Any age is a good age to start focusing on your overall health and fitness. And if you’ve landed on this page, you’re likely looking to increase your (or your loved one’s) protein intake, which is a good idea — assuming you cleared this dietary change with a doctor or healthcare provider. Older adults (65 years or older) tend to need more dietary protein than younger adults to promote recovery and maintain muscle mass to improve general functionality. (1)
Especially if your appetite has declined over the years, hitting your daily recommended dose of protein can be tough. Yes, you’ll want to try to get most of your intake from whole foods, but the convenience of protein shakes can’t be beaten. The best protein powders for seniors are tasty, easy to prepare, and won’t leave you feeling stuffed.
To help you decide on a protein powder, our team of experts — who have tested around 100 different protein formulations — have compiled a list of the 9 best protein powders for seniors. A convenient way to get enough protein at every age is closer than you think.
The 9 Best Protein Powders for Seniors
- Best Protein Powder for Seniors Overall: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 50+
- Best Tasting Protein Powder for Seniors: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Whey Protein Powder for Seniors: Legion Whey+
- Best Organic Protein Powder for Seniors: KOS Organic Plant Protein
- Best Protein Powder for Seniors for Muscle Gain: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
- Best Digesting Protein Powder for Seniors: Naked Nutrition Naked Egg
- Best Budget Protein Powder for Seniors: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
- Best Protein Powder for Seniors for Gut Health: Pure Food Plant-Based Protein Powder
- Best Pre-Made Protein Shake for Seniors: Premier Protein Shake
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Protein Powders for Seniors
Our team consists of certified personal trainers, competitive athletes, and fitness enthusiasts with decades of training under their belts. We’ve tested roughly 100 different protein drinks and powders from various brands. To determine which products are the best protein shakes for seniors, we use a multi-point supplement testing methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are the primary categories that contribute to our rankings.
- Protein Content: A 2016 article published in the journal Nutrients suggests that older adults (65 and older) should consume 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (0.54 to 0.9 grams per pound). (2) For this reason, we favor powders/shakes that pack at least 20 grams of protein per serving to help you meet those protein needs.
- Protein Source: Popular protein sources include whey, casein, quinoa, collagen, egg, and brown rice. We try to always offer a variety of choices to account for general preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Ingredient Quality: Our testers look for labels that contain a relatively short list of straightforward ingredients (like “whey concentrate” and “organic coconut milk”) and few to no preservatives or artificial ingredients. A 2024 review of meta-analyses in BMJ found that a diet higher in ultra-processed foods increased the risk of adverse health outcomes like death of any cause, and cardiometabolic and mental health disorders. (3)
- Taste: Different people like different flavors, and taste is generally subjective. Still, we’ve weighed our tester’s opinions on taste when deciding which proteins to include on this list. We’ve also selected certain brands that offer a variety of flavors to appeal to different palates.
- Texture: Some protein drinks have a gritty, clumpy texture due to poor solubility. Our list contains options that dissolve well for a smooth texture.
- Credibility: Supplements are not FDA-tested, so we strongly favor supplements that are tested by a third party. Third-party testing ensures the purity, quality, safety, and efficacy of a product and its ingredients.
- Price: The shakes on this list cost from $1.21 per serving to $2.60. We offer price options between the bottom and top end of our range to accommodate different budgets.
Best Protein Powder for Seniors Overall: Ritual Essential Daily Shake 50+
Ritual Essential Daily Shake 50+ isn't only about protein (though it's got 20 grams of that). You'll get a sustainably sourced, third-party tested, vegan muscle builder with an excellent dose of calcium, all specially formulated for people over 50.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.60
- Protein Source: Organic pea protein
- Protein Per Serving: 20 grams
- Servings Per Container: 15 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
- Available Flavors: Vanilla
Pros
- Sourced sustainably
- Gluten-free, “major allergen free,” non-GMO, and vegan
- Third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified
Cons
- Pricey at $2.60 per serving
- Only 15 servings per bag
- One flavor option
Some companies use trendy branding and marketing to promote a lackluster product, but Ritual has the goods. Its formula — specifically designed for people over 50 — is third-party tested and Informed Sport Certified, meaning it’s screened for over 250 substances banned by various sports federations (as well as heavy metals and microbes). They also use sustainably harvested vanilla bean extract from Madagascar and peas grown in the United States.
