Shake Up Your Protein Game: Exploring Different Liquid Bases for Protein Shakes

We’re not sure if you know this but when it comes to crafting the perfect protein shake, the liquid base you choose is just as important as the protein itself. Not only does it affect the flavor and texture, but it also impacts the nutritional content of your shake.

So we decided this was the perfect opportunity to really break down the most popular liquid options, to help you tailor your protein shakes to your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Dairy Milk
Almond Milk
Soy Milk
Coconut Milk
Cashew Milk
Orange Juice
Apple Juice
Pineapple Juice
Tomato Juice
Carrot Juice
Beet Juice
Water

Dairy Milk

When it comes to shakes, cow’s milk or dairy milk is the classic choice for a reason - dairy milk is rich in protein, providing about 8 grams per cup and is also a great source of calcium and vitamin D. Meaning, if you’re looking to build muscle or improve your bone health, the high levels of protein and calorie content of whole milk can be the answer. That said, if you're calorie-conscious or lactose intolerant, you might want to explore other options.

Almond Milk

Almond milk is a favorite for anyone on a low-calorie or dairy-free diet. Sure, it’s lower in protein and calories compared to dairy milk, with only about 1-2 grams of protein per cup. But it’s loaded with calcium and vitamin D, making it a bone-friendly option that’s light on the stomach.

Soy Milk

Soy milk is probably the closest to dairy in terms of protein content, offering about 6-8 grams per cup. It's also a good source of potassium and is naturally rich in isoflavones, which have been linked to various health benefits including improved heart health and potentially lower risks of certain cancers.

Coconut Milk

If we’re talking texture, you can’t leave out coconut milk. It’s rich and creamy, with a distinct flavor that pairs well with tropical fruits. It’s also higher in fat, particularly saturated fat, which can give your shake a smooth texture. It’s worth noting that coconut milk is lower in protein and higher in calories, so it might be more suitable for those looking to add healthy fats to their diet rather than protein.

Cashew Milk

Similar to almond milk, cashew milk is low in calories and protein but offers a creamier texture, which makes your shakes feel more indulgent. It's also typically fortified with vitamins like A, D, and B12, along with minerals such as calcium, making it a nutritious, dairy-free option.

Orange Juice

Using orange juice as a base can add a kick of vitamin C to your protein shakes, enhancing iron absorption from plant-based proteins. It’s naturally high in sugars, so it provides quick energy but watch the portion size to avoid excess calories. Just make sure it’s not made from concentrate.

Apple Juice

Apple juice offers a sweet but surprisingly mild base that pairs well with protein flavors. It’s rich in vitamin C and potassium but like orange juice, it’s also high in sugar. Fun fact: apple juice can be a good post-workout option for quick carbohydrate replenishment.

Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice not only adds a tropical flair to shakes but also contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help with inflammation and digestion. It's as sugary as other fruit juices, so moderation is key, especially if you're watching your sugar intake.

Carrot Juice

Carrot juice is low in calories and high in vitamin A, which is great for skin health. One you may not immediately think of, its earthy flavor actually complements neutral-flavored proteins well. Not to mention the amazing colors!

Tomato Juice

Tomato juice is an unconventional but savory option for protein shakes. It’s low in calories and rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart health and cancer-preventive properties. Tomato juice works well in vegetable-based or savory protein shakes.

Beet Juice

Another interesting veggie choice: beet juice has the ability to improve blood flow and endurance, thanks to its high nitrate content. It has an earthy flavor and a vibrant color that makes for an appealing shake.

Water

And finally, let’s talk about water because, sometimes, simplicity is key. Water is the ultimate calorie-free option. It doesn’t impact flavor, so won't detract from the pure taste of your protein powder either. Ideal for anyone who wants a quick protein fix without extra calories or sugar.

Making Your Choice with the Help of an Electric Shaker Bottle

Choosing the right liquid base for your protein shake will obviously depend on your dietary goals, allergies, and flavor preferences. But whether you’re looking for something creamy, fruity, or just straightforward, an electric shaker bottle can revolutionize the way you prepare your shakes. Here’s how:

Consistent Mixing

One of the primary benefits of a good electric shaker bottle is its ability to mix protein powders thoroughly with any liquid base. Older wire ball shaker bottles often leave clumps, especially with thicker or more viscous liquids like coconut milk or cashew milk. Whereas an electric shaker uses a powerful motor to create a vortex that mixes the contents evenly, ensuring smooth, drinkable results every time without any gritty texture.

Versatility with Various Liquids

Electric shaker bottles are designed to handle a range of viscosities, making them ideal for mixing not only water and dairy milk but also thicker plant-based milks and even juices. Whether you're using a light liquid like almond milk or a denser one like beet juice, the powerful motor ensures that the protein powder is fully integrated into the liquid, avoiding any sediment at the bottom or froth at the top. Just make sure you don’t use solid foods, so as not to damage the blade.

Preservation of Protein Integrity

When mixing protein powders, it’s important to avoid over-processing, which can sometimes denature proteins. The soft x-blade technology in our electric shaker bottles mix quickly and efficiently, typically within a few seconds, which helps maintain the protein’s structural integrity. This quick mixing process ensures that the nutritional quality of the protein is preserved, providing you with all the amino acids and benefits the powder has to offer.

Convenience and Portability

Electric shaker bottles are portable and rechargeable, making them easy to use anywhere - from the gym to the office, or even while traveling. This convenience means you can enjoy a perfectly mixed shake with any liquid base, even if you’re away from your kitchen blender.

Easy to Clean

Cleaning up after making a protein shake can sometimes be a hassle, especially if the protein powder sticks to the sides of a lesser brand’s manual shaker. Thankfully, our electric shaker bottles come with detachable bases that make cleaning easy. Simply remove the motor base and wash the remaining parts like a regular drinking bottle.

APR 29, 2024