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The Best Protein Shakes for Seniors and Older Adults

Updated By the HealthWorld editorial teamHow we pick

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Top picks at a glance

  1. 1
    Ensure Max Protein Shake

    Best overall

    Ensure Max Protein Shake

    Protein 30 g · Sugar 1 g

  2. 2
    Premier Protein Protein Shake

    Best everyday carton

    Premier Protein Protein Shake

    Protein 30 g · Calories 160

  3. 3
    Fairlife Core Power Protein Shake

    Best lactose-free

    Fairlife Core Power Protein Shake

    Protein 24 g · Calories 130

See all 5 picks and why ↓

Keeping muscle as we get older takes enough protein and regular strength work, and a ready-to-drink shake is the easiest way to add 25–30 g at once — no scooping or blending. Ensure Max Protein and Premier Protein both list 30 g of protein and 1 g of sugar per carton; Fairlife Core Power is the lactose-free pick, and Isopure and Orgain are easy-to-digest powders.

Our picks

  1. Ensure Max Protein Shake

    #1Best overall

    Ensure Max Protein Shake

    30 g of protein, 1 g of sugar and 150 calories per 11 fl oz carton, plus 25 vitamins and minerals. Ready to drink, no mixing.

    Protein 30 gSugar 1 gAmazon Full facts →
  2. Premier Protein Protein Shake

    #2Best everyday carton

    Premier Protein Protein Shake

    30 g of protein, 1 g of sugar and 24 vitamins and minerals per shelf-stable carton, in a wide range of flavors.

    Protein 30 gCalories 160Amazon Full facts →
  3. Fairlife Core Power Protein Shake

    #3Best lactose-free

    Fairlife Core Power Protein Shake

    24 g of complete milk protein per bottle from lactose-free, ultra-filtered milk, ready to drink.

    Protein 24 gCalories 130Amazon Full facts →
  4. Isopure Zero Carb Whey Isolate

    #4Best powder

    Isopure Zero Carb Whey Isolate

    100% whey protein isolate with 25 g of protein and 0 g of carbs and sugar per serving. Isolate has very little lactose.

    Protein 25 gCarbs 0 gAmazon Full facts →
  5. Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based

    #5Best plant-based

    Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based

    21 g of protein from pea, brown rice and chia seed. USDA Organic, vegan, dairy-free and soy-free.

    Protein 21 gSource Plant blendAmazon Full facts →
Amazon's live top 100 in Protein

What to look for

Protein per serving
Look for 20–30 g per serving. Spreading protein across your meals — rather than eating most of it at dinner — helps you use it for muscle.
Sugar per serving
Ready-to-drink shakes vary a lot. Check the sugar line on the label, especially if you're watching your sugar intake.
Easy to digest
If dairy bothers you more than it used to, choose a lactose-free milk shake, a whey isolate or a plant blend.
Kidneys and medical diets
People with kidney disease often need to limit protein. Ask your doctor or a dietitian how much is right for you before adding shakes.

Frequently asked questions

How much protein do older adults need?

The general minimum is 0.8 g per kg of body weight a day, but many experts suggest about 1.0–1.2 g per kg for adults over 65, and more if you're very active. Your doctor or a dietitian can give you a personal number, especially if you have a kidney condition.

Are protein shakes good for seniors?

They're a convenient way to reach a daily protein target, especially when appetite is small. They add to meals; they don't replace a balanced diet.

Ensure Max Protein or Premier Protein?

Both list 30 g of protein and 1 g of sugar per carton. Ensure Max Protein adds 25 vitamins and minerals at 150 calories; Premier Protein lists 24 vitamins and minerals at 160 calories. Pick the flavor and texture you'll actually drink.

When should older adults drink a protein shake?

Many people have one at breakfast or as an afternoon snack to spread protein through the day. After a walk or a strength session works well too.

Sources