Speaking of peas, don’t be worried that this plant-based protein source doesn’t measure up to sources derived from dairy. Research has shown that pea protein is as effective in building muscle as whey protein. (4)
Protein isn’t all this shake has to offer. Over two-thirds of older men and women were at risk for inadequate calcium intake (5), and the Institute of Medicine suggests that men and women between 51 to 70 years get over 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. Ritual clears that bar easily, offering 1.5 grams (1,500 milligrams) of calcium HMB and 370 milligrams of plain old calcium.
Our tester tried the product in cold water, three juices (pineapple, lemon, and cranberry), cold brew, and chocolate milk. They score it a 5 out of 5 for solubility, reporting zero clumps or grit. As for taste, our tester was less impressed. They rate Ritual’s Essential Shake a 3 out of 5. “I had no clue what I was tasting until I looked at the package. It wasn’t that good,” the tester says, also reporting a strange and unidentifiable aftertaste. Ritual lists their only flavor as vanilla, “with subtle nuances of caramel and hints of spice.”
Essential Daily Shake 50+ is the most expensive pick on our list and contains our minimum suggested amount of protein. Especially depending on how much protein you need daily, you should look elsewhere if you’re mostly concerned with getting the most protein for your dollar (or dread protein shake aftertaste). That said, Ritual has developed a thoughtful formula that’s vegan and gluten-free, third-party tested, and safe for athletes to use.
Best-Tasting Protein Powder for Seniors: Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality powder with 28 grams of protein per serving, providing essential amino acids and BCAAs to support muscle growth. It’s Informed Choice certified, reassuring competitive athletes and other consumers that it’s free from banned substances and safe for consumption.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.79 to $1.99
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 28 grams
- Servings Per Container: 30 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
- Available Flavors: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Dark Chocolate, Unflavored, Strawberry Milkshake, Cinnamon French Toast, Mocha, Vanilla Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip, Blueberry Pancakes, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Oatmeal Cookie, Sugar Cookie, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Pros
- Available in 15 flavors
- Packs 28 grams of protein per serving
- Contains five ingredients
Cons
- It’s not vegan- or vegetarian-friendly
- Costs $2 per serving
- Some flavors are high in sodium
Transparent Labs usually ranks well on our protein powder-related round-ups; this list is no exception. This powder provides 28 grams of high-quality protein (from grass-fed cattle), contains no dyes or preservatives, is third-party tested, and is made with just 5 ingredients. Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois scores this overall formulation 4.5 out of 5.
Of course, none of that matters if you can’t bear the taste. But if you’re anything like our testers, that won’t be an issue.
“I’ve tried a lot of protein powders, and this is one of the best I’ve ever had,” says our tester, a certified personal trainer, who tried Peppermint Hot Chocolate (currently unavailable). They score it a 5 out of 5 for taste and solubility and suggested using a blender to mix this shake. The great taste didn’t come with any gastrointestinal side effects that often accompany protein powder, either: “There’s no, ‘It tastes great but I’m bloated.’ There’s only, ‘It tastes great.’”
Our other tester rates the Chocolate Milk flavor 4 out of 5 for taste, saying milk was the superior mixer over water, and reported some solubility issues. “The package said to mix it into 6 to 8 ounces of water. I followed the instructions and used a hand mixer, but my shake still had clumps.”
Bourgeois has two main gripes with this particular protein: the price and sodium content. She says: “Some flavors of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate contain up to 370 milligrams of sodium per scoop, which is higher than many other protein powders on the market. Those watching their sodium intake may be deterred by the amount of sodium per serving. Additionally, it’s a slightly hefty price tag at around $2 per serving.”
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate’s low-calorie count is something to consider depending on your goals. If you want to lose weight or maintain muscle, the formula will pack a lot of protein into your diet while leaving you with calories to spare. On the other hand, folks looking to bulk up may not find this shake calorically dense enough.
Read our full Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate review.
