15 High-Protein Smoothies To Keep You Full All Day Long
And they take little to no effort to make!
Protein is essential for your health, and plays an important role in immunity, bone health, and cell repair, to name a few. This mighty macronutrient "works to repair muscle cells, and in the process, the muscle gets stronger and more built,” says Julia Shuff, RDN, with Teladoc Health. But it isn't just for those who want to bulk—protein keeps you full longer, which is why high-protein smoothies are a great way to start your day.
“When you consume protein, it boosts your satiety and signals to your body to reduce the level of the hunger hormone called ghrelin,” explains Carissa Galloway, RDN, a Premier Protein nutrition consultant and personal trainer. If you often find yourself reaching for a snack by mid-morning, a high-protein smoothie is a great way to start your day.
To build the perfect high-protein smoothie, you want to include no more than 25 to 30 grams of protein, since your body can only absorb and effectively use that much at a time, says Galloway. And of course, whole fruits and veggies are essential. You'll also want to use a high-quality protein powder and add a dash of turmeric are also a great additions for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, she adds.
Ready for more steady energy throughout your day? Grab your blender and try one of these 15 tasty and nutrient-dense smoothies recommended by nutritionists and sourced from the best blogs.
Meet the experts: Julia Shuff, RDN, is a nutritionist with Teladoc Health. Carissa Galloway, RDN, is a Premier Protein nutrition consultant and personal trainer.
Flaxseed Protein Shake
Protein: 22 g
Why it rocks: Flaxseed, the star of this recipe, is rich in fiber and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acid. And made with just five ingredients, this is one easy breakfast smoothie you can throw together before rushing out the door.
Apple Banana Smoothie
Protein: 12 g
Why it rocks: Have extra apples and bananas lying around? Use them to make this smoothie. Apples are full of vitamin C and soluble fiber, so they can give your immune system a boost and keep you regular.
Mango Spinach Smoothie
Protein: 23 g
Why it rocks: This vegan smoothie packs all the flavor of mangoes and coconut so you never taste the secret ingredient—spinach. (Though we still love this dark leafy green because it packs a ton of potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamins!)
Matcha Strawberry Smoothie
Protein: 15 g
Why it rocks: The antioxidant-packed superfood, matcha, makes a great feature in this vegan smoothie. You can also skip your morning cup of java, thanks to the caffeine found in this concentrated green tea powder.
Banana Mocha Smoothie
Protein: 19 g
Why it rocks: If you’re in the mood for chunky monkey ice cream, this smoothie is a great healthy swap. Bonus: It's also packed with anti-inflammatory spices like cinnamon and cardamom and a spoonful of cacao nibs.
Almond Cherry Smoothie
Protein: 11 g
Why it rocks: This vegan smoothie is loaded with antioxidants from frozen cherries and spinach. And you can make this your own by adding flaxseeds, Greek yogurt, or vanilla protein powder for an extra protein boost.
Layered Banana Split Smoothie
Protein: 14 g
Why it rocks: Perfect as a post-workout snack or fun breakfast, this smoothie hits you with the three classic flavors of banana, chocolate, and strawberry. It's basically a dessert, and you won't feel guilty indulging in this one.
Pretty in Pink Peach Smoothie
Protein: 16 g
Why it rocks: Made with five simple ingredients, this easy peach smoothie has the perfect amount of sweetness from ripe peaches and berries, and it gets its protein punch from Greek yogurt.
Strawberry Greek Yogurt Smoothie
Protein: 14 g
Why it rocks: If you’re in the mood for a strawberry milkshake without the guilt, look no further. With just frozen strawberries, Greek yogurt, stevia and ice, this super quick smoothie provides you the most creamy, dreamy texture.
Healthy Hot Chocolate Smoothie
Protein: 26 g
Why it rocks: This low-calorie, vegan smoothie is a perfect way to start your day or to wrap up a workout. And if you want a warm version, just heat up the milk in a saucepan over medium heat for five minutes, then blend and enjoy!
Carrot Cake Smoothie
Protein: 24 g
Why it rocks: This creamy smoothie tastes like carrot cake. That’s a win in our book.
Cocoa Almond Protein Smoothie
Protein: 27 g
Why it rocks: This chocolate almond banana flavor combination can’t be beat. Made with Greek yogurt and almond butter, this recipe is full of whole food ingredients and no protein powders.
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Protein: 28 g
Why it rocks: With just four ingredients (plus ice!), this smoothie is thick and creamy, thanks to ingredients like Greek yogurt and peanut butter.
Dragon Fruit Smoothie
Protein: 17 g
Why it rocks: This refreshing smoothie gets its vibrant magenta color from frozen dragon fruit and a boost of added protein from riced cauliflower.
Breakfast Coffee Smoothie
Protein: 18 g
Why it rocks: This delicious smoothie has all your favorite breakfast flavors like oats, banana, and coffee blended into one. Say hello to your new burst of morning energy.
Lauryn Higgins is a freelance journalist whose work focuses primarily on public health. Her work tracking the coronavirus for The New York Times was part of a team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service. When she's not working she loves spending time in her kitchen and garden, taking barre classes and cuddling with the love of her life, her 90-pound bernedoodle, Gus. Her work has also appeared in NPR, Salon, Teen Vogue and Well + Good.
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