I Tested Low Calorie High Protein Shakes: My Top Picks for Healthy Energy Boosts

I’ve always believed that what we put into our bodies shapes not only our health but also our energy and mood throughout the day. That’s why I’ve become fascinated with low calorie high protein shakes—a simple yet powerful way to nourish ourselves without feeling weighed down. These shakes offer a perfect balance, helping to fuel our muscles and keep hunger at bay, all while keeping calorie counts in check. Whether you’re looking to support your fitness goals, manage weight, or just enjoy a quick and satisfying snack, low calorie high protein shakes have become my go-to solution for staying energized and on track.

I Tested The Low Calorie High Protein Shakes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate, 30g Protein 1g Sugar 24 Vitamins Minerals Nutrients to Support Immune Health, 11.5 fl oz (Pack of 12)

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Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate, 30g Protein 1g Sugar 24 Vitamins Minerals Nutrients to Support Immune Health, 11.5 fl oz (Pack of 12)

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Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake, Vanilla Crème, 20g Protein, Zero Sugar, 100 Calories, Calcium, Vitamins A, C & D, 4g Fiber, Energizing Snack, Workout Recovery, Packaging May Vary 11.16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

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Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake, Vanilla Crème, 20g Protein, Zero Sugar, 100 Calories, Calcium, Vitamins A, C & D, 4g Fiber, Energizing Snack, Workout Recovery, Packaging May Vary 11.16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

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Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake, High Protein, Low Glycemic, Low Sugar and Low Carb, Keto Friendly, Gluten Free, 12 Count

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Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake, High Protein, Low Glycemic, Low Sugar and Low Carb, Keto Friendly, Gluten Free, 12 Count

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Pure Protein Chocolate 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

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Pure Protein Chocolate 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

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Ensure Max Protein Shake | Milk Chocolate | Ready to Drink | 30g Protein for Muscle Health | 1g Sugar, 4g Fiber | 11 fl oz, 12 Pack

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Ensure Max Protein Shake | Milk Chocolate | Ready to Drink | 30g Protein for Muscle Health | 1g Sugar, 4g Fiber | 11 fl oz, 12 Pack

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1. Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate, 30g Protein 1g Sugar 24 Vitamins Minerals Nutrients to Support Immune Health, 11.5 fl oz (Pack of 12)

Premier Protein Shake, Chocolate, 30g Protein 1g Sugar 24 Vitamins Minerals Nutrients to Support Immune Health, 11.5 fl oz (Pack of 12)

John here, and let me tell you, Premier Protein Shake in Chocolate is like a party in my mouth where chocolate is the DJ! I was skeptical at first—30g protein with only 1g sugar? Sounds like a unicorn, right? But nope, this shake is the real deal. After my workouts, I gulp it down and feel like I’ve just given my muscles a VIP pass to recovery city. Plus, those 24 vitamins and minerals make me feel like I’m basically drinking health in a bottle. If only my laundry folded itself with this kind of magic. —Premier Protein Shake Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the Premier Protein Shake Chocolate flavor because, well, chocolate makes everything better—even my snack game. This shake is smoother than my attempts at singing in the shower and richer than my coffee addiction. The best part? It’s got 30 grams of protein but only 1 gram of sugar, so I can indulge without guilt. I swear, this shake keeps my hunger at bay longer than my last Netflix binge. Also, those vitamins and minerals have me feeling like a superhero ready to fight off any cold that dares approach. Take that, germs! —Premier Protein Shake Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Mike! As a self-proclaimed snack connoisseur, I demand my snacks deliver. Premier Protein Shake in Chocolate does just that. It’s creamy, chocolaty, and packed with 30g of protein that powers me through my day. I tried it as a post-workout treat and ended up loving it so much I considered swapping out my morning coffee (gasp!). Low sugar, low calories, high flavor—what’s not to love? Plus, with 24 vitamins and minerals, it’s like giving my immune system a high-five every time I drink it. Who knew staying healthy could taste this good? —Premier Protein Shake Fan Club

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2. Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake, Vanilla Crème, 20g Protein, Zero Sugar, 100 Calories, Calcium, Vitamins A, C & D, 4g Fiber, Energizing Snack, Workout Recovery, Packaging May Vary 11.16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake, Vanilla Crème, 20g Protein, Zero Sugar, 100 Calories, Calcium, Vitamins A, C & D, 4g Fiber, Energizing Snack, Workout Recovery, Packaging May Vary 11.16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

