Ever wonder if you’re getting enough protein during pregnancy? It’s a common question for expectant mothers, and for good reason! Protein is like a building block for your baby’s growth and your own body’s amazing changes. But stepping into the world of pregnancy protein shakes can feel like navigating a maze. So many brands, so many ingredients – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure if you’re picking the best option for you and your little one.
Choosing the right protein shake shouldn’t add stress to your pregnancy journey. You want something that’s safe, effective, and actually tastes good! That’s where we come in. In this post, we’ll break down what makes a pregnancy protein shake truly beneficial, what to look out for, and even share some tips for making them a delicious part of your day. Get ready to feel confident and informed about fueling your pregnancy!
Top Pregnancy Protein Shakes Recommendations
No. 1
Ritual Prenatal Vegan Protein Powder - 20g Pea Protein and Choline to Support Pregnancy, Postpartum, Lactation and Lean Muscle* - Tested for Heavy Metals - Sugar Free** - Non-GMO - Vanilla - 1 Lbs
- THE FIRST PROTEIN POWDER OF ITS KIND: with key nutrients to support mom and baby during pregnancy and postpartum. Essential Protein Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum is the clean, traceable plant-based protein with an excellent source of Choline to help support new nutrient needs during pregnancy, postpartum, and lactation. Each serving provides 20g of protein, 0g of sugar, and 250mg of Choline.*
- DELICIOUS FLAVOR EXPERIENCE: Layers of sweet vanilla, subtle nuances of caramel and hints of spice make Essential Protein Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum fit to shake up your every day. It’s smooth and delicious with zero chalkiness. It has no Stevia or sugar alcohols, and no aftertaste.
- MADE TRACEABLE: Our world-class scientists scoured the globe for high quality ingredients when formulating Essential Protein Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum. Our plant-based formula includes pea protein from regeneratively farmed peas grown in the USA to help build lean muscle and support bone health and satiety, and Choline from Missouri, made using nature-identical tartaric acid to support a growing baby’s neurodevelopment.*
- CLEAN FORMULA: Essential Protein Daily Shake Pregnancy & Postpartum contains 8 premium, non-GMO ingredients. It’s vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and formulated without GMOs, stevia, sugar alcohols, and artificial colors or sweeteners. Not a reduced calorie food
- RIGOROUSLY TESTED & TRUSTED BY MOMS: Essential Protein is Informed Sport Certified and it’s also the first plant-based protein to earn the Informed Protein Verification. Every batch is rigorously tested for heavy metals and free from 250+ banned substances. It meets the highest quality standards for even the world’s pickiest parents.
No. 2
Pink Stork Pregnancy & Postpartum Protein Powder for Women, 20g Whey & Collagen, Prenatal & Breastfeeding Protein Shake Mix for Energy, Recovery & Hydration, Chocolate, 15 Servings
- Pregnancy + Postpartum Protein Powder for Women: Specially formulated for expecting and new moms, this 20 g whey + collagen protein blend supports nutritional needs for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery. A daily protein shake that fuels energy and hydration.
- Postpartum Recovery Drink with Electrolytes: Includes hydrating electrolytes to help replenish nutrients after pregnancy. A clean protein powder for women that fits into prenatal and postpartum wellness plans for balanced hydration, daily comfort, and lactation support.
- Chocolate Protein Shake for Breastfeeding Moms: Enjoy a smooth, rich chocolate flavor that mixes instantly into water or milk. Perfect for on-the-go nutrition, supporting hydration and energy through every stage of motherhood.
- Clean Collagen + Whey Protein Formula: Made with premium ingredients you can trust—non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from artificial flavors. A pregnancy-friendly protein powder to support wellness from prenatal through postpartum and beyond.
- Trusted Women-Owned Brand: After overcoming health complications, our Founder + CEO, Amy Suzanne Upchurch, felt called to create a better standard of care for women. As an Integrative Health Coach, she is passionate about whole-body wellness that honors both faith and science. Pink Stork is built on faith-guided values, science-informed development, and a deep commitment to supporting women through every season of life. Pair this protein with Pink Stork's Total Prenatal or Total Postnatal for balanced nutritional support through pregnancy and postpartum.