Best Whey Protein Powder for Seniors: Legion Whey+
An all natural, non-GMO, fat-free whey that's cheaper than many competitors, Legion Whey Isolate Protein Powder is made from 100 percent grass-fed whey protein isolate from sustainable dairy farms in Ireland. It's also higher in calcium compared to other powders on the market.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.79 to $1.99
- Protein Source: Truly Grass Fed
whey protein isolate - Protein Per Serving: 23 grams
- Servings Per Container: 30 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
- Available Flavors: Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Birthday Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Cereal, Cocoa Cereal, Cookies & Cream, Fruity Cereal, Honey Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Salted Caramel, Strawberry Banana, Unflavored, Vanilla
Pros
- Free of: GMOs, gluten, lactose, hormones, and antibiotics
- Whey protein from grass-fed cows
- Third-party tested by Labdoor
Cons
- Contains high amounts of potassium
- At 110 calories per serving, this Isn’t a good option for weight gain
There’s more than one type of whey protein, and they are different. Legion’s Whey+ uses whey protein isolate, which goes through an extra level of processing to remove most of the lactose, fat, and carbs from the formula. One study found that subjects who ingested whey protein hydrolysate (a type of whey isolate) compared to casein or soy protein resulted in significantly more muscle protein synthesis. (6)
Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois scores Legion’s formula 4.75 out of 5 overall for its macro ratios and because Whey+ uses milk from hormone-free and antibiotic-free cows. Her only criticism was the high potassium content. “Too much of a good thing isn’t always good, especially if you have kidney issues,” she says.
Mocha Cappuccino had the most potassium at 189 milligrams per serving, 5 percent of the National Institutes of Health’s recommended 3,400mg for cisgender men aged 19 and older. Get too much potassium, and, according to the Cleveland Clinic, your kidneys may not be able to process it all, resulting in excess levels in your blood. This can lead to heart palpitations or even a heart attack. That said, unless your electrolyte supplement is very high in potassium or you find yourself pounding coconut water often throughout the day, the amount in Legion Whey+ shouldn’t worry you.
As for the taste, our testers tried the Dutch Chocolate and Cinnamon Cereal flavors, rating them 5 out of 5 and 4.5 out of 5, respectively. “The Dutch chocolate flavor tasted great. If you’ve ever had Ovaltine before, it tasted just like that. I didn’t think this was too sweet.” None of our testers had issues with the formula’s solubility, rating it 5 out of 5.
For folks looking to add weight to their frames — yes, older adults can maintain and may be able to build lean muscle mass (7) — they might want to keep looking for a powder that’s higher in protein and calories. Overall, Legion Whey+ is a well-sourced, gimmick-free protein powder with nearly 11,000 customer reviews and a 4.7 out of 5 rating on its website.
Read our full Legion Whey+ review.
Best Organic Protein Powder for Seniors: KOS Organic Plant Protein
This protein powder packs 20 grams of plant-based protein plus various superfoods, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains enzymes to aid digestion and promote gut health.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.96
- Protein Source: Organic blend: pea protein, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed protein, chia seed
- Protein Per Serving: 20 grams
- Servings Per Container: 28 servings
- Third-Party Testing: N/A
- Available Flavors: Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Salted Caramel Coffee, Unflavored, and Vanilla
Pros
- Certified USDA Organic
- Plant-based
- No hormones, pesticides, artificial sweeteners, colors, GMOs, and antibiotics
- Contains vitamins and minerals
Cons
- High in fats and carbohydrates (can also be a pro)
- Contains just 20 grams of protein
A 2022 poll by Statista with over 7,500 respondents found that 31 percent of people opt to buy organic foods. So, we sought to find our favorite USDA organic protein powder — and KOS Organic Plant Protein won us over. KOS’s formula also has a digestive enzyme blend, contains 16 vitamins and minerals, and our testers love the taste.
Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois scores KOS’ Organic Plant Protein formula a 4.75 out of 5, primarily for its ingredient sources. “I like that KOS Organic Plant protein is a blend of five proteins — pea, flax seed, pumpkin seed, quinoa, and chia seed — making it a complete protein source. Plus, it’s free from sugar alcohol, dairy, and soy, which can cause [gastrointestinal issues] in some people.”
KOS also provides an impressive line-up of vitamins and minerals, including zinc, vitamin B12, chromium, and selenium. Anyone looking to cut back on added sugars will also like that KOS uses stevia and monk fruit extract.
