Maintaining strong, healthy muscles is important as we age and our bone and muscle mass gradually decline. Strength training and mobility activities engage these muscles and eating a balanced diet rich in protein can help build new muscles and maintain their power, improving overall health and mobility.
Protein drinks have become a simple and effective way for people to meet their daily protein goals, especially those with busy schedules or less appetite.
Here’s our curated list of protein drinks from convenient store-bought options to easy homemade recipes:
- Ensure Max Protein
- Premier Protein Shakes
- Orgain Organic Protein-Plant-Based Drinks
- Fairlife Core Power Protein Shakes
- Homemade Greek yogurt smoothie
- Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Shake
- Homemade protein hot chocolate
Senior living options, like the ones offered at our Bella Mar Royal Palm Beach community, can help support older adult’s health journeys. Visit us to learn how we tailor wellness plans to each resident’s unique goals.
Why a Protein Drink?
Building and maintaining muscle mass gets harder with age because of the body’s reduced ability to process protein, which is why older adults often need more protein than younger people.
Protein supports muscle repair, energy generation, and immune function and can help reduce the risk of falls by improving strength and stability.
The convenience of a protein drink is a game-changer. These ready-to-go drink options or easily mixed powders provide a quick boost of high-quality nutrients, so that busy or less-active people can still meet their dietary requirements. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing people to personalize with flavors, fruits, or other add-ons like coffee.
Ensure Max Protein
A tried-and-true favorite among older adults, Ensure Max Protein offers 30 grams of protein per bottle, along with 25 essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin D for bone health. It’s low in sugar and tastes delicious, with flavors like Milk Chocolate, Café Mocha, and French Vanilla.
It’s a fantastic grab-and-go option for a post-workout snack. Keep a few bottles chilled in the fridge and you’re good to go!
Premier Protein Shakes
Premier Protein is another popular choice, offering 30 grams of protein, only 1 gram of sugar, and a variety of flavors like Vanilla, Caramel, and Bananas & Cream.
The shake’s high protein content makes it ideal for muscle repair and maintenance.
For an added boost, you can customize any shake to your liking. Blend the Premier Protein Vanilla flavor with half a banana and a handful of spinach for an easy, nutrient-packed smoothie.
Orgain Organic Protein Plant-Based Shakes
For people seeking a vegan protein option, we’ve got you covered! Orgain’s plant-based protein shakes are an excellent pick. With 20 grams of protein derived from peas, brown rice, and chia seeds, these shakes cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing nutrition.
It’s made with organic ingredients, free of soy, dairy, and gluten, accommodating a variety of dietary needs.
Drinking any protein shake cold is always an option, but try warming up their Vanilla Bean flavor for a cozy drink on cooler days.
Fairlife Core Power Protein Shakes
Fairlife Core Power shakes are crafted with real milk for a rich, creamy texture, delivering 26 grams of protein per serving.
These shakes also include electrolytes, making them a fantastic option for post-workout recovery, and lactose-free, for sensitive stomachs.
Homemade Greek Yogurt Smoothie
Nothing satisfies a craving like a homemade smoothie. For a protein-packed option, blend together:
- 1 cup of Greek yogurt
- ½ cup of a milk of your choosing (plant-based, cow, or goat)
- 1 tbsp of honey
- Your favorite fruit (fresh or frozen) such as berries or banana
- Add a tsp of chia seeds for additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
This customizable smoothie is a great source of protein, fiber, and probiotics for gut health.
Muscle Milk Pro Series Protein Shake
Muscle Milk Pro Series provides 40 grams of protein in a single bottle and is fortified with 20 vitamins and minerals. It’s great for older adults focusing on strength-training exercises or recovering from illness because its high protein content aids muscle recovery.
For some added volume, pair it with a light breakfast of your choosing (Greek yogurt, egg whites, or oatmeal) for a well-rounded, protein-rich morning meal.
Homemade Protein Hot Chocolate
Supporting muscle health doesn’t mean you can’t indulge your cravings. For a filling alternative to traditional hot chocolate, some added protein can provide this cozy drink with an energy boost.
Mix 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder of your choosing, (like one with collagen for added joint support) with a cup of warmed milk and whisk until smooth. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream.
Finding Support in Senior Living
Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle isn’t just about what you eat. It’s also about your overall wellness, environment, and daily habits. Creating opportunities for regular exercise, balanced meals, and social connection goes a long way in promoting healthy aging.
That’s where assisted living and short-term stays can make a real difference. They provide tailored nutrition plans, access to fitness programs, and community support to help older adults thrive in their wellness journeys.
With expert care and guidance, residents can enjoy an active lifestyle, fostering independence wherever possible.
Setting the Stage for Healthy Aging
Protein drinks are more than convenient, satisfying snacks. They’re a functional and versatile tool for older adults looking to maintain or build muscle mass while staying active or promoting recovery.
The options are endless; whether it’s a grab-and-go option or a homemade smoothie, a protein-enriched diet can make a difference in supporting your overall health and vitality.
If you or a loved one is exploring a healthier, supportive lifestyle, senior living options like short-term stays or assisted living offer an effective solution.
After all, aging healthfully and happily is a team effort, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Connect with our Bella Mar Royal Palm Beach team to schedule a tour of our senior living communities.