No. 3
Boobie Body Superfood Protein Pregnancy and Postpartum Meal Replacement Shake, Chocolate Bliss Flavor | 19g Protein | Safe for Lactation & Motherhood | Organic, Vegan, Zero Sugar, 1 Tub (20 Servings)
- Fuel your day with 19g of clean, plant-based protein, nine organic superfoods, only 1 net carb, zero sugar, and 1,000 IU of Vitamin D. This vegan protein powder is designed for busy women who want real nourishment in every scoop. Safe as a pregnancy protein powder, ideal as a breastfeeding protein shake, and perfect for postpartum recovery. A delicious, low-carb, zero-sugar protein powder made for motherhood.
- Power Mama Needs, Taste Mama Loves: Whether you're nurturing a pregnancy bump, breastfeeding your little one, or running after a toddler, our protein shakes are brimming with superfoods like Moringa and Turmeric to keep you energized and healthy. Did we mention it comes in a delicious Chocolate Bliss flavor?
- Clean & Trusted by Moms In Every Stage: Bobbie Body protein powder are organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and made without GMOs, giving you peace of mind and the cleanest protein superfood powder for every stage of motherhood.
- Crafted by Experts: Our prenatal and postpartum care protein shake was crafted by Wendy Colson, registered nurse (RN), International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and mother of three, to make meal replacement for weight management and post-workout recovery even easier for every mama.
- Explore More Boobie-Approved Superfoods for Supermamas: From lactation supplement bars to daily vitamins, Boobie has much more superfood-powered goodness and mom postpartum essentials in store to support your journey through motherhood. Find your faves today so you can seize every moment with joy and vitality.
No. 4
Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, 30g Protein, No Added Sugar, 24 Vitamins & Minerals to Support Immune Health, 11 fl oz, 12 Pack
- Indulge in the smooth and creamy chocolate and peanut butter flavor; Winner of American Masters of Taste Gold Medal for SUPERIOR TASTING ready-to-drink protein beverages.
- 30g of protein to help curb your hunger, as a mid-day snack or for post workout recovery; includes all essential amino acids.
- 24 Vitamins and Minerals: Support a healthy immune system as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle (Antioxidants Vitamins C and E plus Zinc), 50 percent daily value of calcium and 30 percent daily value of Vitamin D to help maintain healthy bones.
- Guilt free indulgence: 1g Sugar, 6g Carbs, 160 Calories and Low Fat; Gluten Free, Keto and Bariatric Friendly.
- Try all six (6) delicious smooth and creamy flavors in our 11oz TetraPak size: Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Cafe Latte, Strawberries & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter.
No. 5
Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate, 30g Protein, No Added Sugar, 24 Vitamins & Minerals to Support Immune Health, 11.5 fl oz, 12 Pack
- HIGH PROTEIN & NO ADDED SUGAR: 30g of protein and no added sugar per shake fuels your body so you can take on the day
- ON-THE-GO: Ready-to-drink and portable for mornings, workouts, afternoon snacks, or anytime you want a flavorful shake that fits into your lifestyle
- SMOOTH DELICIOUSNESS: Creamy, delightful flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, and Café Latte, so you can sweeten your day and savor the moments that fuel your lifestyle
- SWEETEN YOUR JOURNEY: Be part of a movement that makes everyday living flavorful and joyful. Premier Protein is about embracing life and feeling your best
- NUTRITION YOU CAN TRUST: Gluten-free and packed with 24 essential vitamins and minerals, so every sip supports your lifestyle and adds a boost of goodness to your daily routine
No. 6
Nurri - 30g Protein Ultra Filtered Milk Shake – Chocolate - Lactose Free, Low Sugar, 150 Calories, 10 Vitamins and Minerals - 11 fl oz, 10 Cans
- DELICIOUSLY PROTEIN PACKED — Nurri Chocolate shakes up your routine by offering 30g of ultra-filtered milk protein. With a creamy flavor, no powders or lactose, only 1g of sugar and 150 calories. The core of Nurri is a healthy and tasty drink all in one!