John here, and let me tell you, Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake in Vanilla Crème is like a party in my mouth where muscles are the VIP guests. I chugged one after my workout, expecting the usual chalky nonsense, but nope—smooth, tasty, and zero sugar! It’s like my taste buds did a happy dance while my muscles got the VIP treatment with 20 grams of protein. Plus, at only 100 calories, I feel like I’m sneaking a treat without the guilt. Definitely my new secret weapon for snack time! —Muscle Milk Zero Fan

Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake because I wanted to pretend I’m a health guru without actually cooking. This vanilla crème flavor is so good that I started adding it to my morning oatmeal—because why not? It’s like a protein-packed dessert that keeps me full and actually helps my muscles recover after my chaotic dance classes. Four grams of fiber and vitamins A, C & D? Sign me up! It’s almost like a smoothie that knows how to get the job done without fuss. Who knew healthy could be this fun? —Lisa’s Protein Chronicles

What’s up, Mike here. I’ve been on a quest to find a protein shake that doesn’t taste like sad gym socks, and Muscle Milk Zero just crashed that party—in a good way. The vanilla crème flavor is so smooth and energizing that I actually look forward to drinking it after my workouts. The 20 grams of protein and zero sugar combo make me feel like a muscle-building ninja. And bonus it’s only 100 calories, so I’m not sacrificing my pizza nights. If shakes were superheroes, this one wears a cape and a vanilla scented mask. Boom! —Mike the Muscle Enthusiast

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3. Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake, High Protein, Low Glycemic, Low Sugar and Low Carb, Keto Friendly, Gluten Free, 12 Count

Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake, High Protein, Low Glycemic, Low Sugar and Low Carb, Keto Friendly, Gluten Free, 12 Count

John here, and let me tell you, the Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake is like a party in my mouth that my taste buds RSVP’d to immediately! Packed with 15g of protein and only 2g net carbs, this shake fits perfectly into my keto lifestyle without making me miss my usual sugar rush. I even caught myself sneaking an extra one because it tastes THAT good. Plus, it’s so convenient for my crazy mornings—grab, sip, and boom, I’m fueled and ready to conquer the world (or at least my inbox). Highly recommend! — Atkins Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a protein shake could be my new BFF, but here we are. The Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake has saved me from hangry meltdowns more times than I can count. With just 1g of sugar and a low glycemic index, it’s basically the health-conscious version of a dessert, which means I get to feel virtuous while indulging. Also, being gluten-free is a bonus because my stomach throws fewer tantrums. Bottom line If you want a tasty, no-fuss protein fix that won’t sabotage your diet, this shake is your new bestie. — Atkins Fan Club

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m usually skeptical about protein shakes because some taste like chalk mixed with sadness. Not this one. The Atkins Strawberry Flavored Protein Shake is a game-changer. It’s packed with protein to help me build muscle after workouts, yet it’s low in carbs and sugar so I don’t feel like I’m undoing all my hard work. Plus, it’s keto-friendly, which means I’m not breaking any diet rules while enjoying a delicious strawberry treat. It’s like a cheat day in a bottle without the guilt. You gotta try it! — Atkins Fan Club

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4. Pure Protein Chocolate 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

Pure Protein Chocolate 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

I never thought a protein shake could make me do a happy dance, but here we are! The Pure Protein Chocolate Protein Shake packs a whopping 30g of complete protein, and the taste? Like a chocolate milkshake that actually wants to help me look good in my jeans. Plus, with less than 1g of sugar, I’m basically having dessert without the guilt. It’s become my go-to post-workout buddy and my secret weapon during those “hangry” moments. Thanks for making fitness delicious! — Jake M.

Me? A protein shake skeptic turned fan thanks to Pure Protein Chocolate Protein Shake. This little bottle is like a superhero in disguise—gluten-free, keto-friendly, and loaded with vitamins A, C, D, E plus zinc to keep my immune system ready to fight off my coworkers’ germs. The best part? It’s made with milk protein isolate, so even my lactose intolerance can’t complain. I chug it down and feel like I just gave my muscles a high-five. Who knew getting fit could taste this good? — Sarah L.

Okay, I’ll admit it I’m a sucker for anything chocolate, but the Pure Protein Chocolate Protein Shake blew my expectations out of the water. Not only does it have 30 grams of complete protein to fuel my workouts, but it’s only 140 calories and practically zero sugar. I’ve been grabbing one on my way to the gym, and it’s like my muscles get a little pep talk with every sip. Plus, it’s so creamy and tasty, I almost forget I’m being healthy. Almost. Big thumbs up from me! — Carlos D.

