a cut.
Best Vegan Protein Shake for Weight Loss: OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shake
OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shakes are vegan-friendly, with 32 grams of complete protein from peas and pumpkin seeds, making them a nutritionally complete option. Additionally, these shakes are free from common allergens, GMOs, and artificial ingredients, providing a clean and healthy choice for those following a vegan diet.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $3.45 to $3.92
- Protein Source: Pea Protein, Organic Pumpkin Seed Protein
- Protein Per Serving: 32 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 200 calories
- Third-Party Testing: Non-GMO Verified
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, No Nut Buttercup
Pros
- 100 percent plant-based, non-GMO, vegan protein powder
- 32 grams of complete protein
- Zero grams of sugar
- Contains superfoods and prebiotics
- Free from common allergens and GMOs
Cons
- No artificial ingredients
- Slightly watery texture
- A bit expensive
Plant-based diets can help support weight loss and reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol. (14) If you’re following a vegan diet, whether for health benefits, or environmental or ethical reasons, you may want to try OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shakes. They’re made with 100 percent plant-based protein, a greens superfood blend, and prebiotics, which our gut bacteria use to digest. (15) Given the clean ingredients, these vegan shakes are also completely free from common allergens, gluten, GMOs, and artificial ingredients.
This nutritionally complete vegan formulation contains 32 grams of protein from peas and pumpkin seeds. Due to the mixed sources of plant protein, this protein source is considered a complete protein containing all the essential amino acids, which is particularly important for a vegan diet since most complete proteins are from animal-based sources. (16) These shakes also contain zero grams of sugar, which is beneficial when trying to lose weight — the USDA recommends limiting added sugar intake to less than 10 percent of your daily calories. (2) Overall, our product tester rated this product’s nutritional profile a 4 out of 5 stars.
Even the best vegan protein powders are also often noted for their poor texture, but these shakes have a decent texture without the grittiness that powders have. “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.
While there aren’t too many vegan options out there that contain complete proteins, OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shakes offer 32 grams of complete protein from plant-based sources with even more benefits to tout. We think they’re worth every penny for vegan lifestyles.
Best Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Loss: Huel Ready-to-Drink
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. 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.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $4.42 to $5.54
- Protein Source: Pea Protein, Faba Bean Protein, Brown Rice Protein
- Protein Per Serving: 35 grams
- Calories Per Serving: 400 calories
- Third-Party Testing: No
- Available Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, Cinnamon Roll, Salted Caramel, Berry, Banana, Iced Coffee Caramel
Pros
- Ideal macronutrient profile and calories to replace meals
- Approved by registered dietitians and nutritionists
- Micronutrient blend
- 6 grams of dietary fiber
Cons
- Very thick texture
- Expensive, but cheaper than what a meal would cost
- Some filler ingredients
We know some people prefer to consume a protein shake as a meal replacement for the convenience factor. If so, we think Huel Ready-to-Drink Protein Shakes might be one of the best meal replacements to consider. Instead of only being high in protein, these shakes contain 17 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbs, and 35 grams of protein for a richer macronutrient profile. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, so these shakes can help you feel fuller for longer periods as a meal replacement. (5)
To help you round out your full nutrition needs, these shakes contain a micronutrient blend with 27 essential vitamins and minerals. As a registered dietitian, I love that this protein shake goes above and beyond just protein — it serves as a multivitamin in addition to meeting your full macronutrient needs.
They also contain 6 grams of dietary fiber. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend at least 31 to 34 grams of fiber for men and 22 to 28 grams of fiber for women to support regularity and digestion, so consuming these shakes alongside high-fiber foods can help you meet your fiber intake. (2) Moreover, fiber can help you stay fuller for longer, which is helpful when you are trying to lose weight. (17) While these shakes do contain some filler ingredients like sunflower lecithin and gellan gum, they’re still very nutritionally sound.
We think the price is a little bit on the higher side with only a rating of 3 out of 5 from our tester, though we think it could be worth it if you’re replacing a full meal with this protein shake — which is what it’s designed for. Our tester states, “I think it’s important to keep in mind that this is a complete meal replacement drink high in calories, all macros, and micros, so the price is easier to justify. Just know that this isn’t the best option for someone looking for JUST protein.”
One of the few downsides is that these shakes have a very thick texture. “I found the texture to be SUPER thick, to the point where your mouth is sticky,” our tester says. We recommend refrigerating it and shaking it vigorously before you drink it. Overall, we think these shakes are nutritionally complete and well-suited as meal replacements beyond protein.
Benefits of Protein Shakes for Weight Loss
Incorporating protein shakes into your diet offers multiple benefits for weight loss and overall fitness. These shakes can enhance satiety, support muscle building, provide convenience, and help meet your daily protein needs efficiently and effectively.
