A few years ago it was only hard-core body builders who indulged in protein shakes. Now, with the rise of gym culture and greater understanding about the benefits of regular exercise for everyone, they’ve made it into the mainstream. After a workout, particularly those that are strength-based, protein shakes can aid muscle repair and recovery.
However, they’re not just for those who want to bulk up. Plenty of protein shakes can aid weight loss or simply contribute to a healthy balanced diet. After all, we all need plenty of protein and this is a convenient, tasty way to get it!
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Best protein shakes
Goddess Nutrition - Complete Lean Protein Shake for Women, 480g, £19.99
Opt for Goddess Nutrition shakes and you can choose from three delicious flavours that all support toning and muscle growth. Belgian Chocolate, Strawberry Shortcake and Vanilla Milkshake are all low in calories, fats and sugars - but they sure don't taste like it! Close your eyes and you'll think you're sipping on something that's much more calorific. Luckily, these shakes have all the flavour of indulgence without the negatives. Instead, they're packed full of goodness specifically formulated for women. As well as protein, these shakes have a delicate balance of vitamins and minerals that distinctly cater to women who lead active lifestyles.
Grenade Carb Killa Fudge Brownie High Protein Shake, x8, £14.99
This pre-made protein shake is the perfect solution for post work-out ease. You no longer need to faff around with powders before you hit the gym. Throw one of these Grenade Carb Killa shakes into your bag and you're all set! Each shake includes over 24g of protein and will curb your cravings whilst aiding muscle recovery. With six flavours to choose from - Banana Armour, Chocolate Mint, Cookies and Cream, Strawberries and Cream, White Chocolate and (our favourite) Fudge Brownie - you're bound to find one you love! These shakes are so yummy that you'll find yourself reaching for them whenever you need a pick-me-up, regardless of whether you've actually been working out.
USN Pure Vegan 100% Plant Protein Blend
Some protein powders can be packed with sugar, but not this one. The sugar-free blend means you won't be at risk of putting on weight while you're trying to up your protein intake. It's also soya-free and doesn't contain any nasty artificial flavours or colours. You'll get 23g of protein per serving and it's available in a selection of really authentic flavours - chocolate, strawberry and vanilla maple. The chocolate is divine, so we can't wait to try the rest!
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder, Delicious Strawberry, 2.27kg, £41.99
With a name like 'Gold Standard', this protein powder has a lot to live up to. Luckily, it seems to meet its own high standards as these shakes marry taste with quality nutrition. It has been designed to digest quickly and instantly aid muscle repair after a tough workout. Also full of amino acids, this powder makes the ultimate protein shake. By making yourself one of these bad boys every morning or 30 minutes before/after your workouts, you'll be promoting healthy and strong muscle growth. If this sounds like the shake for you then you'll be ecstatic to discover that it comes in 13 other flavours! We'll be trying the Cinnamon Bun, Rocky Road and Chocolate Mint flavours next...
PhD Diet Whey Power Banana
Looking for a protein shake that can aid your weight loss journey? This is the one for you! It can be used by men and women as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle so you can reach your goals in a healthy way. Enjoy before or after your workouts for an energy boost that will keep you going for hours. We haven't even told you the best bit yet! Although we love our protein shakes (obviously!) we appreciate that this powder is so versatile. It can be mixed with yoghurt, oats or pancake mix to level up your breakfast. We'll stick to the shakes but it's always good to know we've got options.
Vegan Protein Powder
Whatever your dietary requirements, we've got you covered! This protein powder is 100% gluten and soya free and, of course, vegan. After all, everyone needs protein and everyone should be able to enjoy delicious shakes with all the benefits. And you don't even need to be vegan to try this in your shakes! Plenty of non-vegans also vouch for this product as they find it can be a little more gentle on the stomach. So if you've had problems with protein shakes before, why not mix it up and give this one a try?
Nourish by Jane Clarke
While it isn't technically marketed as a protein shake, the Nourish range will give you a great dose of protein, along with vitamins and minerals if you're on a busy schedule and don't have time to grab dinner. It comes in four delicious flavours and contains up to 19g of protein per shake. They're perfect for when you need some extra nourishment or want a shake that's full of goodness, as they contain all natural and organic ingredients.