Speaking of natural sweeteners, “This is one of the best vegan protein powders I’ve tried,” says one of our testers, earning KOS a 4 out of 5 for taste. “The chocolate flavor is rich, even when mixed with water.” Another tester noted that KOS’ protein came out thick when blended in the suggested 6 to 8 ounces of water, which some people may like. For a thinner consistency, our tester has two recommendations: “Toss this in a blender or just add more water bit by bit.”
KOS’s branding seems to indicate that it’s more focused on providing a health shake that contains protein versus a protein shake with health benefits, which explains the modest 20-gram serving of protein. Mind you, 20 grams is likely enough for anyone looking to meet the minimum suggested protein intake for seniors. But, anyone dieting for weight loss may not love that KOS Organic Plant Protein is higher in carbs and fat than most other picks on our list.
Read our full KOS Organic Plant Protein review.
Best Protein Powder for Seniors for Muscle Gain: Momentous Whey Protein Isolate
This whey isolate from Momentous offers 20 grams of protein with only 100 calories per serving. In addition to the protein, there's also 90mg of calcium and 115mg of potassium, as well as an enzyme blend to help aid digestion.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.89 to $2.16
- Protein Source: Grass-fed whey protein isolate
- Protein Per Serving: 20 grams
- Servings Per Container: 24 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Informed Sport Certified, NSF Certified for Sport
- Available Flavors: Unflavored, Vanilla, and Chocolate
Pros
- Strict sourcing standards
- Great for cooking and baking
- Contains a complete BCAA profile for optimal muscle gain
Cons
- Comes in only three flavors
- No added vitamins, minerals, or superfood blends
- High price per serving
You’d think our pick for the best protein powder for seniors for muscle gain — known in gym circles as hypertrophy — would be chock full of protein and calories, especially since we’ve called out other picks for containing 20 grams of protein per serving. Hear us out: Momentous’ elite solubility (our testers score it 5 out of 5), full amino acid profile, and minimalist ingredient profile make it a versatile protein for muscle growth.
Flavorless, soluble protein is easy to incorporate into daily meals to meet your protein requirements. You can blend low-fat cheese, spices, and unflavored protein together to make a cheese sauce. Various desserts call for unflavored protein. If you want more control over the flavor of your morning protein drink, unflavored whey will boost your daily protein intake without you noticing. This isn’t just a protein you drink; it’s a powder you can incorporate into every meal and recipe to keep your calorie and protein intake higher than usual.
As for the product itself, registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois score it a 4.25 out of 5, deducting points for its cost per serving and use of a proprietary blend (ProHydrolase®). “I might be a little biased, but I love that Momentous collaborates with dietitians when formulating their products. I also love that they link up-to-date research that backs their product’s ingredients.” Momentous’ commitment to quality is also evident by their sourcing standards; they work with EU dairy farmers who adhere to “strict regulations” — no artificial hormones or steroids and plenty of outdoor time for the cows.
Two of our testers, both certified trainers and competitive weightlifters, give Momentous Whey Protein Isolate a taste score of 4 out of 5 for both the Chocolate and Vanilla flavors. “The chocolate tasted like cocoa,” one tester says. “I’d most likely buy this again based on the taste.”
The lack of flavor choices and vitamins aren’t strictly “cons,” but they’re worth mentioning since so many of our other picks have plenty of additional nutrients and flavor options. The cost per serving is also high, especially considering Momentous’s bare-bones formulation.
Best Digesting Protein Powder for Seniors: Naked Nutrition Naked Egg
Naked Egg White Protein Powder only has two ingredients, and provides 25 grams of protein, 2 grams of carbs, and 110 calories per serving.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.25 to $1.54
- Protein Source: Egg white protein
- Protein Per Serving: 25 grams
- Servings Per Container: 44 servings
- Third-Party Testing: N/A
- Available Flavors: Unflavored
Pros
- Dairy- and gluten-free
- No GMOs, artificial sweeteners, or additives
- Paleo compliant
- Has 25 grams of protein
Cons
- Lower taste score
- Complaints about mixability
- Dairy-free but not vegan
The National Institute for Health estimates that about 68 percent of the world’s population has lactose malabsorption — the inability to properly digest lactose (the sugar from milk). That can be a problem since many of the popular options contain dairy-based protein sources (whey and casein). Naked Nutrition offers a dairy-free protein that contains just two ingredients: egg white protein and sunflower lecithin.