- Supports satiety: Out of all three macronutrients, protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which can help you lose weight. (5) By incorporating protein shakes, you’ll feel less hungry while dropping the pounds.
- Helps meet your protein needs: Protein shakes can help supplement your protein intake without having to eat a lot more food. A study found that supplementing with protein can help reduce body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body fat in healthy individuals. (18)
- Helps build muscle: Retaining lean body mass is important on your weight loss journey to help achieve a leaner, toned appearance by focusing on fat loss. Increasing your protein intake by drinking more protein shakes can help build muscle and promote muscle recovery by reversing the muscle damage caused by exercise. (6)(19)
- Convenience: Protein shakes, especially the pre-mixed variety, can be convenient for taking on-the-go or when you’re in a time crunch. You can drink them as a post-workout snack or as a meal replacement for those mornings when you have no time to cook breakfast.
How Much Do The Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss Cost?
According to our research, protein shakes for weight loss can cost anywhere from $1.66 to $9.00. 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.
Best Protein Shake for Weight Loss Overall | Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake | $1.86 |
Best Protein Shake Powder for Weight Loss Overall | Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate | $1.80 to $2.00 |
Best Keto Protein Shake for Weight Loss | Ample Low-Carb Meal Shake | $4.48 to $9.00 |
Best Budget Protein Shake for Weight Loss | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Shake | $1.66 to $1.75 |
Best Tasting Protein Shake for Weight Loss | Premier Protein Shake | $2.23 to $2.35 |
Best Organic Protein Shake for Weight Loss | Orgain Organic Protein Shake | $3.58 to $3.92 |
Best Vegan Protein Shake for Weight Loss | OWYN Pro Elite Plant Protein Shake | $3.45 to $3.92 |
Best Meal Replacement Protein Shake for Weight Loss | Huel Ready-to-Drink | $4.42 to $5.54 |
What to Consider Before Buying Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss
While we’ve curated some of the best protein shakes for weight loss, we recognize you may have personalized needs or have other options to consider depending on where you shop. Here are some considerations when you’re evaluating a protein shake that isn’t on our review.
Protein Source and Type
According to the USDA Dietary Guidelines, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for a sedentary adult is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, but this amount can be higher for active individuals seeking to gain lean muscle. (2)(3)
When choosing a protein shake, be sure to look for a protein shake that contains at least 20 grams of protein. It should also have a complete source of protein, whether whey, whey isolate, or a plant-based protein blend.
Calorie Content
When you’re trying to lose weight, you will likely want to look for a lower-calorie protein shake. This is important since achieving a calorie deficit is necessary for weight loss. 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. However, if you plan on replacing full meals with a protein shake, you may be able to choose a higher-calorie option.
Clean Ingredients
Look for an ingredient list that is simple and clean. Many protein shakes contain fillers, which are any ingredients that aren’t associated with the protein source but also don’t add any value. Examples include preservatives and emulsifiers (like soy lecithin) to achieve a creamier texture.
We also recommend avoiding artificial ingredients whenever possible because natural ingredients provide essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber that artificial ingredients lack in comparison.
Taste
“Diet” foods can often taste bland – but it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s important to find a delicious protein shake for weight loss that you’ll enjoy taking so that it can seamlessly fit into your diet. When in doubt, you can always look for single protein shakes or a sampler pack to try out different flavors before committing to a bigger pack of protein shakes.
Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss FAQs
What is the best protein shake for weight loss?
The best protein shakes for weight loss are higher in protein content and lower in carbs, calories, and added sugar. Adequate protein content is important when you’re trying to lose weight since protein is the macronutrient that best supports satiety. (5) We recommend the Quest Nutrition Ready to Drink Protein Shake, which contains 30 grams of protein, 170 calories, 4 grams of carbs, and 1 gram of added sugar.
Are protein shakes for weight loss healthy?
Protein shakes for weight loss can be healthy, although the definition of what is considered healthy can be subjective. While many of the options in our review aren’t substitutes for whole foods, they could be considered healthy because they are nutrient-dense and have balanced macronutrient profiles. We evaluated and included protein shakes that are high in protein, low in carbs, low in calories, and contain dietary fiber.
What is the best time to drink protein shakes for weight loss?
There isn’t a specific time designated for drinking protein shakes for weight loss. Rather, achieving a consistent calorie deficit can help support weight loss — each pound of weight loss requires a 3,500-calorie deficit. 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. (20) Studies also show that casein taken at nighttime could also specifically help with muscle recovery. (21)
References
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- U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition.