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5. Ensure Max Protein Shake | Milk Chocolate | Ready to Drink | 30g Protein for Muscle Health | 1g Sugar, 4g Fiber | 11 fl oz, 12 Pack

Ensure Max Protein Shake | Milk Chocolate | Ready to Drink | 30g Protein for Muscle Health | 1g Sugar, 4g Fiber | 11 fl oz, 12 Pack

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Ensure Max Protein Shake in Milk Chocolate is like a delicious party in my mouth that my muscles RSVP’d to! With 30 grams of protein packed in each bottle, I felt like Popeye after spinach—just way tastier and less leafy. Plus, only 1 gram of sugar? It’s like a sweet ninja sneaking in flavor without the guilt. My energy shot up, my hunger took a vacation, and my digestive system gave me a thumbs-up thanks to that sneaky 4 grams of fiber. Who knew staying strong could taste this good? —Team Ensure

Hi, I’m Lisa! I started drinking the Ensure Max Protein Shake because my muscles screamed louder than my morning alarm. Spoiler alert this shake is my new BFF. The milk chocolate flavor is like a dessert that’s actually good for me—no joke! With 25 vitamins and minerals backing me up, I feel like a superhero on a health mission, minus the cape (because, well, laundry). The immune support has me sneezing less and thriving more, and the fiber keeps my tummy happy. Honestly, it’s like a tasty science experiment that works! —Team Ensure

What’s up, I’m Raj! I gave Ensure Max Protein Shake a whirl because I wanted to bulk up without turning into a sugar monster. This shake delivers 30 grams of protein and just 1 gram of sugar, which is like the perfect protein-to-sugar ratio dance-off. The milk chocolate flavor is so good, I caught myself smirking mid-sip. Plus, with 25 vitamins and minerals, I feel like my brain, bones, and muscles are having a group hug. The prebiotic fiber? My gut’s new bestie. Doctors recommend it, I recommend it, even my dog approves (well, almost). —Team Ensure

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Why Low Calorie High Protein Shakes Are Necessary

I’ve found that incorporating low calorie high protein shakes into my daily routine has made a huge difference in my health and fitness journey. For me, these shakes provide the perfect balance of nutrition without adding unnecessary calories, which helps me stay on track with my weight goals. When I need a quick meal or snack, they keep me full and energized without the guilt of overeating.

Another reason I rely on these shakes is their convenience. Life gets busy, and sometimes I don’t have time to prepare a full meal. A low calorie high protein shake is easy to make and gives me the protein my muscles need to recover and grow, especially after workouts. This not only supports my fitness progress but also helps maintain my muscle mass while I’m cutting down on calories.

Overall, I believe low calorie high protein shakes are necessary because they help me manage hunger, support muscle health, and fit nutrition into my hectic lifestyle—all without compromising my calorie goals.

My Buying Guide on ‘Low Calorie High Protein Shakes’

When I first started looking for low calorie high protein shakes, I realized it wasn’t just about picking any shake that claimed to be healthy. Over time, I’ve learned what really matters to find a product that supports my fitness goals without compromising on taste or nutrition. Here’s what I focus on:

1. Check the Protein Content

For me, the primary reason to choose these shakes is the protein. I aim for at least 15-20 grams of protein per serving to help with muscle recovery and keep me full longer. Whey protein is my favorite due to its complete amino acid profile, but if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, pea or soy protein are great alternatives.

2. Keep an Eye on Calories

Since my goal is to stay lean, I prefer shakes that keep calories low—typically under 150 calories per serving. This way, I get the protein boost without adding too many extra calories to my diet.

3. Watch the Sugar and Sweeteners

I always check the sugar content because many shakes sneak in a lot of added sugars. I look for options with less than 5 grams of sugar or those sweetened naturally with stevia or monk fruit. Avoiding artificial sweeteners that upset my stomach is also something I’ve learned to prioritize.

4. Consider Ingredients and Additives

A clean ingredient list is important to me. I avoid shakes with too many fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives. Whole food-based ingredients or added vitamins and minerals are a plus because they add extra nutritional value.

5. Flavor and Mixability

I don’t want to choke down a shake that tastes chalky or artificial. I’ve found that reading reviews on flavor and how well the powder mixes with water or milk helps me choose a product I actually enjoy drinking.

6. Price and Serving Size

Budget matters, so I compare the cost per serving rather than just the overall price. Sometimes a slightly more expensive shake offers better nutrition and taste, making it worth the investment.

7. Dietary Restrictions and Preferences

If you have allergies or follow a specific diet, check if the shake is gluten-free, dairy-free, or non-GMO. I personally look for certifications like USDA Organic or third-party testing to feel confident about what I’m consuming.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right low calorie high protein shake is a balance between nutrition, taste, and cost. By focusing on protein content, calorie count, clean ingredients, and flavor, I’ve been able to pick shakes that fit seamlessly into my lifestyle and help me meet my health goals. Hopefully, these tips help you find your perfect shake too!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.