Naked Egg boasts 25 grams of protein — not surprising given how many grams of protein are in an egg — and it’s free of gluten, GMOs, and artificial sweeteners. The dairy-free formula means most people should have an easier time digesting the protein.
The major hang-ups for both customers and our team are the flavor and solubility. “It doesn’t smell like anything, but there is a slight taste to it,” says certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial team member Kate Meier, who scores Naked Egg a 3 out of 5 for taste. Despite being unflavored, Meier noted an eggy taste but a relatively smooth texture. Naked Egg earned a 3 out of 5 for solubility since Meier saw small flecks when she tried to dissolve it in water alone.
To mask both the slight egginess, Meier tossed the powder into black coffee — hot. “I put it in the blender to make it frothy — I guess you could use a frother, too — and I liked it better than when I tossed it into a homemade strawberry-banana smoothie with Lactaid. To be fair, I only added 1 scoop (half a serving) in my coffee, but it worked really well.” This was a pleasant surprise for Meier — usually a whey protein devotee.
Overall, our team likes the protein-to-calorie ratio (25 grams per 110 calories), how Naked Egg sits in the stomach, and that it contains just two ingredients. If you like to bake with your protein, unflavored Naked Egg is a solid option, though some customers left reviews complaining that the sunflower lecithin may have messed up their bakes.
If you’re in the market for a 100 percent lactose-free formula that won’t turn your stomach over, Naked Egg is a solid option.
Best Budget Protein Powder for Seniors: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein is a tried and true mainstay of fitness supplement programs.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.21 to $1.27
- Protein Source: Protein blend: whey isolate, whey concentrate, and hydrolyzed whey
- Protein Per Serving: 24 grams
- Servings Per Container: 29 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Informed Choice
- Available Flavors: Banana, Banana Cream, Chocolate, Chocolate Coconut, Chocolate Hazelnut, Chocolate Malt, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Coffee, Cookies & Cream, Delicious Strawberry, Double Rich Chocolate, Extreme Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla Crème, Fruity Cereal, Mocha Cappuccino, Rocky Road, Strawberries & Cream, Strawberry, Strawberry Banana, Vanilla Ice Cream, White Chocolate
Pros
- Affordable at $1.21 per serving
- Offers 23 flavor options
- Contains 5 grams of BCAAs
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Contains artificial sweeteners
- Uses a protein blend
Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard is an OG protein powder. It’s affordable, packs 24 grams of protein per serving, comes in 23 different flavor options, and is third-party tested. Really, there’s not a lot to pick on with Gold Standard. Registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois gives this protein a 4 out of 5 for its overall formulation.
Considering this is our budget pick, let’s focus on the price. ON offers three different sizes for purchase — 2, 5, and 10 pounds. The price per serving (PPS) listed above is based on the 2-pound (29-serving) tub. So, the more protein you buy, the cheaper the PPS. A 5-pound tub costs $1.05 per serving, and the 10-pound tub has a PPS of $0.92. So, if you end up enjoying Gold Standard, you can purchase it in bulk to save even more money.
And most signs indicate that you’ll like it. On Amazon, ON’s Gold Standard boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars with 207,859 reviews (that’s the entire population of Tallahassee, FL!). Our five testers each give Gold Standard a solubility score of 5 out of 5 and an average taste score of 4.2 out of 5.
“I’ve been using this protein for a decade and I never tire of the Double Rich Chocolate flavor,” says one of our testers. “ON dissolves great,” another tester says. “I mix it in a standard shaker bottle with a ball using almond milk.”
Bourgeois likes the macro profile and that it includes 5.5 grams of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids — leucine, isoleucine, and valine) and EAAs (essential amino acids).
But if you have a sensitive stomach, artificial sweeteners may not sit well with you; Harvard Health Publishing says they are poorly digested and can cause symptoms like diarrhea. Bourgeois would also prefer if ON were transparent about how much of each type of protein is included instead of wrapping those numbers up into a blend. Still, she’s bullish on ON, and so is our team.
Read our full Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Review.