- ULTRA-FILTERED: THE ULTIMATE PROTEIN CHOICE – In addition to removing sugar and water, ultra-filtration produces higher levels of concentrated protein, calcium, and other naturally present nutrients. Ultra-filtration also makes Nurri lactose-free and easier to digest.
- MADE WITH REAL MILK - Made with lactose free Kosher certified dairy Nurri protein drinks are power packed with 10 essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Vitamin A, Magnesium, Zinc and Selenium. Each can contains high-quality protein.
- A BETTER BEV ANYTIME - Whether it's your breakfast boost, daily macros, or post workout recovery, Nurri in a shelf stable can is ready to drink anytime
- IT’S RECYLABLE - Nurri’s cans are made from infinitely recyclable aluminum - making it a fair choice in a sea of plastic.
No. 7
Premier Protein Shake, Vanilla, 30g Protein, No Added Sugar, 24 Vitamins & Minerals to Support Immune Health, 11 fl oz, 12 Pack
- Classic and oh-so-dreamy vanilla flavor that tastes like vanilla wafers; Winner of American Masters of Taste Gold Medal for SUPERIOR TASTING ready-to-drink protein beverages.
- 30g of protein to help curb your hunger, as a mid-day snack or for post workout recovery; includes all essential amino acids.
- 24 Vitamins and Minerals: Support your immune health (Antioxidants Vitamins C, D and E + Zinc and Magnesium), 50% of daily value of calcium to help maintain bone health.
- Guilt free indulgence: 1g Sugar, 4g Carbs, 160 Calories and Low Fat; Gluten Free, Keto and Bariatric Friendly.
- Try all six (6) delicious smooth and creamy flavors in our 11oz TetraPak size: Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Cafe Latte, Strawberries & Cream, Chocolate Peanut Butter.
No. 8
Pure Protein Strawberry Protein Shake, 30g Complete Protein, Ready to Drink and Keto-Friendly, Vitamins A, C, D, and E plus Zinc to Support Immune Health, 11oz Bottles, 12 Pack
- HIGH PROTEIN, LOW SUGAR(1), GREAT TASTE. Enjoy this delicious low-fat, non-GMO shake with 30g of complete protein per serving to support your muscle strength; gluten-free and just 140 calories, these RTDs include 24 added vitamins and minerals—including vitamins A, C, D, and E plus Zinc to support immune health—but less than 1g of sugar
- 30G OF COMPLETE PROTEIN. Not all protein sources are complete protein; Pure Protein’s 30g of quality protein per serving help you achieve your fitness goals by providing the building blocks your muscle tissue needs to grow and recover
- MADE WITH MILK PROTEIN ISOLATE, HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE AND SUITABLE FOR THOSE WITH LACTOSE INTOLERANCE.(2) A complete protein with all nine essential amino acids for optimal muscle support; Milk Protein Isolate is also ultra-filtered, which means you get more protein with fewer calories and less sugar. Note: Do not use in diets supplying less than 400 calories per day without medical supervision
- KETO-FRIENDLY FOR A HEALTHY LIFE.(3) Pure Protein shakes are formulated for women and men on a mission to get fit; whether you're focused on muscle gain or getting lean, Pure Protein RTD shakes give you sustained energy to go for the gold
- STRAWBERRY MILKSHAKE FLAVOR. Shake up your pre- or post-workout with a delicious, easy protein shake; any time of day is right for a convenient, creamy way to fuel your fitness regimen
Choosing the Best Pregnancy Protein Shakes: Your Guide to a Healthy Bump
Pregnancy is a time of big changes, and your body needs extra good stuff to grow a healthy baby and support you. Protein is super important! It helps build your baby’s body and keeps you feeling full and energized. But sometimes, it’s hard to get enough protein from food alone. That’s where pregnancy protein shakes come in! They can be a tasty and easy way to get that extra boost.
What to Look For in a Pregnancy Protein Shake
When you’re picking out a protein shake, think about these things:
Key Features to Look For
- High Protein Content: Look for shakes that offer at least 20 grams of protein per serving. This gives you a good amount to help with your baby’s growth and your own needs.
- Essential Nutrients: Many pregnancy shakes are packed with other vitamins and minerals important for pregnancy, like folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA. These can help prevent birth defects and support your baby’s brain development.
