Protein shakesare meant to give you a nutritious boost.

For what to buy instead, don’t miss12 Best Protein Shakes in 2024, According to a Dietitian.

The “protein plus” could easily refer to the 49 grams of sugar packed into each bottle.

unhealthiest protein shakes collage of three bottles on a red background

Photos: The brands. Design: Eat This, Not That!

To put that into perspective, that’s equivalent to 1/4 cup of sugar.

And if that’s not enough to give you pause, the shake also clocks in at 400 calories.

With a whopping 39 grams of sugar, this is one protein shake to avoid.

bolthouse farms protien plus coffee

Bolthouse Farms

Notably,caramel coloringproduced with ammonia may contain contaminants linked to cancer in animal studies.

Choosing protein shakes with fewer artificial ingredients and more natural options may better support your health.

It also has monoglycerides and diglycerides which are fatty acids that are added to improve longevity and texture.

Nesquick Protein Power Strawberry Protein Milk Beverage

Nesquick

However, the ingredient list tells a different story.

Pure Protein Salted Caramel Protein Shake

Pure Protein Salted Caramel Protein Shakeis anything but pure protein.

Beyond that, there are two artificial sweeteners, sucralose and acesulfame potassium.

Muscle Milk Pro Advanced Nutrition Protein Shake

Muscle Milk

For example,researchhas linked long-term use of artificial sweeteners to gut microbiome disruption and other health concerns.

12 Best Protein Shakes in 2024, According to a Dietitian

GNC Total Lean Lean Shake 25 - Coconut Caramel

GNC

SlimFast Original Chocolatey Royale

SlimFast

Isopure 32g Protein Drink Alpine Punch

Isopure

Pure Protein Salted Caramel Protein Shake

Pure Protein

fairlife core power chocolate shake

Fairlife

boost cinnabon shake

Boost

Bolthouse Farms Protein Plus Banana Honey Almond Butter

Bolthouse Farms