Best Protein Powder for Seniors for Gut Health: Pure Food Plant-Based Protein Powder
With one billion colony forming units (CFUs) of probiotics, Pure Food's vegan protein powder should be your pick for more optimal gut health. This powder also contains 20 grams of protein and four grams of BCAAs.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $1.28 to $1.42
- Protein Source: Organic pea, brown rice, and hemp protein
- Protein Per Serving: 10 grams
- Servings Per Container: 28 servings
- Third-Party Testing: Yes
- Available Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Contains probiotics
- No additives or artificial flavors
Cons
- Only 10 grams of protein per serving
- You’ll probably need to order this more than once a month
- Available in just two flavors
The research on the gut microbiome is emerging and fluid. If you want to know how to improve your gut health, BarBend author Gabrielle Fundaro, who holds a Ph.D. in Human Nutrition, says to eat more vegetables, dietary fiber, and whole grains, and to diversify your food choices. She also says there’s merit to probiotic supplements — which is why we chose Pure Food’s Plant-Based Protein Powder. It contains 1 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacillus coagulans, which was shown to improve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. (8)
We also like that this formula is free of artificial flavors and is vegan, making it an inclusive option for most people. The cost per serving, which maxes out at $1.42, is on the low end of our list.
That said, we want to point out a handful of potential hang-ups. First, a single serving of this protein contains only 10 grams of protein. For reference, the standard serving size for protein powder is about 30 grams and dips to between 20 to 25 grams of protein. You’ll need to double-up servings of Pure Food to hit that range, reducing the servings per bag to 14 and increasing your price per serving(s) to $2.84. Double-scoop Pure Foods each time you use it, and you’ll need to re-order a bag halfway through the month.
“I give Pure Food Plant Protein a 3.75 out of 5 for its formulation”, says registered dietitian Chelsea Rae Bourgeois. “It scored high marks for its ingredient list, but I shaved off some points for its lack of nutrition outside of protein and iron.” Bourgeois thinks it’s a fine product but suggests blending it with other foods to bulk up its nutritional profile.
To sum it up: The relative lack of flavor choices, small serving size, and low protein levels won’t appeal to everyone — but if you’re primarily interested in pairing protein with probiotics, this is a solid pick. It has 1 billion CFUs of a studied bacteria, contains no gut-irritating artificial sweeteners, and is pretty affordable.
Read our full Pure Food Plant-Based Protein review.
Best Pre-Made Protein Shake for Seniors: Premier Protein Shake
Premier Protein Shakes offer a delicious and nutritious option with 30 grams of protein, only 1 gram of sugar, and 24 vitamins and minerals. Rated 5 out of 5 stars for taste, they are an excellent choice for those who don't want to compromise on flavor while meeting their protein intake goals.
Specs
- Price Per Serving: $2.37 to $2.49
- Protein Source: Milk protein concentrate
- Protein Per Serving: 30 grams
- Servings Per Container: 12 servings
- Third-Party Testing: No
- Available Flavors: Banana, Cafe Latte, Cake Batter, Caramel, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Cookie Dough, Cookies & Cream, Mint Chocolate, Peaches & Cream, Pumpkin Spice, Root Beer Float, Strawberry, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla, Winter Mint Chocolate
Pros
- Has 168,000 5-star reviews on Amazon
- 30 grams of protein per pre-made bottle
- Contains 24 vitamins and minerals
- 17 flavor options
Cons
- Not third-party tested
- Very expensive
- Contains artificial ingredients
The Premier Protein Shake is a ready-to-drink supplement boasting 30 grams of protein per serving, 24 vitamins and minerals, 17 flavors, and a gluten-free, keto-friendly, kosher formula (say that three times fast). It’s the second most expensive pick on our list and contains some less-than-desirable ingredients, but our testers and expert reviewers think it’s one of the best protein shakes available — and one of the most convenient to take on the go.
Let’s start with the macros. You’re getting 30 grams of protein per serving — more than any supplement on this list — with 160 calories. It’s not the leanest shake, but it’s still low in calories and high in protein. One of our testers scores Premier’s overall formula 4 out of 5, docking a point for including filler ingredients like sunflower and soybean oil, sucralose, and cellulose gum. Premier also offers 25 percent of your recommended daily intake for vitamins like Vitamins C, B6, A, K, and E.