- Easy to Digest: Pregnancy can sometimes upset your stomach. Choose shakes made with ingredients that are gentle on your tummy.
- Good Taste: Let’s be honest, you want something you’ll actually enjoy drinking! Many brands offer different flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or even berry.
- Low Sugar: Too much sugar isn’t great for you or your baby. Check the nutrition label and pick shakes with minimal added sugars.
Important Materials (Ingredients)
The ingredients are what make your shake healthy and safe.
- Protein Source: Common protein sources include whey (from milk), casein (also from milk, digests slower), pea protein, rice protein, or soy protein. Whey is a complete protein, meaning it has all the building blocks your body needs. Plant-based options are great if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or have dairy sensitivities.
- Added Vitamins and Minerals: Look for shakes that include folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and DHA. These are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
- Sweeteners: Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are better choices than artificial sweeteners. Some shakes use a small amount of sugar.
- Thickeners and Emulsifiers: Ingredients like xanthan gum or lecithin help make the shake smooth and creamy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Improved Quality:
- Third-Party Testing: Brands that have their products tested by independent labs ensure they are pure and contain what they say they do. This is a big plus for quality.
- Natural Ingredients: Shakes made with fewer artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives are generally better.
- Transparency: Companies that are open about where their ingredients come from and their manufacturing processes offer higher quality.
- Reduced Quality:
- Excessive Added Sugars: This can lead to unwanted weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
- Artificial Ingredients: Some people are sensitive to artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors.
- Low Protein Content: If a shake doesn’t have enough protein, it won’t provide the benefits you need.
- Allergens: Be mindful of common allergens like dairy, soy, or gluten if you have sensitivities.
User Experience and Use Cases
Pregnancy protein shakes can be used in a few different ways:
- Morning Boost: If you wake up feeling nauseous or just not hungry, a quick shake can be an easy way to get nutrients in.
- Snack Time: Instead of reaching for chips, a protein shake can keep you feeling full until your next meal and provide important nutrients.
- Post-Workout Recovery: If you’re still active during pregnancy, a shake can help your muscles recover.
- Convenience: For busy moms-to-be, a shake is a fast and simple way to meet your nutritional needs when you don’t have time to cook.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Protein Shakes
Q: Are pregnancy protein shakes safe for my baby?
A: Yes, when you choose shakes specifically made for pregnancy and follow the serving suggestions, they are generally safe and beneficial for your baby’s development.
Q: How much protein do I need during pregnancy?
A: Most pregnant women need around 70-100 grams of protein per day, depending on their activity level and stage of pregnancy. Your doctor can give you a more specific recommendation.
Q: Can I drink regular protein shakes during pregnancy?
A: It’s best to stick to protein shakes formulated for pregnancy. Regular shakes might not have the specific vitamins and minerals you need, and some could contain ingredients not recommended during pregnancy.
Q: What if I have morning sickness? Can I still drink protein shakes?
A: Absolutely! Many women find that cold, simple protein shakes can be easier to tolerate than solid food when they have morning sickness. Start with small sips.
Q: Can protein shakes help with weight gain during pregnancy?
A: Protein shakes provide nutrients that support healthy growth for your baby and can help you gain weight appropriately. They are not meant for excessive weight gain.
Q: What are the best protein sources for pregnancy shakes?
A: Whey, casein, pea, rice, and soy proteins are good choices. Look for shakes with a complete protein source or a blend that provides all essential amino acids.
Q: How often should I drink a pregnancy protein shake?
A: This depends on your diet and your doctor’s advice. Often, one shake a day as a snack or part of a meal is recommended.
Q: Can I make my own pregnancy protein shake?
A: Yes, you can! Blend fruits, vegetables, a healthy protein source (like Greek yogurt or protein powder), and a liquid base like milk or water. Just make sure all ingredients are safe for pregnancy.
Q: What if I’m lactose intolerant?
A: Look for pregnancy protein shakes that use plant-based proteins like pea, rice, or soy, or those made with lactose-free whey protein.
Q: When should I start drinking pregnancy protein shakes?
A: You can start drinking them at any point during your pregnancy, especially if you find it hard to get enough protein from your regular diet.