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Protein Drink Calories
High protein, often milk or plant-based, popular post-workout
In season: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
CALORIES
GI
POTASSIUM
FIBER
Quick answer
1 cup (medium) of Protein Drink (250 g) has 150 calories. That works out to 60 calories per 100 g. It contains 8.8 g of carbs, 21.3 g of protein, 3 g of fat and 1.3 g of fiber. Its 1.3 µg of B12 covers 52% of the Daily Value. Its glycemic index is 35 (low), so it raises blood sugar slowly.
What is Protein Drink?
A protein drink is a prepared beverage made by mixing protein powder into milk, water or a plant-based drink, or a ready-to-drink product sold in a bottle or carton. Depending on the recipe, its protein may come from dairy or plant sources; it is a versatile modern option rather than a dish with one particular place of origin.
Usually served cold, it can be thick and smooth, with a mild sweetness. People commonly have it after exercise, as a quick breakfast or between meals; adding fruit and blending it makes it more substantial. At 8.5 g of protein per 100 g, it offers a convenient way to add protein to your day. For a lighter drink, mix the powder with water or an unsweetened plant-based drink, and compare labels since recipes vary.
Protein Drink Nutrition Facts
Selected: 100 g
60
KCAL / 100G
Carbs
3.5g
· 1% DV
Protein
8.5g
· 17% DV
Fat
1.2g
· 2% DV
Fiber
0.5g
· 2% DV
DV is the share of the daily value covered, on a 2,000 kcal reference diet.
Calories come from: Carbs 24% · Protein 58% · Fat 18%
Protein Drink Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamins
B12
0.5µg · 21% DV
B2
0.18mg · 14% DV
B5
0.6mg · 12% DV
Biotin
2.5µg · 8% DV
Minerals
Calcium
120mg · 12% DV
Phosphorus
85mg · 12% DV
Zinc
1mg · 9% DV
Iodine
8µg · 5% DV
How Nutritious Is Protein Drink?
Nutrient density
High
How many vitamins, minerals and how much fiber this food carries per calorie. A high score means a lot of nutrition for few calories.
Satiety score
Medium
An EatBetter score computed from fiber, protein and calorie density. A high score means staying full longer on the same calories.
Both scores are calculated per 100 g and do not change with the selected portion. The satiety score is EatBetter's own calculation, not a clinical measure.
Protein Drink Glycemic Index
GLYCEMIC INDEX
GLYCEMIC LOAD
Accounts for portion size — a more realistic measure than GI alone.
How to Burn Off Protein Drink
To burn the 60 calories in 100 g:
🚶
Walking (5 km/h)
🏃
Running (8 km/h)
🚴
Cycling
🏊
Swimming
Times are calculated with the MET equation for a 70 kg adult. Actual burn varies with your weight, age and pace.
Is Protein Drink Processed?
NOVA 3
Processed
1. Unprocessed
2. Minimally Processed
3. Processed
4. Ultra-Processed
NOVA classifies foods into 4 groups by industrial processing. NOVA 1 (unprocessed) is the healthiest.
Does Protein Drink Contain Allergens?
Contains these allergens:
Which Diets Is Protein Drink Good For?
Vegan
— Not suitable
Vegetarian
✓ Suitable
Gluten-Free
— Not suitable
Dairy-Free
— Not suitable
Mediterranean
✓ Suitable
Paleo
— Not suitable
Whole30
— Not suitable
DASH
— Not suitable
Keto
— Not suitable
Low FODMAP
— Not suitable
Protein Drink Fat Profile
SATURATED
0.7g
MONOUNSATURATED
0.3g
POLYUNSATURATED
0.09g
Omega 6:3 ratio 2:1
Below the ideal 4:1 — a good omega balance.
Compare Protein Drink
Foods Similar to Protein Drink
Frequently Asked Questions About Protein Drink
When should you drink a protein drink after a workout?
You can have a protein drink after a workout, but it does not need to be consumed immediately. If your regular meals provide enough protein, there is no special benefit to rushing to drink one as soon as exercise ends.
Can a protein drink help with weight loss?
A protein drink may help you feel full and make a weight-loss plan easier to follow. Adding it on top of your usual meals can also add to your overall intake, so consider what food or drink it replaces.
Can a protein drink replace a meal?
A protein drink alone is usually not a complete meal. It may lack the fibre and range of nutrients found in a balanced plate, so if you use one as a meal, pair it with foods such as fruit and whole grains.
How do you make a protein drink at home without protein powder?
Blend milk or a fortified plant drink with Greek-style yogurt, oats, and fruit for a homemade protein drink without powder. The yogurt adds protein and the oats give it a thicker texture; adjust the liquid to your preferred consistency.
What is the difference between a ready-to-drink protein drink and a protein shake made with powder?
A ready-to-drink protein drink comes prepared, while a protein shake made from powder needs to be mixed with liquid. Ready-made drinks are convenient to carry; mixing your own gives you more control over the ingredients and consistency.
Do you need a protein drink after every workout?
No, a protein drink is not necessary after every workout. If meals and snacks already provide enough protein, an extra drink is optional; it can be useful when a convenient post-exercise snack fits your routine.
Can you drink a protein drink before bed?
Yes, you can drink a protein drink before bed. Choose an amount that feels comfortable, since a large drink close to bedtime may bother your digestion; it is not a sleep aid.
How long does a protein drink last after opening?
Refrigerate an opened protein drink and follow the storage instructions on its package. Do not leave it at room temperature for an extended period; the safe storage time varies between products and packaging.
Can you use water instead of milk in a protein drink?
Yes, you can mix a protein drink powder with water instead of milk. Water makes the drink lighter in texture, while milk or a plant-based drink makes it creamier; follow the powder’s mixing directions.
Can children have a protein drink?
Children generally do not need a protein drink if they eat a varied diet. These products are not automatically suitable for children, so ask a paediatrician or dietitian before using one to supplement a child’s diet.
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Nutrition data compiled from USDA FoodData Central and scientific sources.