Premier scored well in the taste category, earning a 5 out of 5 from one tester who tried the Chocolate and Vanilla flavors. We even gave Premier Protein the Best-Tasting Protein Shake superlative on our best protein shakes for weight loss round-up.
The shake is thicker than you’re probably used to, especially if you regularly drink protein powder mixed with water. Whether you want a thick shake or not depends on your preference, but some people find that the creaminess gives milkshake vibes to satisfy a sweet tooth. One important call-out: Keep these refrigerated. Unlike protein powder, ready-to-drink shakes need to stay cool.
Benefits of Protein Powders for Seniors
No supplement is a replacement for consistent training and a nutritious diet. However, you can pair protein supplements with healthier living for a few key benefits: More dietary protein, muscle maintenance, and satiety.
- Increased protein intake: Research suggests that seniors should consume up to 0.9 grams of protein per pound of body weight. (2) That comes out to 162 grams of protein — nearly 2 pounds of chicken breast worth — for a senior citizen weighing 180 pounds. Protein shakes are a convenient and affordable way to consume more protein without having to cook another meal or shell out $15 for a burrito bowl at Chipotle.
- Helps maintain muscle: A 2016 meta-analysis highlighting a group of studies conducted on middle-aged adults (45 to 60 years old) found that consuming higher protein meals and more protein overall resulted in higher lean body mass, less abdominal fat, and the ability to maintain muscle while losing weight. (9)
- It fills you up: A 2020 study published in the Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome concluded that a high-protein diet (1.07 to 1.60 grams per kilogram of body weight) increased satiety (the feeling of fullness). (10)
How Much Do the Best Protein Powders for Seniors Cost?
Based on this list, the best protein shakes for seniors will cost you from $1.21 per serving (ON’s Gold Standard Whey) up to $2.60 (Ritual Essential Daily Shake 50+). Ingredient quality, branding, and the type of shake (ready-to-drink vs. powder) primarily dictate price. We consider all of these picks great options, so how much you pay depends on personal preference.
Note: If you see more than one price, that’s because the brand offers a subscribe & save option in addition to a one-time purchase option.
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Protein Powders for Seniors
Older adults may require slightly more protein than younger adults, but a quality protein is a quality protein. Regardless of your age or assigned gender at birth, you want to focus on four main considerations: the source, price, taste, and ingredients.
Protein Source
Protein typically comes from dairy (whey and casein), plants (brown rice, peas, quinoa, soy), and eggs. Whey and the best casein proteins are typically high in protein and lower in calories; plant proteins have more fiber and are vegan- and vegetarian-friendly; egg protein has a similar macro profile to whey protein but is generally easier to digest since it is free of lactose (especially if you’re lactose intolerant or have other sensitivities).
All of those protein sources are legit. However, we suggest opting for third-party tested formulas (almost all of our picks above are), and powders/shakes that contain at least 20 grams of protein per serving.
Cost
How much you spend on a protein powder usually depends on the quality of its ingredients and whether it has extra nutritional benefits (superfood blends, probiotics, vitamins and minerals, etc.).
While some companies make premium and ultra-cheap options, the cheapest option on our list is $1.21 per serving; the most expensive is $2.60. Expect to pay between $35 and $50 per tub of protein, with pricier options inching closer to $60.
Taste
No protein powder is going to take your tastebuds on a culinary adventure, but you needn’t settle for a chalky, gag-inducing supplement. Plenty, if not all, of the options on our list range from I’d-drink-that-every-day to I’ve-had-better-but-not-bad.
You can always alter the taste by mixing protein powder with different liquids, blending it into a smoothie, or cooking/baking with it. Still, you want a tasty base.
Ingredient Label
Our team of testers and experts prefers fewer ingredients that we can easily identify. Ultra-processed foods are linked to adverse health outcomes, and artificial sweeteners can cause unpleasant digestive issues like diarrhea. (3)
This isn’t to say you have to avoid artificial ingredients. Heck, some of our picks above contain them. But it’s 2024, and plenty of companies are producing clean protein powders, with little to no artificial ingredients in their products.
Best Protein Powders for Seniors FAQ
What kind of protein powder is best for seniors?