- Nunes, E. A., Colenso-Semple, L., McKellar, S. R., Yau, T., Ali, M. U., Fitzpatrick-Lewis, D., Sherifali, D., Gaudichon, C., Tomé, D., Atherton, P. J., Robles, M. C., Naranjo-Modad, S., Braun, M., Landi, F., & Phillips, S. M. (2022). Systematic review and meta-analysis of protein intake to support muscle mass and function in healthy adults. Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 13(2), 795–810.
- Calorie Deficit: What To Know. (2022). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 21, 2024, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/calorie-deficit
- Dhillon, J., Craig, B. A., Leidy, H. J., Amankwaah, A. F., Osei-Boadi Anguah, K., Jacobs, A., Jones, B. L., Jones, J. B., Keeler, C. L., Keller, C. E., McCrory, M. A., Rivera, R. L., Slebodnik, M., Mattes, R. D., & Tucker, R. M. (2016). The Effects of Increased Protein Intake on Fullness: A Meta-Analysis and Its Limitations. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 116(6), 968–983.
- Hulmi, J. J., Lockwood, C. M., & Stout, J. R. (2010). Effect of protein/essential amino acids and resistance training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy: A case for whey protein. Nutrition & Metabolism, 7, 51.
- Dos Santos, E. M., Moreira, A. S. B., Huguenin, G. V. B., Tibiriça, E., & De Lorenzo, A. (2023). Effects of Whey Protein Isolate on Body Composition, Muscle Mass, and Strength of Chronic Heart Failure Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Nutrients, 15(10), 2320.
- Scott, J. M., & Deuster, P. A. (2017). Ketones and Human Performance. Journal of Special Operations Medicine: A Peer Reviewed Journal for SOF Medical Professionals, 17(2), 112–116.
- Marcason W. (2004). What do “net carb”, “low carb”, and “impact carb” really mean on food labels?. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 104(1), 135.
- Mumme, K., & Stonehouse, W. (2015). Effects of medium-chain triglycerides on weight loss and body composition: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 115(2), 249–263.
- Li, Y., Hruby, A., Bernstein, A. M., Ley, S. H., Wang, D. D., Chiuve, S. E., Sampson, L., Rexrode, K. M., Rimm, E. B., Willett, W. C., & Hu, F. B. (2015). Saturated Fats Compared With Unsaturated Fats and Sources of Carbohydrates in Relation to Risk of Coronary Heart Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 66(14), 1538–1548.
- Salleh, S. N., Fairus, A. A. H., Zahary, M. N., Bhaskar Raj, N., & Mhd Jalil, A. M. (2019). Unraveling the Effects of Soluble Dietary Fibre Supplementation on Energy Intake and Perceived Satiety in Healthy Adults: Evidence from Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised-Controlled Trials. Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 8(1), 15.
- Mäkinen K. K. (2016). Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals. International Journal of Dentistry, 2016, 5967907.
- Wang, T., Masedunskas, A., Willett, W. C., & Fontana, L. (2023). Vegetarian and vegan diets: benefits and drawbacks. European Heart Journal, 44(36), 3423–3439.
- Davani-Davari, D., Negahdaripour, M., Karimzadeh, I., Seifan, M., Mohkam, M., Masoumi, S. J., Berenjian, A., & Ghasemi, Y. (2019). Prebiotics: Definition, Types, Sources, Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications. Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 8(3), 92.
- What Are Complete Proteins? (2022). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 21, 2024, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-i-need-to-worry-about-eating-complete-proteins
- Barber, T. M., Kabisch, S., Pfeiffer, A. F. H., & Weickert, M. O. (2020). The Health Benefits of Dietary Fibre. Nutrients, 12(10), 3209.
- Ambulkar, P., Hande, P., Tambe, B., Vaidya, V. G., Naik, N., Agarwal, R., & Ganu, G. (2023). Efficacy and safety assessment of protein supplement – micronutrient fortification in promoting health and wellbeing in healthy adults – a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Translational and Clinical Pharmacology, 31(1), 13–27.
- Pearson, A. G., Hind, K. & Macnaughton, L. S. (2023). The impact of dietary protein supplementation on recovery from resistance exercise-induced muscle damage: A systematic review with meta-analysis. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 77, 767–783.
- Zhou, H. H., Liao, Y., Zhou, X., Peng, Z., Xu, S., Shi, S., Liu, L., Hao, L., & Yang, W. (2023). Effects of Timing and Types of Protein Supplementation on Improving Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Performance in Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Network Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 34(1), 54–64.
- Kim J. (2020). Pre-sleep casein protein ingestion: new paradigm in post-exercise recovery nutrition. Physical Activity and Nutrition, 24(2), 6–10.