The primary reason to take a protein supplement is to increase your protein intake. You shouldn’t take a protein powder to fix any other deficiencies in nutrients like calcium, iron, or other vitamins (though many protein powders do offer doses of those nutrients). While we’ve gathered a bunch of the best protein powders for seniors above, a professional can help you find the best product for your body.
Is whey or plant protein better for seniors?
One study we reviewed indicated that whey and pea protein (a commonly used plant protein source) were equally effective for building muscle. Whether you take whey or plant protein comes down to preference. Try a plant-based protein if you’re vegan or have trouble digesting dairy. If you want a lower-calorie, higher-protein formula, opt for whey. (4)
Can a 70-year-old take protein powder?
Yes. People don’t really need to consume protein powder, but it is a convenient and affordable way to increase one’s protein intake. And research shows that senior adults should consume adequate protein to combat their reduced ability to metabolize it. The journal Nutrients suggests that seniors consume between 0.54 to 0.9 grams per pound of body weight. (2)
That can be tough to get in on your diet of whole foods alone — so whether it’s in a meal replacement shake or a simple smoothie, protein powder can help a lot.
References
- Bauer J, Biolo G, Cederholm T, Cesari M, Cruz-Jentoft AJ, Morley JE, Phillips S, Sieber C, Stehle P, Teta D, Visvanathan R, Volpi E, Boirie Y. Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: a position paper from the PROT-AGE Study Group. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2013 Aug;14(8):542-59. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2013.05.021. Epub 2013 Jul 16. PMID: 23867520.
- Baum JI, Kim IY, Wolfe RR. Protein Consumption and the Elderly: What Is the Optimal Level of Intake? Nutrients. 2016 Jun 8;8(6):359. doi: 10.3390/nu8060359. PMID: 27338461; PMCID: PMC4924200.
- Lane M M, Gamage E, Du S, Ashtree D N, McGuinness A J, Gauci S et al. Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes: umbrella review of epidemiological meta-analyses BMJ 2024; 384 :e077310 doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-077310
- Babault N, Païzis C, Deley G, Guérin-Deremaux L, Saniez MH, Lefranc-Millot C, Allaert FA. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Jan 21;12(1):3. doi: 10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5. PMID: 25628520; PMCID: PMC4307635.
- ter Borg S, Verlaan S, Hemsworth J, Mijnarends DM, Schols JM, Luiking YC, de Groot LC. Micronutrient intakes and potential inadequacies of community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review. Br J Nutr. 2015 Apr 28;113(8):1195-206. doi: 10.1017/S0007114515000203. Epub 2015 Mar 30. PMID: 25822905; PMCID: PMC4531469.
- Tang JE, Moore DR, Kujbida GW, Tarnopolsky MA, Phillips SM. Ingestion of whey hydrolysate, casein, or soy protein isolate: effects on mixed muscle protein synthesis at rest and following resistance exercise in young men. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2009 Sep;107(3):987-92. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00076.2009. Epub 2009 Jul 9. PMID: 19589961.
- Voulgaridou G, Papadopoulou SD, Spanoudaki M, Kondyli FS, Alexandropoulou I, Michailidou S, Zarogoulidis P, Matthaios D, Giannakidis D, Romanidou M, Papadopoulou SK. Increasing Muscle Mass in Elders through Diet and Exercise: A Literature Review of Recent RCTs. Foods. 2023 Mar 13;12(6):1218. doi: 10.3390/foods12061218. PMID: 36981144; PMCID: PMC10048759.
- Gupta AK, Maity C. Efficacy and safety of Bacillus coagulans LBSC in irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, interventional, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study [CONSORT Compliant]. Medicine (Baltimore). 2021 Jan 22;100(3):e23641. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000023641. PMID: 33545934; PMCID: PMC7837859.
- Deer RR, Volpi E. Protein intake and muscle function in older adults. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2015 May;18(3):248-53. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000162. PMID: 25807346; PMCID: PMC4394186.
- Moon J, Koh G. Clinical Evidence and Mechanisms of High-Protein Diet-Induced Weight Loss. J Obes Metab Syndr. 2020 Sep 30;29(3):166-173. doi: 10.7570/jomes20028. PMID: 32699189; PMCID: PMC7539343.
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